Chamba Rumal

The distinctive group of embroideries known as Chamba rumals originate in the Pahari kingdoms of the Himalayan foothills, now the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Their range of styles suggests that not all of them were made in the city of Chamba but also in other urban centers such as Kangra and Basholi. Their fine drawing and execution indicate that they were designed by artists and produced professionally. Embroidered in floss silk on fine muslin in long satin stitch, rumals were used to cover food on festive occasions, therefore most of them feature wedding scenes and incorporate blue Krishna figures in their design.