The Chamba Rumal, also known as the Chamba handkerchief, stands as a remarkable embroidered handicraft that flourished under the gracious patronage of the former rulers of the Chamba kingdom. It holds a special significance as a customary gift during marriage ceremonies, characterized by intricate patterns in vibrant and captivating color palettes. This remarkable masterpiece has garnered legal safeguarding through the provisions of the Geographical Indication as stipulated in the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) agreement. On the 22nd of January, 2007, it was officially recognized and listed as the 'Chamba Rumal' under the GI Act of 1999 by the Government of India.

Named after Chamba, a charming hill station nestled in Himachal Pradesh, this craft has been honed and perfected over countless generations. The Chamba Rumal is an embodiment of the artistic legacy fostered by the royal figures of Himachal Pradesh and magnificently showcases the rich heritage of Himalayan embroidery and craft traditions.
An early rendition of this art form dates back to the 16th century and is attributed to Bebe Nanaki, the sister of Baba Nanak. Her creation, now preserved in the Hoshiarpur Gurudwara, is one of the earliest known examples of the Chamba Rumal. Additionally, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London houses a Chamba Rumal gifted to the British in 1883 by Raja Gopal Singh. This particular piece features an embroidered depiction of the Kurukshetra War from the epic Mahabharata.
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