A step to bring people together

More of similarities, less of differences

Indian Customs delaying Pakistan troupe’s clearance left a bad taste

India and Pakistan, the two names pronounced together arises mixed sentiments in people’s heart. Some say we are enemies. But apart from a few compulsive agitators, people from both the countries are always eager for an affable and peaceful relationship with each other. Even the perpetual tussle at the borders never seems to cross the threshold of love in their heart.   

Nothing can impede people’s fervour to get engaged together in any kind of exertion that can strengthen the bond between the two neighbouring countries. “Shaan-e-Pakistan”, an event recently held in New Delhi, was one such step ahead in that direction. Organised by Pakistani designer Huma Nassr who has been associated with India since many years, the show highlighted the common thread between the two countries. With music, food and fashion, it brought in focus the similarities which India and Pakistan have.

“With this event, we aim to strengthen the relation between the two countries. We wish both the countries find their way to start a new journey together,” says Nassr, who believes that positivity in mind and heart can work in the direction of bringing peace. 

Abdul Basit, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to India, said: “This is a brilliant idea to bring Pakistani and Indian food masters, musicians and fashionistas together. We hope both the countries can overcome the differences and settle their disputes and usher in a new era of peace and development.”

“Ek Shaam Pakistan Ke Naam” featured a live musical concert by acclaimed qawwal Amjad Farid Sabri and his troupe on the inaugural day. The evening also served sumptuous food from the two Punjabs, on both sides of the border, curated by celebrated chefs Gulzar Hussain from Pakistan and Osama Jalali from India. The food took guests’ palate through sub-continental cultural journey. According to Jalali, the food that was served showcased the concept of “unity in diversity”. Hussain, for whom it was his maiden visit,  said: “It is a great experience to work together and learn from each other”.

Everything was not hunky dory and the event had its own share of aberrations. The musical event commenced three hours behind schedule at 11 pm as singer Sabri and his troupe were delayed at Delhi’s airport for over four hours at the customs. The late arrival of the troupe dampened the excitement of over 700 in attendance, impatient to enjoy its rendition. The episode was a case of suspicion about Pakistanis that has engulfed the country.

Disappointed with the conduct of the Delhi Customs, the singer said : “I and my troupe were detained at the airport. We just had our instruments and clothes which were supposed to go through a normal procedure. But they took four hours for that due to which we arrived late at the event. The support from Indians was also disappointing, as most of the audience I saw at the event were Pakistanis and not Indians. I felt a little disheartened.”

Reacting to the whole episode, Sahar Atif, a well-known designer from Pakistan, wonders why the governments can’t initiate peace among themselves when relation between the peoples of India and Pakistan is very much intact and strong.

Atif, who resides some 20-minute drive from the border, wishes she could have the choice to go to Amritsar for having lunch or watch a movie. She says: “Everyone’s lineage here starts from India or Pakistan. We are practically one. But until and unless the two governments don’t initiate steps, we cannot go on a peace rally. And what is the use of having such events if we end up with political situations as we have at the moment. Events cannot change the mindset of the governments. They need to understand that we are neighbours and need to cultivate peace. Why can’t we easily go to a country which is right next door? But this is what they want, I guess.”

But as per the maxim “The show must go on”, the event geared up for its remaining two days line up. The last two days of “Shaan-e-Pakistan” was envisioned to provide fashion talent of both the countries to showcase their craft on a unified stage as a means to create further awareness of the fashion prowess of the subcontinent.

On day 2, the exhibition showcased fashion, accessories, art and craft of the two countries for sale. Many Pakistani designer labels joined hands with Indian designer labels which proved to be an excellent platform, enhancing trade among the two countries and also increasing the accessibility of Pakistani labels into Indian market through B2B interactions as well as by connecting the Indian audience directly with the brands.

“Pakistan is just an extension of India. And events like this may help bring the two countries together. We get to see how in terms of fashion as well, the two countries share resemblance. It’s glad to see how there is a lot of in-house trade between the two countries,” says Jyoti Sachdev Iyer, a Kolkata-based designer, who showcased her creation called 'Audacieux’.

A fashion show was held on the concluding day with an impressive line up of Pakistani and Indian designers. The theme of the ramp was Wagah Border, where a gate divides the two countries. The ensemble ranging from bridals to high-street fashion further highlighted the similar fashion sagacity of the two neighbouring countries. As many as 6 Indian and 8 Pakistani designers showcased their creation at the uniquely crafted show.

But embarking such an event brings many difficulties with it. The participants coming from Pakistan had to face many troubles. Visa, customs, tax payment, getting NOC from the different departments and calls from the various Hindu organisations gave the Pakistanis a tough time while coming and being in India.

Despite all that, Nassr notifies that she will be organising the same show every year on this fixed dates ( September 10 -12) expanding it to other cities as well. She also plans to hold “Shaan-e-Hindustan” in Karachi.

She says: “To initiate this event was not an easy task. There were many issues and we are unfortunate that these things happen. But the Shaan-e-Pakistan is aimed to mend these small things. We will be organising Shaan-e-Hindustan in Karachi in coming February or March. There, the highest talent from India will be showcasing their works.” Nevertheless, all the hassles couldn’t affect their enthusiasm and show resulted in a big success, leaving behind a message of peace, harmony and prosperity.