Ralli: The Ancient Craft of Quilting in Sindh
The Handcrafted Art of Indus People
In Sindh, every home has something special called a Ralli (رَلِّي). In English, it is known as a quilt, but it is more than just a blanket. It is a handmade quilted piece of art, created with love, care, and skill. This tradition goes back to the IVC, making it one of the oldest forms of textile art still in use today.
Women quilters in Sindh have been making Rallis for generations. They stitch together small pieces of cloth to form colorful patterns and designs. Each one tells a quilt story of the culture, daily life, and traditions of Sindhi people. It is not just a household item, but a part of Sindh’s living history.
A Quilt for Every Home
In Sindh, quilts are used every day. Unlike modern bedsheets or machine-made blankets, a this is soft, comfortable, and layered. It fits well on wooden beds know as cots and provides both coolness and beauty.
Quilts Sizes
Ralli sizes are different and designs to suit everyone in the family. Quilts queen size large size beds, large Rallis are carefully handcrafted with vibrant colors and detailed patterns. These quilts are not only useful for warmth and comfort but also serve as a piece of cultural decoration in modern homes. Their beauty and traditional charm make them a perfect blend of old heritage and modern lifestyle.
Quilts for kids are smaller and are made with simpler and playful patterns. The quilting fabric is soft, keeping young ones cozy and comfortable. As children grow older, the Rallis made for them become more intricate in design, often using brighter colors and more complex patterns to reflect their growing personality and the family’s continued love.
A very special type of quilt called Raliko is made especially for newborn babies. These are the smallest in size and are crafted with the softest materials to ensure warmth and safety for the infant. Usually made by mothers, grandmothers, or other women in the family, a Raliko represents deep care and affection. It is often kept as a memory of the child’s early days, making it not only practical but also emotionally valuable.
A Craft Passed from Mothers to Daughters
Making Ralli is a skill taught by mothers to their daughters. Girls learn how to cut, sew, and stitch pieces of old cloth into beautiful designs. Many quilts are made from used clothes, which saves money and helps the environment.
Women also sell them in quilty shops and online to earn money and support their families. It is a source of income and a way to keep this old tradition alive.
Old Art, Still Alive Today
The history of quilting in Sindh goes back thousands of years. The same stitching methods and patterns are still used today. Even without big factories or machines, women in Sindh continue to make these beautiful quilts by hand.
It is a living tradition, not kept in museums but used in daily life. In villages, people sleep on and under these quilts, especially in the summer. The natural cotton inside helps keep the body cool, unlike synthetic materials.
Even in big cities like Karachi and Sukkur, many families prefer using handmade quilt patterns. They are comfortable, natural, and full of cultural meaning.
Memory in Every Stitch
Every quilt is full of memories. Sometimes, it is made from the clothes of loved ones. Each piece of cloth tells a story. Some families keep quilts for many years and pass them on to the next generation.
There are made for weddings, babies, and special events. These quilts are not just useful—they are emotional gifts.
A Tradition Without Recognition
In other countries, there are museums to celebrate quilting. For example, in the United States, there is the International Quilt Museum. But in Pakistan, especially Sindh, there is no such place to honor this craft.
Still, the tradition continues—not because of government support, but because people love it and use it every day. Women in villages keep quilting, using old clothes and recycled fabric. Each quilt is unique and handmade with love.
Final Words: Ralli Means Home
It is more than just a quilt. It is a part of Sindh’s identity, culture, and art. It shows how strong and creative the women of Sindh are. It is soft, useful, beautiful—and full of tradition.
Note: Ralli come in many names like Rali, Reli, Rili, Rallis, or Ralis—but they all mean the same thing: a traditional handmade quilt full of history and heart.
To preserve the centuries-old art of Ralli, it is recommended that a dedicated Indus Quilt Museum be established in Sindh. Additionally, an annual Ralli Mela (fair) should be organized to celebrate and promote this cultural craft. These efforts will support artisans, educate future generations, and help keep the vibrant tradition of Ralli alive and thriving.