The Victoria and Albert Museum in London, England is an important institution for cultural endeavors in the form of historical exhibitions, events, educational programmes and research. They are also curators of a collection that spans over 5,000 years and all creative disciplines. Its latest grand exhibit highlights the Golden Age of the Mughal court, specifically during the reign of Akbar, Jahangir, and Shah Jahan.

The Great Mughals: Art, Architecture, and Opulence exhibit, open to the public from November 9th - May 5th, offers an intimate voyage into the grandeur of one of history’s most lavish empires. Among the great treasures of the Mughal period, Chikankari embroidery holds a special place. Known for its understated elegance and intricate hand-stitched motifs, this craft embodies the refinement of Mughal design. 

Chikankari embroidery is believed to have originated in the Mughal court during the reign of Emperor Jahangir, when Nur Jahan, his queen and a patron of fine arts, introduced it as a form of textile embellishment. Initially reserved for the royal household, Chikankari was characterized by its delicate floral patterns and white-on-white aesthetic, often paired with muslin or fine cotton. Over time, the craft spread beyond the palace walls, becoming a symbol of sophistication and grace during this period.

Founded with a vision to preserve and elevate Chikankari, Mita Dass seamlessly blends this tradition with modern luxury. Each piece is a testament to the meticulous artistry of hand embroidery, guided by the designer’s love for heritage and craftsmanship. At The Great Mughals exhibition section in the V&A Shop, we have 5 different Mita Dass handwoven and hand embroidered scarves available, echoing the elegance of the Mughal courts. Each scarf features intricate floral and jaali hand embroidered patterns. 

While the museum pieces highlight Chikankari’s intricacy, Mita Dass also brings this craft to life in everyday luxury, offering wearable art that balances tradition with modern sensibilities. However, preserving a craft like Chikankari comes at a cost—each stitch reflects hours of labor and generations of expertise. At Mita Dass, we strive to honor this heritage while ensuring accessibility through thoughtful design and sustainable practices. 

The Great Mughals exhibit is more than a celebration of history; it’s a call to preserve our shared cultural heritage. At Mita Dass, we are proud to continue this legacy, one stitch at a time. This collaboration has been an honour to work on and we hope to curate and create for museums looking for the best India has to offer.

Explore this collection at The Victoria & Albert Museum in London to learn more and be part of this journey!