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Gotta Patti, also known as “gota”, is a traditional form of Indian embroidery that has been used for centuries to embellish clothing, textiles, and accessories. The technique involves the use of thin, golden ribbons made of metal, which are stitched onto fabric to create intricate and delicate designs. The term “gotta patti” literally translates to “golden ribbon work” in Hindi, and it is considered one of the most beautiful forms of traditional Indian embroidery.
The history of gotta patti can be traced back to the royal courts of Rajasthan, where it was used to adorn the clothing of the royalty and elite. The intricate designs and luxurious materials used in gotta patti reflected the wealth and status of those who wore it, and it quickly became a symbol of elegance and sophistication. The use of gotta patti spread across India, and it soon became a staple of traditional Indian clothing and textiles.
The process of creating gotta patti involves carefully cutting and shaping the metal ribbons into the desired design and then stitching them onto the fabric using a needle and thread. This is a time-consuming and intricate process, and it is typically carried out by skilled artisans who have been trained in the technique. The embroidery is done by hand, and it can take many hours to complete even a small piece of gotta patti work.
Today, gotta patti is still widely used in traditional Indian clothing, particularly in the form of Lehengas, sarees , and kurtis . It is also used to adorn other items such as shawls, dupattas, and bags.
One of the most common patterns used in Gota Patti is the floral design. This design is created using a series of loops and curves that mimic the shape of flowers and leaves. The metal strips are sewn onto the fabric in such a way that they create a textured and sparkling effect, which is characteristic of Gota Patti. Floral designs are often used to create intricate borders on garments, and they can also be used to create standalone patterns on the fabric.
Another popular pattern used in Gota Patti is the paisley design. This design features a teardrop-shaped motif that is often combined with floral elements. The paisley design is considered to be one of the most versatile patterns in Gota Patti, and it is often used as a border or as an individual pattern. The paisley design is also frequently used in combination with other patterns, such as floral designs, to create intricate and beautiful compositions.
Geometric patterns are also commonly used in Gota Patti. These patterns are created using straight lines and curves, and they can be simple or complex. Geometric patterns are often used to create borders, and they can also be used to create standalone designs on the fabric. Some of the most popular geometric patterns in Gota Patti include chevrons, zigzags, and circles.
Gota Patti patterns can also be inspired by nature, such as leaves, vines, and branches. These patterns are often used to create borders, and they can also be used as standalone designs on the fabric. Nature-inspired patterns are often combined with other elements, such as floral designs, to create intricate and beautiful compositions.
The use of gotta patti has evolved over the years, and it is now widely used in modern and contemporary Indian fashion. Designers are incorporating the technique into their collections in new and innovative ways, and it has become a popular choice for bridal wear and special occasion clothing. The golden colour of the metal ribbons is particularly well-suited to bridal wear, as it provides a luxurious and eye-catching touch to the outfit.
Gota Patti has traditionally been used in bridalwear and is considered to be a symbol of wealth and status. In Rajasthan, it is common for brides to wear elaborate Gota Patti lehengas, which are ornately decorated with intricate patterns and embellishments. The Gota Patti work is often combined with other forms of traditional Indian embroidery, such as zari and resham, to create beautiful and unique pieces of bridalwear.
In recent years, Gota Patti has become increasingly popular outside of India, and it is now used in a variety of fashion styles, including traditional Indian wear, fusion wear, and even western wear. This has led to a renewed interest in this traditional form of embroidery and has helped to revive the art form. The popularity of Gota Patti has also led to the development of new techniques and designs, making it a versatile and timeless form of embroidery that is both traditional and modern.
One of the unique features of Gota Patti is its versatility. It can be used in a variety of different ways, including as a border, as a standalone design, or even as a form of embellishment. It can also be combined with other forms of traditional Indian embroidery, such as zari and resham, to create unique and beautiful pieces of clothing. This versatility has helped to make Gota Patti a popular choice for designers
In addition to traditional Indian clothing, gotta patti is also used in other types of clothing and accessories. For example, it is common to see gotta patti used to embellish the edges of shawls and scarves or to create decorative borders on bags and purses. The use of gotta patti has also spread beyond India, and it is now used in fashion and textiles across the world.
The use of gotta patti is not limited to clothing and textiles, however. It is also commonly used in home décor, such as cushion covers, bedspreads, and curtains. The golden color of the metal ribbons provides a warm and luxurious touch to any room, and the intricate designs add a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Despite its popularity, the process of creating gotta patti is under threat in many parts of India. The rise of mass-produced, machine-made textiles and the decline of traditional artisanal skills are both contributing factors to the decline of gotta patti. In order to preserve this important and beautiful form of traditional Indian embroidery, it is important to support artisans and encourage the continued use of gotta patti in contemporary fashion and textiles. Gota patti work is versatile, durable, and a form of folk art that reflects the cultural heritage of Rajasthan, making it a popular choice for special occasions and bridal wear.
WeaverStory,s latest collection, Mehrunisa , is an ode to beauty. It is a melange of delicate gota and zardozi on hand-woven fabrics that come together to create modern, minimalist, and aesthetically pleasing silhouettes. This collection has light, pastel colors with breathable silhouettes for the breezy spring and summer months..
Author - Aditi Bapna
