KARACHI-Pakistan is a land of cultural diversity. Every province of the country exhibits unique culture, traditions, and artwork. The famous ‘Ralli’ artwork of Sindh is one of the most decorative and colorful art of Pakistan. It is called as ‘Ralli’ or ‘Rilli’ also.
Ralli quilts are traditional quilts made by women in the areas of Sindh, Pakistan, western India, and in surrounding areas. These are a cultural symbol of ‘Sindh’ and are used as a bed cover, ladies handbags, eating cloth, table runners, sofa pillows and many other household decor purposes.
Rallis are made in a simple way with only fabric, thread, needles, and scissors. The top of the quilt (the decorated portion) is usually the work of one woman. When the top portion is all pieced and sewn together, she will start to sew it together. A reed mat is placed on the ground. The cloth that is to be the back or bottom of the quilt is placed on the mat. Often a group of women will work on sewing a quilt together (much like the western “quilting bee”). The stitches are often very close together (1/8-1/2 inch apart)in long parallel lines extending the length of the quilt.
The Rilli work comes in three categories of design: patchwork, applique, and embroidery. Patchwork is the most common and is found on most village beds. Many of the designs are very complex. The designs are not written down but are held in the women’s memories and are passed down from mother to daughter.
Applique designs are also found throughout the rilli region. Small squares of fabric are cut out (similar to a paper “snowflake”), edges are turned under and sewn unto the block fabric. Embroidery quilts are the specialty of a few nomadic groups especially the Saami. These quilts generally use a large piece of whole or patched cloth and using colored thread, have stitching in embroidery designs go through all the layers of the cloth.
Many leading brands of Pakistan have launched collections inspired by ‘Ralli Art’. these are also representing the artistic people of Pakistan not only locally but in foreign countries also. So, decorate and enhance the beauty of your homes with wonderful pieces of Ralli art.
