Grasia Jath Embroidery

Grasia Jath Embroidery

Tracing the migratory route of the Grasia Jath tribe, historians conclude that they came to Kutch from Iran and are closely related to the European Jaths who migrated to various parts of Europe from Iran.

Grasia means, those who own land or property. The first piece of land owned by them was reputedly gifted to them by either King Desalji or King Rayadhan, as a token of appreciation for their faithfulness to him.

Grasia Jaths have developed a brilliant expression of embroidery that would delight the eye of every art connoisseur. The history of their embroidery is associated with their spiritual leader Fatima Bibi, who lived about 400 years ago. The embroidered yoke of her gown is said to be the forerunner of the present day embroidery of the Grasia Jaths. This is one of the very few types of Kutchi embroidery, which makes use of the Western Cross Stitch, just like their Syrian counterparts.