The Chamba Rumal is a traditional art form of Himachal Pradesh that is reflected in the paintings and embroidery done on cloth by skillful artisans. The Delhi Crafts Council has undertaken a series of efforts to revive this art form and make this dying art popular.

 To infuse new life into this unique art, an art exhibition is being showcased at the Visual Art Gallery at Indian Habitat Centre in New Delhi from April 3 to April 8.

The  embroidered square cloths gets its name from Chamba in the state of Himachal Pradesh. These beautiful handkerchieves are an embroidered handicraft that was once promoted under the patronage of the former rulers of Chamba. Now, they are used for covering platters, as gifts for auspicious occasions and for offerings to a deity.  During weddings, the families of the bride and groom exchange the rumals as a token of goodwill.

The outlines are drawn on fine handspun and hand woven unbleached muslin by Pahari miniature artists, especially men. The women then work on these compositions by doing embroidery using untwisted coloured silk floss. The double satin stitch technique used is known as do-rukha which ensures that the same beautiful images also appear on the reverse side. The sophistication of these miniature paintings is reflected in its elaborate floral borders, ornamentation and portrayal of figures and animals. 

The exhibition will not only showcase the handcrafted rumals, but also honour artisans and craft persons who have worked hard to keep this unique art form alive.The Council is offering guided tours of the exhibition so that interested art lovers will get an in depth understanding of this unique art form.