Sujni Kantha is a form of quilting that has been practiced by women of Bengal and Bihar since long. The base materials are simple, pieces of cloth which are stacked in two or three layers then secured with small running stitches. First, the entire available space is covered with running stitches to form a background and then designs are sewn with contrasting thread. The entire process is handmade and the designs are inspired from lore or imagination of the artist. The layering provides the necessary warmth yet the texture of the cloth makes it soft and lightweight.

Khusboo and Punam are sisters who are carrying forward the legacy of their mothers and grandmothers. They hail from Bolpur, Shantiniketan and have been a part of Nabanna Mela since the very beginning. Nowadays they also embroider on stoles, shawls, kurtis and sarees with a view to expand their business.

Each Kantha piece may take up to two years to complete. Khusboo and Punam have also employed a few local girls from their village to help them during their free time. They have ventured into jewelry making with seeds, beads, dhokra, ceramics and fabric and are quite enthusiastic to try new ideas and designs. Their designs are entirely their own, inspired from their surrounding vibrancy and simplicity.

Punam says, “I have been doing this since a very young age, assisting my mother and grandmother. At that time I didn’t even have much idea about the artistic aspects. Now, my sister and I run this business full-time and we look forward to reach more people through the website.”