The production of the famous Peshawari Chappal has increased significantly to meet the rising demand for Eid, with prices also climbing daily in Peshawar.
Shopkeepers told The Express Tribune that prices are high this year due to the increased cost of raw materials.
Chappal production is in full swing in the city's historic Namak Mandi, Jahangirpura and several other areas.
Slippers of various designs are being handcrafted in local workshops. These workshops beging producing traditional chappals two months before Ramazan each year to meet demand. While some shoes are custom-made on order, no individual orders are currently being accepted due to the high workload.
Despite rising prices, demand remains strong, as Peshawari Chappals are considered a must-have item for Eid, often paired with shalwar kameez.
"The raw materials used in the manufacture of chappals, including leather, have become more expensive, leading to a higher final price compared to previous years," said a cobbler. He added that chappals are also exported to neighbouring Afghanistan but due to the closure of the Torkham border, that important market has been lost.
He urged the government to take steps to increase trade with Afghanistan, which would help create more jobs locally.
In 2024 The Express Tribune reported that Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan 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 sandalsa hallmark of the regionto 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.
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