Mass Chikan
Chikankari is a centuries-old embroidery tradition deeply intertwined with the cultural legacy of the Mughal Empire. Introduced and refined under Mughal patronage, the craft flourished in Lucknow as a form of restrained luxury—valued for its delicacy, breathability, and intricate handwork. Once reserved for royalty and nobility, chikankari embodied an elegance that relied on skill and time rather than excess.
Mass Chikan was founded to protect and revive this endangered heritage. Established by former members of the Self Employed Women’s Association (SEWA), Lucknow, the organisation places women artisans at its core, recognising them as the primary custodians of chikankari’s knowledge. Through fair wages, consistent work, and skill development, Mass Chikan works to restore dignity and sustainability to a craft increasingly threatened by industrial replication.
Beyond production, Mass Chikan acts as a bridge between artisans and the wider world—connecting designers, brands, and individuals directly with embroidery communities. By facilitating commissions and collaborations, the organisation ensures that artisans remain active participants in the evolution of their craft rather than anonymous labour behind it. Their work extends across India, where they actively promote chikankari through education, partnerships, and visibility—strengthening appreciation for the craft beyond its regional roots.
At Atelier Sleeba, our collaboration with Mass Chikan is rooted in research, experimentation, and mutual respect. Together, we develop custom embroidery techniques and contemporary applications, exploring new scales, placements, and structures while honouring the integrity of handwork. This ongoing dialogue allows chikankari to evolve—adapting to modern design languages without losing its identity.
Today, chikankari faces significant challenges. Fast fashion, machine-made replicas, and undervaluation have compressed timelines and eroded the worth of hand embroidery. Mass Chikan actively counters this by prioritising process over speed and preservation over imitation.
Women’s empowerment is central to Mass Chikan’s ethos—an alignment deeply shared by Atelier Sleeba. Through long-term collaboration, we aim to support a future in which chikankari remains a living, respected craft—rooted in history, responsive to the present, and resilient enough to endure.