Zari industry in India dates back to the 16th century reaching its pinnacle during the Mughal rule and is one of the leading industries after diamond and textiles. It is largely a family based, hereditary and skill-oriented business and enjoys the status of cottage industry since 1955. There is no dictionary meaning of “Zari”. It is an expert embroidery work done an silk cloth with thread coated with gold and silver. The craft of Zari is known by different names: Kinkhwab, Zar-baft, Zartari, Zarkashi, Mushaiar and so on. Zari industry has its positive contribution in the development of the rural economy of India. The present study investigates upon the Zari industry as a viable source of sustenance and the state of the workers and the challenges the industry encounters in the rural economy of West Bengal, specifically, in the district of Howrah.