Exquisite craftsmanship on display

Austrian envoy lauds home-based artisan’s mastery over work

ISLAMABAD:

A Handicraft Eid Bazaar, dedicated to supporting women artisans from across Pakistan and promoting their economic empowerment was inaugurated in the federal capital on Sunday.

The two-day event has been organised by Serena Hotels under their cultural diplomacy initiative in collaboration with the Behbud Association.

Ambassador of Austria to Pakistan Andrea Wicke, who attended the event as chief guest, inaugurated the bazaar and praised it as a celebration of the artistry and creativity of home-based workers. She expressed delight in witnessing the exquisite craftsmanship on display and commended Behbud and Serena Hotels for organising such an event to empower women.

The bazaar aimed to showcase the strength and creativity of home-based workers and women artisans, who persist in creating remarkable artifacts despite facing challenges. It featured a diverse range of traditional crafts and needlework from various regions of Pakistan, including Ralli, Hand & Machine Embroidery, Kantha, Chikankari, Block Printing, Smocking, Cutwork, Cross-stitch, Taarkashi, Phulkari, Crochet, Knitting, and more.

Artisans at the stalls provided live demonstrations of their craft, attracting many visitors who enjoyed exploring the intricate craftsmanship.

Abida Malik, the President of Behbud Association, highlighted Behbud's ongoing efforts in economically empowering women from marginalised communities. She emphasised the positive impact Behbud has had on thousands of women and their families and stressed the importance of investing in women for the future of communities and the country.

The participants said events like the Handicraft Bazaar not only promote sustainable tourism but also introduce the talents of home-based workers and women artisans to a global audience.

Behbud Association President Abida Malik said Behbud has been steadily working in the pursuit of the economic empowerment of the women from the most overlook communities of Pakistan. “Over the years, it has touched the life of thousands of women and their families in a very positive way.”

Published in The Express Tribune, April 8^th, 2024.