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Who we are
Our Journey: From WhatsApp to the World
Our story began humbly through WhatsApp Messenger in 2023. With roots in Lucknow, I have always had a deep appreciation for the intricate art of Chikankari. Growing up around this timeless craft, I witnessed firsthand the dedication and skill of artisans who have kept this legacy alive for generations.
Motivated by a desire to support these hardworking artisans and bring their craftsmanship to a wider audience, I began sharing photos and videos of Chikankari kurtas on WhatsApp—initially among friends and colleagues. The response was overwhelming. People not only admired the beauty of the work but also expressed a keen interest in purchasing these handcrafted pieces.
As interest grew, so did the vision. What started as a small WhatsApp-based initiative soon transformed into a scalable business idea. In 2024, we decided to take the next big step—launching a dedicated website. This move was driven by the goal of making Chikankari more accessible across India and overseas, giving customers the ability to explore and purchase our collections with ease.
Through this journey, our core vision remains the same: to empower Chikankari artisans by showcasing their art on a global stage and preserving the rich cultural heritage of Lucknow.
At Chikankarika, we believe that clothing is not just fabric — it’s heritage, emotion, and identity woven together. Rooted in the rich traditions of Lucknowi Chikankari, our brand is on a mission to bring handcrafted elegance into the wardrobes of modern women across India and the globe.
Chikankarika is a fresh and thoughtful initiative that honors the timeless art of Chikankari — an intricate hand embroidery style that originated in Lucknow over 200 years ago. Our collection is a blend of traditional handwork and contemporary aesthetics, designed for today’s women who appreciate culture, comfort, and class.
From breezy Mulmul Kurtis to royal Chanderi Lehengas, our pieces are hand-embroidered by skilled artisans using classic techniques like Bakhiya, Phanda, Tepchi, and Ghaaspatti, often paired with Mukesh and Aari work. Each product tells a story of craftsmanship, patience, and passion.
About the Founder – Sneha Srivastav
“Chikankarika is not just a brand; it’s my tribute to Lucknow and the hands that keep its art alive.”
Sneha Srivastav, the Founder and Owner of Chikankarika, is the creative force and compassionate heart behind the brand. A native of Lucknow, Sneha grew up surrounded by the delicate beauty of Chikankari and developed a deep admiration for its cultural and emotional value.
Armed with an MBA from Amity University, Lucknow, and a Bachelor of Commerce from Lucknow University, Sneha combines her academic expertise with a lifelong passion for traditional art to build a label that is both economically empowering and artistically authentic.
Her mission is two-fold:
- To revive and preserve the art of Chikankari in its purest hand-crafted form.
- To empower local artisans, especially women, by offering them sustainable income, respect, and identity through their skill.
Our value
Our Promise
At Chikankarika, we’re committed to:
- Authentic, hand-embroidered clothing with no machine imitation
- Premium, breathable fabrics like Modal, Georgette, Chanderi, and Mulmul
- Empowering rural artisans, especially women, through ethical practices
- Elegant, timeless designs perfect for everyday wear to festive moments
Join Our Journey
Whether you’re looking for subtle everyday wear or statement pieces for celebrations, Chikankarika offers you a part of Lucknow’s soul, stitched with love.
Crafted in Lucknow | Cherished Worldwide
