The Chikan  craft of Lucknow, one of the most popular  embroideries of India, was introduced by Noor-Jahan and patronized by Nawab  of Oudh during 16th  Century AD. The uniqueness of Chikankari lies with one  of  the  main stitches called “Bakhiya” or shadow work, which is a delicate stitch done on fine muslin and has an opalescent 'shadowy' effect. The thread is massed on the underside of the fabric so as to create a shadow or opaque effect on the face of the fabric. The artisans  combine  thirty- two different  stitches  and five derivatives to bring prominence in on products. The  products like Kurta, pyjama, kameez, shirts, ladies wear, sarees, home furnishings etc is  very    popular  among  domestic   and foreign buyers.

It may be the first artistic  work  of India,  which  participated and was awarded  in the exhibition organised during  coronation ceremony of queen Elizabeth  held at London  in 1911.