Source: Freepik

Delhi, a city of artistic traditions, has many intricate designs among which is the ‘Guldaudi’ or ‘Chrysanthemums pattern’ which is known for its aesthetic looks and artistic heritage. Its history is inspired by nature, and flowers used in textiles, and various art and crafts.

Symbol of the Guldaudi 

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Chrysanthemum is known for its auspiciousness, resilience, celebration, and religious significance. In the Hindu culture and traditions, marigolds are often used for ceremonies, as decorations during the worship of gods and goddesses, and as garlands at weddings. The flower has a vibrant yellow hue and orange colour which signifies divinity, and warmth. 

Guldaudi reflects on the history and influence of Persian art back from the Mughal ages as they were influenced by Persian culture and flowers. The rulers brought with them the art of floral design blending nature with artistic decoration and style with the rise of floral patterns in Mughal art such as the Chahar Bagh (four-part gardens) and the floral decorations in palaces.

Influence of the Mughals on Floral Patterns in Delhi

The Mughal rulers were known for patronising art to promote Delhi’s cultural heritage. The significance of Guldaudi in garden textiles, miniature paintings, and Mughal-style architectural designs was inspired by the floral design of different flowers like lotus, jasmine, Chrysanthemums and marigolds. 

Source: Homegrown

Guldaudi slowly became the symbol of Mughal courts, for its floral features and symbolic meanings. Marigold is associated with vitality, the sun, and immortality which were the grandeur nature of any emperor. It resonated with the Mughals and thus the artist conveyed it in the architectural designs.

These floral motifs can be seen in Delhi in the form of stone carvings on numerous monuments like Humayun’s Tomb, and the Red Fort. The Taj Mahal, although located in Agra, influenced many architectural works in Delhi, inspiring the use of floral patterns like Guldaudi in tombs and mosques.

Apart from this patterns are intricately used in textiles through embroidery. The elites favoured the art of block printing using weaving and making luxurious patterns and fabrics on clothes.

Evolution of Guldaudi Patterns in Textiles 

Guldaudi has evolved from patterns on monuments to textiles as it was favoured by the Mughals for its symbolic meaning. The motif is used in embroidery like Chikankari, and Zardozi with careful use of needlework, highlighted by the floral design on it.

Source: The Indian Couture

• Chikankari in particular flourished from the Mughal era. It is a form of white embroidery on a fine muslin cloth, which features floral motifs.
• Guldaudi design on the Chikankari was carefully crafted with stitches like ‘Bakhiya’ (shadow work) and ‘Phanda’ (knotwork) that gave a three-dimensional look – bringing the flowers alive on the fabric.
  

  Source: Fjord West Studio

• Another form of textile tradition with a blend of Guldaudi was ‘block printing‘. The artisans would carefully carve Chrysanthemum designs on a wooden block and then imprint the cloth with vibrant colours. These beautiful designs are used for home decor, ceremonies, and garments for occasions. 

Guldaudi in the Mughal Architecture

The Mughals were famous for their traditional architectural style, a blend of art and traditions. They often used floral designs in the interior buildings on the top of a dome structure incorporating marigold designs. 

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These patterns can be seen in stonework known as ‘Pietra Dura’ on Mughal monuments. Red Fort is one monument known for its architectural superiority and use of floral designs immortalised by stone and plaster. 

Artisans in Delhi have utilised Guldaudi patterns in decorative arts like jewellery, pottery, and the famous ‘Meenakari’ with marigold motifs. 

Case Study of Guldaudi Patterns in Delhi

1. Shahjahanabad (Old Delhi) Textiles

The use of Guldaudi patterns was seen in the textiles of Shahjanabad, a walled city of magnificence by Emperor Shah Jahan. The artists carefully incorporated chrysanthemums in the designs of Saris, Dupattas, and Lehengas.

2. Lodhi Garden’s Architectural Inscriptions

The specialised carvings in Lodhi Garden, especially in the tombs of the Lodi rulers, are remarkable examples of the Mughal floral patterns. It showcases the dominance of geometric designs and Islamic styles in and around the arches and walls of the tomb. It also features the intricate floral carvings of Gauldaudi.

Guldaudi Pattern and its Contemporary Appeal

Even after centuries, the Guldaudi patterns continue to remain an iconic motif in Delhi’s heritage and art. Its aesthetic pattern and Mughal heritage are incorporated into contemporary jewellery, decoration, and ceremonies. Craft fairs like ‘Dastkar’ and ‘Dilli Haat’ are places where one can witness the craftsmanship of the Guldaudi pattern. It proves the promise traditional motifs hold and blend with the modern tradition reflecting its relevance even today.

It is more than a pattern but a symbol of Delhi’s rich culture and history, influenced by the Mughals’ love for art. From the age-old monuments to the present-day embroidery, Guldaudi has left an indelible mark of artistic tradition and fashion bridging the past and the present.