I grew up in Lucknow, a city where Chikankari is more than an embroidery—it is part of the city’s heritage. As a child, I had always seen its beauty. The delicate stitches, the bustling bazaars selling chikankari outfits, and the artisans who had devoted their lives to this craft were simply part of everyday life. Like many who grow up with something extraordinary, I never truly paused to appreciate it.