Bangle-makers from Hyderabad attracting large crowds

Islamabad
The demonstration of work by a group of female bangle-makers, especially invited by Lok Virsa from Hyderabad, Sindh, remained the focus of attraction at the ongoing ‘Eid Mela’.
Though the festival features various activities like art and craft bazaar, artisan stalls, garments and Hina stalls but women bangle makers form Hyderabad were major attraction. The artisans include Rubina, Irfana and Quratulain accompanied by facilitator Jibran.
These creative women can be seen embellishing glass bangles with the help of different equipment and tools specially made for the purpose. They use this profession as a source of their livelihood and contribute to alleviate poverty among women of their community.
Bangles are a special traditional ornament worn by women. It is a common jewellery item worn by almost all females of all ages on special occasions like Eid, wedding and other festivals. Bangles were also in use in ancient times as bangles made from shell, copper, bronze, gold etc. have been excavated from multiple archaeological sites. These days various types of bangles are available in the market, in different colours, designs and shapes, and made from different materials. Glass bangles coated with glitter and with ‘ghungroo’ hanging to them are liked the most by young girls.
Bangles are an essential element of our culture and tradition. They enhance the elegance of every young girl; a wrist adorned with bangles has a charm of its own. A gift of bangles conveys the message of love and compassion.
Still many people have no idea about the hard and tedious work behind these delicate beauties. There are thousands of households in Hyderabad and adjoining areas where women prepare this colourful jewellery at home at much cheaper price as compared to what is available in the market. The ‘Eid Mela’ provides general public an opportunity to have a look at the process involved in making bangles that adorn Islamabad markets on Eid every year.
The ‘Eid Mela’ organised by the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage (Lok Virsa) is in full swing. It will continue with all its festivities till ‘Chand Raat’. The artisans will perform bangle-making till July 15. They will leave for their hometowns to celebrate Eid afterwards.