Markets bloom with trendy Peshawari sandals

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan receives custom Peshawari sandals as Eid gift

PESHAWAR:

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has received a special Eid gift from Peshawar, in the form of traditional Peshawari sandals, creating a stir in the local markets and on social media.

Ustad Jahangir, a veteran craftsman from Namak Mandi with four decades of experience under his belt, crafted and sent two pairs of the ‘King Sandals’ to India, using imported leather.

Shah Rukh Khan’s family members in Peshawar ordered the bespoke footwear for the actor, who is famously known as King Khan.

Former South African cricket captain Hashim Amla, Daren Sammy, and other cricket stars have also shown their fondness for Peshawari sandals.

The special sandals were meticulously crafted over a month and sent to the Bollywood hero in India. Social media is abuzz with news of Shah Rukh Khan’s Peshawari sandals, and the local market in Peshawar is now witnessing a surge in demand for the “King Chappal”.

Imran Jahangir, the son of Ustad Jahangir, told The Express that they had previously sent Peshawari sandals—a hallmark of the region—to India for Shah Rukh Khan. This Eid, his relatives living in Qissa Khwani Bazaar reached out to have a special pair made, which has been a feather in the cap for the family, the city, and the country.

“It is a matter of pride not only for us but also for our city, province, and country,” Jahangir said. He added that since people learned about the sandals made for King Khan, young fans and admirers have been placing similar orders. The sandals are made with imported leather and are known for their durability against weather elements.

Iqbal, an elder from the Khudadad neighbourhood in the old city, reminisced about Peshawar’s deep connections with Bollywood legends like Dilip Kumar, the Kapoor family, and Shah Rukh Khan.

“Although the Bollywood stars are far from us, their ancestral homes here are treasures that keep their memories alive,” he told The Express Tribune.

Moreover, as Eid shopping fever reaches its peak, the famous bazaar has introduced special Peshawari sandals resembling zebra and snake skins, adding a unique twist to the traditional footwear market.

Traders reveal that the sandals are crafted from a special material that mimics the appearance of exotic skins. The fashionable sandals cater to a niche clientele who order them from various provinces, including Punjab.

The distinct design has caught the eye of fashion enthusiasts, making these sandals a popular choice.

As Eid approaches, Peshawar’s markets are bustling with activity, showcasing a high demand for Peshawari sandals. Namak Mandi, Jahangir Pura, and Qissa Khwani Bazaar offer a wide variety of sandals priced between Rs1,500 and Rs8,000.

The collection includes cut-piece, toe-covered, open-toe, Charsadda-style, Kaptaan sandals, leather sandals, and even denim fabric sandals.

Young customers, in particular, prefer matching Peshawari sandals with their traditional shalwar kameez outfits. These markets are well-stocked, providing many beautiful and durable options that cater to the fashion preferences of the youth.