Lok Mela: A Lifeline for Pakistan’s Fading Traditional Crafts
News Desk
Islamabad: The Lok Mela festival has transformed from a celebration into a vital support system for Pakistan’s diminishing traditional crafts. This event allows artisans from across the country to display their creations, earn recognition, and preserve their ancestral legacies.
In an era of rapid modernization, centuries-old crafts are at risk of extinction. Lok Mela serves as a beacon of hope, attracting a significant number of young artisans eager to learn the trade from their elders.
Read More: https://thepenpk.com/sindhs-folk-art-steals-the-show-at-lok-mela/
Samia Inam, a wholesale cloth entrepreneur, shared her experience of employing women from Bahawalpur to produce hand-embroidered garments. Despite the growing preference for branded outfits, Samia believes that the uniqueness and durability of hand embroidery are regaining popularity.
Other artisans, like Naeem Soomro from Sindh, showcased Kashi Kari products, while Shahid Hussain from Khairpur emphasized the need for government support to ensure the survival of labor-intensive yet culturally significant crafts.
Despite challenges, Lok Mela provides hope by connecting artisans with larger audiences and promoting the preservation of Pakistan’s cultural heritage.
