Abida’s Artistry: A Wood Carver’s Tale from Ghizer to Lok Virsa

News Desk

Islamabad: The ongoing annual Folk Festival at Lok Virsa, Islamabad, is not just a celebration of culture but a testament to the rich and diverse heritage of Gilgit-Baltistan. This region stands out for its cultural diversity and pluralism, providing visitors with a unique and immersive experience.

The Gilgit-Baltistan pavilion at the festival boasts a contingent of over 35 individuals, including master artisans, folk artists, folk musicians, and officials.

Among the talented craftspeople, Abida Ameen from Ghizer holds a special place. Learning the art of wood carving from her mother at the age of 17, Abida contributes to the sophisticated and intricate woodwork that is a hallmark of the rich culture of northern Pakistan, particularly the Hunza Valley. Her participation in various artisan festivals reflects her dedication to preserving and showcasing this traditional craft.

Another notable artisan, Musa, is a master craftsman specializing in stone carving. He skillfully creates traditional stone cooking pots, which are integral to the culinary practices throughout Gilgit-Baltistan.

Historically, Gilgit-Baltistan has been a crossroads of civilizations, situated at the convergence of the Pamirs, the Karakorum, and the Hindukush mountain ranges. This unique location has made it a melting pot of cultural influences. Despite geographical isolation, the people of Gilgit-Baltistan have maintained a way of life centered around agriculture and livestock.

The region is home to a multitude of cultural entities, ethnic groups, and diverse backgrounds. This cultural diversity is a result of Gilgit’s strategic location, giving rise to a multicultural and multilingual society. The people of Gilgit-Baltistan, with their various lifestyles and attitudes, exemplify a pluralistic society that has thrived in harmony for centuries.

The area harbors diverse and endangered mountain cultural traditions, with a historical connection to a life revolving around agriculture and livestock. The ongoing Folk Festival provides a platform to showcase and celebrate these unique cultural aspects.

As part of the festival activities, a cultural evening specifically focused on Gilgit-Baltistan’s indigenous folk culture unfolded. Renowned singers performing in Shina, Khuwar, Wakhi, Brushiski, and Gojali languages added a musical dimension, enriching the celebration of this vibrant cultural heritage.