Handcrafted Treasures from Sukkur

Exploring Sukkur's flourishing women-led craft

Embroidered Textile from Sindh, Cotton (1890/1950)Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum

Sukkur: Bridging Trade, Agriculture, and Climate Shifts

Sukkur grew in importance under British rule as a commercial trading hub for fabrics and still maintains a diverse agricultural landscape. Climate change, however, has played a significant role in affecting the farming and cultivation of the land.

A second shot of a woman sewing a quilt in Sukkur (2023)SOCH Outreach Foundation

The city of Sukkur has a rich history and is home to various traditional crafts that have been passed down through generations. Most local women are engaged in handicraft work, creating beautiful intricate designs for cultural clothing or homeware.

Two women sitting and sewing together in Sukkur (2023)SOCH Outreach Foundation

Among these vibrant, colorful crafts can be found handwoven baskets, quilts known as Ralli, carpets, rugs, shawls, and decorative plates. These are then sold to local markets across Pakistan.

A handicraft basket made by women in Sukkur (2023)SOCH Outreach Foundation

The women of Sukkur are highly skilled at their craft. They design detailed geometric patterns such as the famous Sindhi Ajrak block print. Apart from exquisite embroidery, they are also experts at mirror or 'shisha' work which involves attaching pieces of mirror to fabric.

A shot of a woman sewing a handicraft basket in Sukkur (2023)SOCH Outreach Foundation

Many women in Sukkur and rural parts of Sindh are engaged in this field of work to generate a source of income and support their families. Young girls are often taught the art of handicrafts at an early age and work with the women of the family.

A woman stitching together a shirt in Sukkur (2023)SOCH Outreach Foundation

The meticulous and diligent crafting techniques of the women of Sukkur have contributed greatly to preserving Sindh's culture and traditions, producing stunning creations that are found only in Pakistan.

Credits: Story

SOC Films Team

Creative Director: Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy
Producer: Sameer Khan, Huma Shah
Associate Producer: Sara Sharif
Research Associate: Sara Sharif
Project Manager: Quratulain Khalid
Photography: Faizan Ali
Photography Editor: Faizan Ali
Exhibit Writers: Samar Ather
Exhibits: Sameer Nazim

Credits: All media
The story featured may in some cases have been created by an independent third party and may not always represent the views of the institutions, listed below, who have supplied the content.
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