Ek taar/ Single Metallic Thread Embroidery of India

“Ek taar” in hindi means one wire. This style of embroidery, as the name suggests is done using a single metal thread. In this style, the thread work is the focus and is hence made much more visible than other embroideries. It is also decorated with crystals and stones. 

While ek taar existed before the Mughal rule, it was made popular during this period by the Mughal rulers due to the exquisite nature of the craft. Today, ek taar is largely found in wedding attire and indian formal wear but has also been adapted to bags, shawls and home decor. The use of gold and silver has become less common and threads of silk and cotton are being used in replacement. There have been attempts to shift the process of ek taar to machines however the craft continues to be done exclusively by hand.