As part of the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya (IGRMS) Museum Folklore Lecture Series, Dr. Rohini Arora delivered a keynote lecture on Chamba Rumal, Himachal Pradesh’s renowned embroidered craft. IGRMS Director Dr. P.K. Mishra emphasized its global recognition, stating that the lecture would serve as a valuable reference for future researchers.

Dr. Arora, who earned her PhD from Lady Irwin College, University of Delhi, in 2015, has extensively documented Chamba embroidery’s dyeing techniques, designs, and materials while working on skill development for artisans. She highlighted the Pahari region’s embroidery tradition, once widespread across undivided Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, now mainly practiced in Chamba.

While Pahari embroidery includes cholies, hand fans, patkas, and cushion covers, Chamba Rumals remain the most iconic due to their intricate double-sided stitching. However, declining quality, altered materials, and limited stitch variety threaten the craft. Dr. Arora’s research aims to revive and innovate this heritage, ensuring its preservation for future generations.