Shalwar Kameez Tradition Attracts Shoppers

Sadia Khan

Islamabad: The traditional Shalwar Kameez and Kurta, a perfect fusion of tradition and modernity on offer from the local and international brand outlets, have everything for everyone, young and old, drawing hordes of shoppers on a shopping spree till late into the evening. The buzz of Eid anticipation is there to be felt throughout Khyber-Pakthunkhwa.

Peshawari Shalwar Kameez and Kurtas with rich embroidery work are being sold like hot cakes in the city steeped in culture and tradition. All major markets in the city and cantonment—Qissa Khawani, University Road, Meena Bazaars, Faqirabad, Shafi Market—and others are inundated with customers wanting to buy for themselves and their nearest and dearest for Eid-ul-Fitr.

Top national fabric designers have introduced new varieties of’shalwar ‘kameez and kurta pyjamas’ with eye-catching, colourful designs. To lure buyers, the sellers are offering 15 to 50 percent discounts on various items. This is attracting Eid shoppers to Peshawar from other areas in droves.

‘Shalwar Kameez’ cotton suit is my favourite, and without it, my Eid is incomplete, explained Rafique Khan, a resident of Pabbi. I prefer it because of its comfort and it’s cooling effect in hot summers.

Shalwar kameez with traditional Peshawari Chappal has been widely recognised as a potent symbol of the tradition and culture of Pakistan, especially of Khyber-Pakthunkhwa, and a majority of people in this region prefer it on Eid and wedding occasions.

“I came from Nowshera to buy readymade Shalwar Kameez suits for my sons for Eid ul Fitr celebrations, as prices are comparatively lower than in my city, informed Haider Zaman, a resident of Wapda Town, who told APP at the Deans Trade Centre.

The readymade Shalwar Kurta suit outlets attract low-income groups and government employees in substantial numbers as they are able to make savings of around Rs 1500, which is the average of tailoring for a suit. Haider added that he had also purchased two Shawlar Kurtas for his orphan relatives, doubling his joy.

Ready-made Shawar Kameez and Kurta being on sale in Peshawar are cost-effective and save time for consumers.

The feature has been published on the APP website and reproduced by Sadia Khan.