The opening of Pakistan’s first textile museum, The Haveli, is a milestone for the cultural scene, offering a new platform for the country’s heritage to be celebrated and preserved…
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Textiles have always been an expression of culture, history, and the stories of people who create them. Each piece holds memories, traditions, and craftsmanship that connects us to the past. Museums play a special role in preserving and sharing these stories, making it possible for us to understand and appreciate the art behind them.
Recently, I had the pleasure of attending the grand opening of ‘The Haveli’, Pakistan’s first museum dedicated entirely to textiles. Situated in the bustling area of KDA in Karachi, this is a new gem in the city’s cultural scene, offering a unique experience for anyone interested in the rich history and artistry behind textile traditions. The museum was brought to life by Nasreen Askari, a renowned textile expert and the co-founder of Mohatta Palace Museum. Her dedication to showcasing Pakistan’s diverse textile heritage is clear in every corner of the museum. The building itself, designed by the well-known architect Habib Fida Ali, is a piece of art. It combines modern design with a sense of elegance, creating the perfect space to display the stunning collection inside.
The inaugural exhibition, ‘A Coat of Many Colours’, immediately captivated me. This exhibit features about sixty incredible textile pieces, each one telling its own story. The objects highlighted the invaluable contributions of minority communities to the textile traditions of Sindh. As I walked through the galleries, I was amazed by the details and the skill that went into every piece. The exhibition sheds light on the artisans who created these masterpieces, many of whom were from communities that are often overlooked in historical narratives.
Nasreen Askari, who also chairs the family foundation behind the project, shared her personal connection to the museum. “This is the culmination of a lifelong dream of mine,” she said. “To share the extraordinary creativity of the artisans of this region with the city of my birth.” Her passion was evident in every part of the museum. As I explored, it was impossible not to agree with her when she said, “Sindhi embroidery is amongst the most skillful in the world.” The textiles on display truly proved this statement, showcasing the talent and dedication of the artisans.
What struck me the most about the exhibition is how it challenged the usual perspectives on Sindh’s textile history. It didn’t just showcase the beauty of the textiles; it brought attention to the often-ignored contributions of minority communities in the region. These artisans, whose work has shaped Sindh’s culture, are finally being recognised for their immense skill and creativity. It’s a powerful reminder that the beauty of a culture is shaped by the diversity within it.
The exhibit is spread across five purpose-built galleries, each focusing on different aspects of textile history. The pieces, some of which are over a century old, offer a glimpse into the past. I was particularly struck by how these textiles tell stories not only of the communities who made them but also of the region’s history and its connections to neighbouring areas. Some of the pieces are from Sindh, while others come from Rahim Yar Khan in Punjab and Kutch in India. The blend of influences from these regions really shows how connected their histories are, with a shared heritage that ties them all together. It was refreshing to see these textiles finally displayed for the public, as many of them have previously been exhibited abroad.
For so long, access to these extraordinary pieces was limited within the country, and now they are available for everyone to appreciate. The exhibition is set to run until November 2025, so there’s plenty of time for anyone interested to experience the beauty and history of these textiles.
The Haveli’s mission doesn’t end with this exhibition. The next one will feature textiles from the Khyber region, and I’m already looking forward to it. Two of the five galleries will feature permanent displays of heritage textiles from across Pakistan. The museum’s goal is to preserve and share the country’s textile traditions, and with each new exhibit, it’s doing just that.
One of the things I appreciated most about the museum was its peaceful atmosphere. The museum goes beyond displaying artefacts - it’s a place where you can pause, reflect, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. There’s a lovely landscaped garden where you can unwind after exploring the galleries. The gift shop offers a selection of textiles and souvenirs, and light refreshments are available. The museum has a nominal admission fee, making it an accessible outing for anyone interested in learning more about the textile heritage.
But the museum goes beyond showcasing textiles - it tells the stories of diverse cultural history. The exhibition reminds us that a country’s true richness comes not just from its places, but from its people and the traditions they carry. As I walked through the galleries, it was clear that the more we understand and appreciate each other’s cultures, the stronger our bond as a nation becomes.
The opening of this textile museum is a milestone, offering a new platform for the country’s heritage to be celebrated and preserved. If you’re in Karachi, I highly recommend visiting this wonderful locale. Whether you’re a fan of art, history, or simply curious about textile traditions, it’s a place you won’t want to miss.