Three-Day Exhibition Aims to Enhance India-Pakistan Relations

New Delhi: Fashion designers from India and Pakistan are set to showcase a range of textiles and lifestyle accessories here at a three-day fiesta, which aims to enhance co-operation between the two countries.

The event "Shaan-e-Pakistan" beginning September 10 has roped in over 150 exhibitors from both the countries.

"This is a common platform for artisans and designers from both the countries to come together and showcase their talent," Muhammad Irfan Tarar, Minister (Trade) High Commission for Pakistan said in New Delhi on tuesday.

The event, expected to bring a huge delegation from Pakistan, is part of the larger aim of its associates -Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), Karachi Chamber of Commerce and High Commission of Pakistan - to further build on the efforts of the governments of Pakistan and India to normalise trade relations between the two countries.

"This event is on the lines of our Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's vision of peace for development and development for peace. We support and encourage this event," Mr Tarar said.

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The cultural initiative is set to host Pakistani designers as well as brands and Indian designers.

"I love to introduce Pakistani culture in India and I take so much back from India to my home country. I feel so happy and safe in India, it's like my second home! With this initiative I want people to experience the same and I am very glad that Pakistani diplomats have been very supportive of the platform," Huma Nassr, curator of Shaan-e-Pakistan said.

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The exhibition, coinciding with the onset of the festive season plans to introduce Pakistani trousseau teamed with Indian aesthetics.

"I am glad that I have participated in this event. I am excited to see the outcome of this event. In a small way I am helping the countries to come together," Poonam Bhagat, an Indian designer said.

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The event is scheduled to kickstart with a gala night 'Ek Shaam Pakistan ke Naam' with performances by qawaali legend Amjad Sabri of the Sabri Brothers.

Celebrity chef from Pakistan Gulzar Hussain and Zakir and Osma Jalali from India are expected to rustle up delicacies from both the countries.

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Designated lounges for fashion, textiles, jewellery, lifestyle products, accessories and even furniture have been planned at the expo.

"Indian markets love for Pakistani clothing results in my returning to India every year around the festive season.

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Diwali is integrated into our brands annual calendar just like Eid. In so many ways I feel we celebrate both occasions because of the efforts and individual collections that are made for both events and target customers," said Sahar Atif, an eminent Pakistani designer.

Designers from West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, the North East, Bhagalpur and Maharashtra are set to participate in the show. Embroideries ranging from the latest digital prints to Multani, Tarkashi and Ralli besides Chikankari, Phulkari, Mukesh, Zardozi and alike is set to be showcased.

"Top designers from Pakistan -- Hassan Sheheryar Yasin (HSY) the king of couture, Umer Sayeed the pioneer, Zainab Chottani the queen of great signature series, Saher Atif are included.

"Jewellery from both side will be the main attraction especially the gold bangle maker and the designs from both the countries has its own karigirii," Nassr said.

A wide range of ensembles in pret, couture and semi formals are also set to be showcased.

"Real Pakistani ethnic fusion includes traditional work in modern cut like gharara and complete zardozi and gotta patti work silhouette.

"Our special shalwars and cigarette trousers which compliment shirts and long flowy pure silk dupatas will be showcased. Pure chiffon is our main displayed line on which the flows and conceptual designs are created," Nassr said.