Jagaran

This folk song and dance form of Jammu is based on the theme of marriage and is performed during the marriage ceremony. When the groom, accompanied by the men folk, leaves for his in-laws' house (i.e. baraat), women folk left alone at home indulge in Jagarna. The whole night is spent in gossiping and dancing, hence the name Jagarna. This is performed exclusively by womenfolk; children and men are strictly prohibited from witnessing or participating.

Such practices and ceremonies are dying out due to the fast changing lifestyle and a consciousness of modernity.

Source:
www.jammutimes.com
www.jammukashmirrealities.blogspot.com
www.jindianetzone.com

Muslin Fabric

This gossamer light muslin fabric has found mention in the writings of many visitors to India, even as far back as the 3rd century B.C. A great deal of muslin was produced in and exported from Bengal. Dacca was the main region where cotton was cultivated due to the high humidity of the region, which prevented the delicate thread from breaking on contact with the air. The cotton spun was very white since the Brahmaputra and the Ganges Rivers have bleaching properties. The chikan workers in Bengal used this fine muslin for embroidery.

Stitches in Chikankari

Double-Star Earring, Peacock Feather's Eye, Sidhual, Makra, Mandarzi, Bulbulchashm, Tajmahal, Phooljali, Phanda, Dhoom, Gol, murri, Janjeera, Keel, Kangan, Bakhia, Dhania Patti, lambi Murri, Kapkapi, Karan Phool, Bijli, Ghaspatti, Rozan, Meharki, Kaj, Chameli, Chane ki Patti, Balda, Jora, Pachni, Tapchim Kauri, Hathkati and Daraj of various types.