Question

Which of the following is not a Phulkari ?

• A. Chope
• B. Tilpatra
• C. Suber
• D. Lep

Hint:

Classic Punjabi Phulkari varieties include Chope, Suber, Bagh, and Tilpatra. "Lep" belongs to the Kantha embroidery heritage of Bengal, making it the odd one out.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Traditional Indian embroideries are characterized by unique regional styles, motifs, stitches, and base fabrics.
Phulkari is the traditional, vibrant embroidery style of Punjab, characterized by the use of untwisted silk threads (pat) on coarse handwoven cotton fabric (khaddar).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the terms listed in the options to identify their regional classifications:
- Chope: This is a specific type of Phulkari characterized by double-running cross-stitch embroidery. It is traditionally gifted to a bride by her maternal grandmother during wedding rituals.
- Tilpatra: Literally translating to "sesame seeds," this is a simpler variety of Phulkari where small dot-like patterns are embroidered on the fabric, resembling scattered sesame seeds.
- Suber: This is a red Phulkari with a distinct yellow border and central medallion, worn by the bride during specific wedding ceremonies.
- Lep: This is not a type of Phulkari.
Instead, Lep is a traditional quilt-like embroidered textile originating from Bengal, closely related to the Kantha embroidery style.
It is constructed by layering old saris or dhotis and stitching them together with running stitches.
Therefore, Lep is the correct choice as it is not a Phulkari.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The textile that is not a Phulkari is Lep.