Traditional craftsmanship > Embroidery of Toda Women

Embroidery of Toda Women

The Toda women of the Nilgiri region of Souther India, including Tamil Nadu have evolved a very rich distinctive style of embroidery called pugar which means flower. Geometrical patterns are stitched on long shawls called poothkuli that are worn in Roman style by the menfolk. The designs are mostly symbolic ranging from floral motifs to animal and human figures.these old kavadis are detached and are now used as wall decorations. Nagercoil and Suchindram have traditional carvers who also make figures.

There is a unique style of applique work done in Tanjore for decoration on temple hangings, specially those adorning the carved charriots used in processions. They are tubular in form as they hang down the side of the charriot. the designs are appliqued with several traditional signs and motifs including images of gods and goddesses.

It should albe noted that the Toda community are a unique small pastoral tribe, found exclusively in the Nilgiris and have very low head count.

Source: http://www.craftscouncilindia.org/crafts/crafts-tn.html

Contributed by Vanitha and Team, CEE South

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