#lucknow

An embroidered silk zardozi panel, with spangles, rubies, emeralds and pearls, probably from Lucknow, c. 1887-1897.

It is currently displayed in a cabinet of woven gifts presented to Queen Victoria on the occasions of her Golden and Diamond Jubilees in 1887 and 1897 at Osborne House on the Isle of Wight. The embroidered panel includes two swirling fish, an Awadhi emblem found on many monuments in Lucknow. The surface is studded with glittering precious jewels and the exquisite zardozi embroidery work.

मनोजवं मारुततुल्य वेगं, जितेन्द्रियं बुद्धिमतां वरिष्ठम्।

वातात्मजं वानरयूथमुख्यं श्रीरामदूतम् शरणं प्रपद्ये।।

Translation:

I seek refuge in Hanuman, the son of Vayu, whose speed is like that of the mind, who controls his senses, and is the best among the intelligent. He is the chief of the monkey clan and the messenger of Shri Rama.

This shlok beautifully encapsulates the divine qualities of Hanuman Ji: speed, intelligence, control over senses, and unwavering devotion to Lord Rama.

Priyanka Chopra at the 5th Annual Gold Gala, wearing a custom gown by Amit Aggarwal, designed in partnership with stylist Ami Patel.

Constructed from a 20yr-old sari, the gown is decorated with chikankari, a traditional embroidery style from Lucknow, in Uttar Pradesh, Chopra's home state.