The story
Chamba rumals are square cloths embroidered with double-satin stitch so the picture looks the same on both sides. The craft flourished in the 18th and 19th centuries under the Chamba rulers, with Pahari miniature painters drawing the outlines and women of the court embroidering them. Rumals were used to cover gifts and offerings at weddings and temples. Today a small number of women artisans keep the craft alive, supported by training programmes and craft fairs.
In numbers
Chamba Rumal is a registered geographical indication (handicraft) of Himachal Pradesh.
IP India — Registration Details of Geographical Indications
GI tag
- Chamba RumalApplication no. GI Application No. 79IP India — Registration Details of Geographical Indications
- Chamba ChappalApplication no. GI Application No. 614IP India — Registration Details of Geographical Indications
- Chamba Metal CraftApplication no. GI Application No. 862IP India — Registration Details of Geographical Indications
Ways in for a newcomer
- Online sales of GI-authentic rumals and framed pieces
- Training centres for young embroiderers
- Design collaborations for stoles and home décor
- Craft tourism in Chamba town
Problems the cluster faces
- Very few skilled artisans
- Slow, time-consuming work with low pay
- Cheap printed imitations
- Remote location and limited buyers
Businesses to start here
Zari and Silk Embroidery →Handloom and Handicrafts Retail Shop →Local Handicraft and Toy Making School →