নকশি কথা: a platform for nakshi art and artisans

Abstract

Nakshi Katha is a kind of embroidered quilt. Nakshi art work is done on clothing attire like kameez, saree, shawl and punjabi, it is also seen in bedsheets, light wrap etc. In the past it was made from old cloth, discarded sarees, dhotis, and lungis. kathas range from utilitarian quilts to exquisitely embroidered heirlooms. It is one of the oldest and notable handicrafts to represent the country's cultural heritage. Around 300 entrepreneurs and 4000 families are involved in making Nakshi kantha. Women of different places like Jamalpur, Bogra, Rajshahi, Faridpur, Jessore and Chittagong stitch the kathas with needle and thread. The women of the villages put their heart and soul to create the artistic patterns and design known as motifs. Jamalpur is one of the famous cities for Nakshi katha, Katha stitches and Nakshi related products and crafts. But day by day the crafts are in threat, the artisans are facing financial constraints and they don't even have a proper place to work, sell or showcase their work. Very few people know about the craft and appraise it. So, Bangladesh Handloom Board proposed a project to preserve Nakshi handloom and handicraft products under Melandaho Upazila of Jamalpur district. It will also empower and create employment opportunities, for both men and women as well as 'Nakshi' (design) entrepreneurs. Nakshi kantha has great demand outside the country too. The project will generate opportunities to show local and foreign visitors the cultural heritage of our country. It will also initiate its own market for these products which shall provide the artisans with fair prices.