Jalandhar designer honoured for promoting Phulkari

Jyoti Kapoor, a city-based fashion designer and educationist, has been honoured with an appreciation award from the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) for her contribution to the promotion of Punjab’s traditional craft, Phulkari. The accolade was given during the Prime Minister Vishwakarma Trade Fair and Exhibition held in Ludhiana recently.

Assistant Commissioner Ishita Thamman presented the award to Kapoor, with Sanjeev Chawla, Additional Development Commissioner of the Ministry of MSME, also in attendance. She was honoured for the Phulkari project ‘Kohenoor’, which integrates traditional Phulkari embroidery with modern fashion designs.

Jyoti Kapoor, with over 23 years of experience as an educationist and industrial fashion designer, has made an impact through her work in reviving Phulkari and integrating it with modern fashion trends. A graduate of Kanya Maha Vidyalaya, Jalandhar, she holds several specialised qualifications, including an Advanced Diploma in Fashion Designing from the INIFD and a postgraduate Diploma in International Business Operations from IGNOU. Currently pursuing the PhD focused on Phulkari, she has worked with institutions and brands like the INIFD, LPU and Duke Fashions India.

Talking to Jalandhar Tribune, Jyoti said she was dedicated to preserving and promoting Punjab’s cultural heritage through her work in Phulkari and Sardari themes. “My efforts include organising fashion shows to spotlight emerging designers, providing job placements and fostering new start-ups. Through these initiatives, I have contributed to the growth of young talent in the fashion industry”, she added.

Divulging details about her project Kohenoor, she said it stood for its innovative approach, combining the traditional art of Phulkari with contemporary fashion. “My collection features a range of garments, including jackets, Indo-western attire and stylish coats, which blends ethnic Punjabi embroidery with modern aesthetics. This unique fusion has garnered international acclaim”, she said.

In addition to her design work, Jyoti said she was leading an employment generation initiative in collaboration with educational institutions, MSMEs and the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CICuU). This programme aims to bridge the gap between academic training and industry requirements, equipping young professionals with the skills necessary for success in the workforce.

Reflected on her lifelong passion for design and her commitment to elevating Phulkari, she said, “Since childhood, I’ve been fascinated by fashion. I wanted to achieve something in the industry that not only brings recognition to me, but also benefits others and highlights our state’s cultural richness. By integrating Phulkari into diverse designs, I aim to share our heritage with the world”, she said.