Phulkari as Heritage: Exploring Female Awareness of Traditional Needlework

The rich and diverse heritage of Indian culture finds expressive embodiment not only in its music, dance, and rituals but also in its intricate embroidery traditions. These embroidery patterns—each regionally distinct and historically embedded—serve as living symbols of cultural identity, gendered labor, and aesthetic expression. This study was designed to assess the level of awareness and cultural familiarity regarding traditional embroidery styles among female participants from the states of Punjab and Haryana, two regions with particularly vibrant needlework legacies. A structured survey methodology was employed to collect quantitative data from a stratified sample of women belonging to various age groups and socio-economic backgrounds. The instrument included questions aimed at evaluating participants' recognition, understanding, and cultural association with prominent embroidery. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and cross-tabulation to identify patterns of awareness across demographics. The results revealed that respondents across all age categories exhibited a moderate to high level of awareness regarding traditional embroidery forms. Notably, Phulkari emerged as the most widely recognized and culturally resonant embroidery type among participants, signifying its enduring popularity and strong regional identity, particularly in Punjab. These findings underscore the persistent relevance of traditional textile arts among contemporary women, while also highlighting the potential for cultural preservation and revival through targeted educational and promotional initiatives.