Naala/Salwar Drawstring Weaving of Punjab

The art of weaving naala/salwar drawstring has been practiced since olden days. As the salwar kameez is an intrinsic item of every woman’s wardrobe in Punjab, the naala/drawstring helps in holding the heavy-pleated patiala salwar. Every household had ladies making naalas or azarband on a special standing frame. The material used for making naalas is cotton thread which is turned into drawstrings of striking shades. The bride’s trousseau was supplemented with naalas made of resham/silk thread for especially for the wedding purpose.

The naala consists of a flat-weave. The edges are constructed in a way so that they are tight and round with tassels hanging at the end. The naala pani or the drawstring pen is then used to insert the naala into the hem.