Each handicraft has its own history and style. For thousands of years now, these different crafts of India have given her a unique identity worldwide. One such craft is the Toda craft of Nilgiri hills.

The Nilgiris is home to 18 tribal groups, among whom the Todas have the most distinctive culture. Rich in heritage, Todas has an alluring style of embroidery known as Toda embroidery.

History of this indigenous craft

Toda embroidery is a hereditary tribal craft famous for its stunning geometric motifs and beautiful finish. The embroidery is on off-white cotton cloth with red and black woolen threads giving it an appearance of woven fabric. This distinct embroidery style is locally famous as “Pugur” or “Pukhoor.”

In addition to the traditional Puthukul shawl, its original place of majesty, this century-old embroidery has manifested itself today in drapes, dupattas, tablecloths, stoles, kurtas, pajamas, skirts, and jackets. The embroidered shawls serve as a symbol of both style and dignity for Toda men and women. There is a design requirement for each lifecycle ceremony, and the shawl is an integral part of the careful aesthetic ecosystem.

The natural surroundings inspire the motifs embroidered in the cloth. The tribals worship buffalo, so the buffalo horn is the most important motif. There are black triangles together, a box motif which is given name after their head priest. The other motifs used for the craft include Sun, Moon, stars, squirrels, rabbits, snakes, and flowers.

Toda embroidery VS Modern embroidery

One of the fascinating features of the Toda women is that they can embroider geometric patterns with precision without using any external aids like scales or patterns.

The reverse side of the embroidery is also exquisite, with no signs of knots or hanging threads, another difference between it and modern embroidery. As a result, it takes time and effort, but the aesthetic appeal of the final product is well worth it.

The present condition of this art

This ancient art Nilgiris got recognition in the Geographical Indication (GI) in the year 2013. Moreover, the government of Tamil Nadu, several NGOs, and corporate organizations are working on the revival of this Toda craft. The focus is to bring this traditional craftwork to mainstream fashion.

Women embroider the shawls and sell them to generate income for their communities. But with time, they are moving toward contributing to contemporary fashion. Government-run handicraft emporiums are helping this community to market their products.
Through the (AHVY) scheme, the craft has taken a new shape with the assistance of the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) in the Ministry of Textiles of the Government of India.
Last thoughts

In conclusion, all crafts are expressions of beauty, and aesthetics that are created by an artist with precision and hard work. The Toda craft of Tamil Nadu is very distinctive and it should be preserved before it gets wiped out from the face of our country. Thus, we can revive and preserve the rich cultural heritage of India.