Border Lines

It’s fast becoming an annual event in the city’s cultural calendar. Into it’s third edition,the five-day “Made in Pakistan” fair organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) rolled out this Thursday at Himachal Bhawan. More than 60 exhibitors have brought with them a potpourri of Pakistani products with fabrics for suits in chiffon,georgette and cotton taking the lead. More than 90 per cent exhibitors are selling quintessential Pakistani garments — the long flowing printed kurtas as well as those with intricate and colourful embroidery and “suit pieces” that comprise kurtas,palazzos and chiffon dupattas.

It’s a mix of business and bonhomie as the ladies of Chandigarh and those from across the border can be seen discussing the garments. Prices start at Rs 500 and go upto Rs 4,500. It wasn’t surprising to find the crowds at the ‘jutti’ stall and the one offering dry fruits and “extra strong hing” from Afghanistan at the fair. There’s also a trader who has brought traditional Pakistani kohl. The fair also brings in traders specialising in melamine crockery. Another highlight is an Onyx stonework collection — from figurines to table top pieces. For those looking for Pakistani flavours,a food court offers biryanis,tikkas and so on.

The fair is on at Himachal Bhawan,Sector 28,till March 26.