Traditional Kasuti Embroidery and GI-Certified Heritage in Bengaluru
Kasuti is more than needlework; it is a story stitched in threads. As a GI-certified artisan, I preserve this meditative Karnataka craft through intricate, knotless patterns on handloom fabrics.
This large textile is a sampler of advanced Kasuti motifs, showcasing the incredible variety and complexity of this heritage craft. It includes traditional patterns like chariots, peacocks, and geometric forms.
A video showing the full detail of the advanced Kasuti sampler. You can see how hundreds of individual motifs come together to create a stunning tapestry of color and pattern.
A detail from a Kasuti-embroidered textile, featuring star motifs and temple cart patterns. The beauty of Kasuti lies in its perfect symmetry and the fact that the design is identical on both sides of the fabric.
This black Ilkal saree is adorned with traditional Kasuti motifs, including temple gopuras and palanquins. This is a classic example of how Kasuti is used to decorate heritage sarees.
A closer look at the Ilkal saree with Kasuti embroidery. The video highlights the intricate details of the motifs, which are inspired by the architecture and nature of Karnataka.
Students from a design school examining a black silk saree with elaborate Kasuti work. Sharing this knowledge with the next generation is essential for keeping the craft alive.
Did you know? Kasuti is stitched without using any knots, and the patterns are created by carefully counting the threads of the fabric. This results in a design that is perfectly neat on both the front and back.
A contemporary take on Kasuti, with geometric motifs arranged in a modern, cascading pattern on a navy blue crepe silk. This shows how a traditional craft can be adapted for today's aesthetic.
The full view of the contemporary Kasuti saree. The gradient-like arrangement of the motifs in shades of blue and silver creates a sophisticated and unique look.
A close-up of the contemporary Kasuti embroidery on the navy blue silk. The different shades of blue thread add depth and movement to the geometric patterns.
About The Art of Kasuti: A GI-Certified Heritage
What sets my Kasuti work apart is the precision of the stitch. You will notice that my motifs, whether they are chariots or temple gopuras, are identical on both sides of the fabric because I never use knots. When you run your hand over a Kasuti-embroidered saree, you feel only the seamless geometry, a hallmark of this GI-certified heritage craft that requires counting every single thread.
Kasuti is an ancient form of folk embroidery from Karnataka, and as a GI-certified artisan, I follow the traditional methods that ensure each piece is a lasting heirloom. Unlike many other embroidery styles, Kasuti is entirely counted-thread work. I do not use knots. Instead, every thread is carefully interlocked into the fabric structure, which is why the design looks the same on the front and the back. This requires immense patience and focus, making the act of stitching a meditative practice.
My work ranges from traditional Ilkal saree borders featuring temple gopuras and chariots to contemporary geometric patterns on modern crepe silks. Because this is a heritage craft, I focus on the authenticity of the motifs. Whether you are looking for a classic black saree with red and white Kasuti or a custom piece on your own fabric, the process remains slow and deliberate.
Beyond just the finished product, I believe in the longevity of these textiles. I often work on restoring older sarees, using Kasuti to patch or enhance worn areas, giving your cherished garments a second life. If you are interested in learning, I also conduct workshops where I teach these traditional techniques from scratch. No prior experience is needed, only a willingness to learn the discipline of counting threads. Whether you want to commission a piece for a festive occasion or learn the craft yourself, my studio in Koramangala is open for those who appreciate slow, thoughtful artistry.
Sameeksha
I am Sujaya Mahesh, and I run Sameeksha in Koramangala. My work is about keeping traditional stories alive, one thread at a time. I do not just embroider; I teach, restore, and help you carry a piece of heritage on your own fabric.
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