Stalls, cultural performances and live craft demonstrations bring Sindh’s traditions to life
KARACHI:
The Sindh Craft Festival 2025 opened at Port Grand on Friday, transforming the waterfront into a showcase of the province’s cultural identity. With more than 100 stalls displaying Ajrak, Ralli embroidery, beadwork, pottery and other traditional crafts, the three-day event places women artisans at its centre, celebrating the skills that have shaped Sindh’s artistic legacy.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah inaugurated the festival and was welcomed by Sindh Minister for Culture Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah, Culture Secretary Khair Muhammad Kalwar and senior officials. “Sindh’s culture and arts are our identity,” he said, noting that the festival “not only promotes our centuries-old heritage but also highlights the creative skills of local craftsmen, especially women artisans.”
He toured the stalls, meeting artisans and appreciating their work, and emphasised that supporting local talent is a shared responsibility. The festival, he added, is not merely an exhibition but “a celebration of Sindh’s culture and traditions.”
The opening day unfolded like a walk through the province’s cultural past — from displays of Sindh’s history, costumes and literary heritage, including books by Sheikh Ayaz, to tributes honouring the land of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar and Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai. Sufi music by Sanam Marvi and other folk performers filled the venue, setting the tone for a weekend steeped in storytelling, craft and community.
Live demonstrations offered a glimpse into village life: artisans weaving charpoys, preparing lassi and reenacting traditional wedding rituals. Visual representations of Mohenjo Daro drew particular attention, becoming one of the event’s standout attractions. The festival also featured craft selections from other provinces to encourage cultural exchange and promote inter-provincial harmony.
Read more: 8th Sindh Literature Festival opens in Karachi
Across the grounds, the craft exhibitions remained a major draw. Stalls displayed Ajrak and Ralli patchwork alongside fine embroidery, leatherwork, pottery, jewellery, brass pieces, Hyderabadi bangles, blue pottery and shell and marble decorative items. Master craftsmen demonstrated techniques passed down through generations, drawing clusters of visitors eager to watch the process up close.
Music continues to anchor the festival throughout its three days. Folk music and traditional dances, including Leva, Dandiya and Matka, animate the evenings, while traditional otaaq setups and cultural models add depth to the atmosphere. The concert lineup features Sanam Marvi, Khumariyaan, Rajab Faqir, Tufail Sanjrani, Deeba Sahar, Farzana Bahar, Owais Jaman, Khushboo Laghari, Mumtaz Molai, Asghar Khoso, Ali Gul Mallah, Nidhra Mughal, Zubair Rehman and Salamat Sehrab Faqir.
Organised by the Sindh Department of Culture, the festival aims to spotlight the province’s traditional craftsmanship and artistic legacy. It will continue until November 30.
