Woven in Indian history and mythology, potli bags have maintained their relevance since Vedic times. Initially crafted from cotton or jute, they were gender-neutral bags used to carry medicinal herbs, spices, and other items of personal use.  

In Ayurvedic practices, the potli or kizhi, was first used around 3000 BCE to 1500 BCE. It was a small cloth bag filled with medicinal herbs or powders, grains, and sand that was heated and applied to the body to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote overall healing and nourishment.

In Indian mythology, the Pandavas, during their exile, used potli bags to carry essential items on their journey. Further, Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, had a small pot called Akshaya Patra wrapped in a potli, which produced an endless supply of food to feed them. Even Arjuna used a potli bag to conceal his divine weapons from the Kauravas, hanging them from a Shami tree in the Virata Kingdom. Sudama famously carried the rice potli when meeting Lord Krishna. In the Ramayana, too, there is mention of the potli bag. When Lord Rama left home, his brother Lakshman carried a potli full of clothes, medical herbs, fruits, water, and a handful of Ayodhya’s soil.

Potli bags have also been in existence for centuries across other cultures. Besides being a means of carrying items, the potli bag also reflected social status. In fact, during the Renaissance period, people owned beautifully decorated leather drawstring pouches to keep valuables. Historically, people from China, Japan, and the Middle East also carried small pouches or bags made from luxurious fabrics and adorned with intricate designs.

The first step in making a potli bag is to decide on the size, style, and shape of the potli. The designer usually designs potli bags in 12x12 inches or 10x14 inches.

The design is then passed on to the tailoring department, which cuts and sews the potli bag according to the design. Once it is ready, a casing is created for the drawstring to pass through. Lastly, the tailor adds beads, pearls, tassels, sequins, etc, for the final decorative look.

Over the centuries, potli bags have evolved in functionality and form. With a resurgence in popularity, potli bags have become an essential accessory for fashionistas, boosting Indian craftsmanship. While earlier potli bags were cotton, silk, velvet, or brocade, modern potli bags integrate decorative elements like Swarovski crystals, synthetic gemstones, mirrors, etc. 

Today potli bags have gone beyond just being functional and ceremonial to a statement piece, seamlessly catering to those who want a unique look each time. They are also more versatile and appealing to audiences globally.