Toda Embroidery: The Distinctive Red and Black Thread Art of the Nilgiris
Deep within the misty blue mountains of the Nilgiris in Tamil Nadu lives a tribe that has guarded a unique artistic tradition for centuries. This is the Toda tribe, and their gift to the world of textiles is the striking red and black embroidery known as Pukhoor.
While India is home to countless embroidery styles, Toda embroidery stands apart. It doesn't look like typical needlework; in fact, the stitches are so fine and precise that the finished fabric often looks like it was woven by a machine. But make no mistake—this is purely the work of human hands, crafted without frames or modern tools.
In this guide, we will explore the fascinating world of Toda embroidery, tracing its roots in tribal history, understanding its complex technique, and seeing how this ancient craft is finding a ne...
