Types and use of Nokshi katha

The size and shape of the katha would be determined by its end use. The Sujni Katha is a decorative blanket or a coverlet. This type of katha may be used for special occasions when guests are over or for day to day use, based on the elaborateness of the decorative motifs embroidered on it. A Gilaf or a Bostani is used as a book cover, specially made for covering the religious books or texts. Expectant mothers spend the last trimester of their pregnancy in making Nokshi Katha for the new-born baby, believing that wrapping the newborn baby in a Nokshi Katha heralds good fortune for the family and protects the baby from disease. When a girl gets married she would take a katha from her parents’ house with her to the in laws, taking with her a memory of home.

Examples of Nokshi Katha uses:

1. Quilt or Nokshi Katha

Traditionally, Nakshi Kathas were made as quilts for cold weather. It is also made in a smaller size for children to use. 4. Daster Khan

Dastarkhan is a small rectangular nokshi katha to cover the place to serve food for a ceremony or special occasion.

2. Jainamaz

People used to make their own prayer mats. They used religious symbols to decorate them. They were different from the store brought prayer mat.

3. Floor Spread

Many used Nakshi Kantha as a floor spread. Unlike Kathas, they did not have layers of fabrics. Those were mainly decorative pieces. 5. Other uses

Tables cloths, furniture covers, book cover etc., were made using Nokshi Katha designs. They were used as decorative pieces.

6. Modern Uses

Apart from the traditional uses, katha designs has now become a fashion statement. To promote this tradition, many designers are incorporating it with modern clothing or accessories.

Kathas are very comfortable for newborns and toddlers to use. Children love being wrapped in cozy blankets made by their mother.