Islamabad: Eid Families Mela organized by the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage (Lok Virsa) is in full swing here at Shakarparian.
Though the festival features various activities like art & craft bazaar, artisan stalls, garments and Hina stalls, but the major attraction remains the demonstration of work by a group of women bangle makers specially invited by Lok Virsa for festival from Hyderabad, Sindh. They are Rubina, Irfana and Quratulain accompanied by facilitator Jibran. These creative women are beautifully embellishing glass bangles with the help of different equipment/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. Whatever the value or tradition, bangles are a passion with most females and they let no opportunity to adorn their arms with bangles in matching colours on every occasion.
The Eid Mela will continue with all its festivities till Chand Raat daily from 5.00 to 11.00 p.m. The women bangle makers are here till July 15, 2015 where after they will leave for their hometowns to celebrate Eid.
