Abho
Abho is a traditional textile art form that originated in the Kutch region of Gujarat, India. It is a type of embroidery that is characterized by its intricate, geometric patterns and vibrant colors. Abho is created by stitching together small pieces of fabric using a variety of embroidery techniques, including mirror work, chain stitch, and satin stitch.
The word Abho is derived from the Kutchi word for "mirror", which reflects the importance of mirror work in this textile art form. Mirror work is an essential part of Abho, and is used to create a shimmering effect that catches the eye and adds to the overall beauty of the piece.
Abho is typically created using bright, bold colors that are inspired by the natural surroundings of the Kutch region. These colors include shades of red, orange, yellow, and green, as well as more muted tones of blue, brown, and gray. The embroidery thread used in Abho is often made from silk or cotton, and is carefully selected to match the colors of the fabric.
Abho is traditionally created by women in the Kutch region, who learn the art form from their mothers and grandmothers. The embroidery is often done in groups, with women working together to create large, complex pieces of art. Abho is a labor-intensive process that requires a great deal of skill and patience, and it can take months or even years to complete a single piece.
Abho is used to create a wide variety of textile products, including clothing, bags, wall hangings, and other decorative items. It is often used to create traditional garments such as cholis (blouses), ghagras (skirts), and dupattas (scarves), which are worn by women in the Kutch region during weddings and other celebrations.
Abho has gained international recognition in recent years, and is now used by top designers and manufacturers in the fashion industry. Some of the top users of Abho include designers like Manish Malhotra, Sabyasachi Mukherjee, and Anita Dongre, who have incorporated the traditional embroidery into their modern designs. These designers have helped to bring Abho to a wider audience, and have helped to preserve this important part of Indian textile heritage.
One of the top manufacturers of Abho is Khamir, a non-profit organization that works to promote and preserve the traditional crafts of the Kutch region. Khamir works with local artisans to provide them with training, resources, and market access, and helps to connect them with buyers and designers from around the world. Khamir also operates a retail store in the city of Bhuj, where visitors can purchase handmade Abho products and other traditional crafts.
Another top manufacturer of Abho is Asha Handicrafts, a fair trade organization that works with artisans from across India to create handmade products for the global market. Asha Handicrafts works with Abho artisans to create a variety of textile products, including clothing, home decor, and accessories, and helps to provide them with fair wages, safe working conditions, and other benefits.
In conclusion, Abho is a traditional textile art form that is characterized by its intricate embroidery, vibrant colors, and use of mirror work. It is created by women in the Kutch region of Gujarat, India, and is used to create a wide variety of textile products. Abho has gained international recognition in recent years, and is now used by top designers and manufacturers in the fashion industry. Top users and manufacturers of Abho include Khamir and Asha Handicrafts, organizations that work to promote and preserve traditional crafts and provide artisans with fair wages and working conditions.
Abho
A loose shirt-like garment, worn by women mostly in Gujarat and Rajasthan. The garment was generally worn with short, wide sleeves, open at the neck, loose-fitting on the upper part and really flared in its skirt. Often decorated with embroidery and mirror-glass work.