Manish Kumar
Post News Network
Bhubaneswar, Feb 5: The National Handloom Expo which is into its second day Thursday saw an overwhelming response from the public with thousands of visitors thronging the venue. Buyers were seen haggling with vendors for hand-woven clothes at several stalls while were busy having a glimpse of live demonstrations of handicraft works. However, what stood out as the centre of attraction at the expo was the stall selling Kashmiri handloom clothes which wooed visitors with its dexterous craft work and wide range.
Ubaid Lone who came all the way from the Kashmir valley with his collection of famous Kashmiri handloom works had a busy day showing his designs to buyers. “I’m overwhelmed by the response I’m getting here. Many people visited my stall and their admiration for the clothes was evident. The clothes I brought here are all made by me at my home. I have put on display sarees, shawls and stoles. All of them are inspired by Kashmiri design and craft,” said Lone.
Intricately-woven Pashmina and semi-Pashmina (Pashmina combined with silk) clothes are proving to be a huge attraction for visitors. Besides Pashmina work, Lone also has on display his experiments with Ari and needlework. “The best part about my stall is Pashmina clothes. Most people are quite knowledgeable about Pashmina clothing and the quality that comes with it. However, they tend to be a bit warm, so semi-pashmina clothes which also have silk can be used during summers. Many visitors also liked my Ari and needlework on fabric.”
Lone has come to the city with his two brothers who are helping him take care of his Kashmiri stall. The 22-year-old graduate finds the city lively and a good place to do business. “What I have observed from my stay here so far is that the city is very lively and is full of nice people.
Most visitors come here with their families and are not hesitant in spending more if they get good quality products in return. Our work has been appreciated, and besides that, most people have also struck up conversations regarding my hometown and life in Kashmir. It feels like I’ve developed a close bond with this city and its people,” said a smiling Lone.
