Sujani Art

Sujini craft (sujani) is a traditional art form of embroidery and quilt-making from the eastern Indian state of Bihar, particularly, the rural regions of Bhusra and Bhagalpur. Usually, Sujini quilts were made by women using recycled fabrics to create functional yet artistic pieces, often as gifts for new mothers and their infants. Over time, Sujini evolved from a utilitarian craft into a celebrated art form, with motifs and themes that reflect the local culture, myths, and social issues.

Legend

The craft of Sujini is deeply rooted in the regional belief that stitching the pieces of old clothes together evokes the presence of a local deity, Chitiriya Ma (the goddess of the tatters). It symbolizes the idea that all the torn-out pieces once belonged to the whole and must return to it.

Technique and Craftsmanship

Traditionally, Sujini artisans use old saris, dhotis, or other recycled fabrics based on their resourcefulness as the base material for the quilt. Artisans layer and fix them using running stitches. Later the combined piece is decorated with intricate embroidery using colourful threads. The embroidered motifs comprise scenes from Ramayana, Mahabharat,  everyday life, and symbols of fertility and prosperity such as sun or cloud.

Traditionally, women would gather to create Sujini quilts, engaging in communal storytelling and bonding over shared experiences. Sujini quilts are known for their narrative quality. This collective practice made Sujini a crucial aspect of the community's social fabric, reinforcing cultural heritage while providing a creative outlet for women.