From Pakistan with love

Visit to India is more than just a photo-op for Pakistani participants at Bridal Asia.

They may not create a splash in newspaper columns here, but a visit to India is more than just a photo-op for Pakistani participants at Bridal Asia. “There is an emotional bond we share with India,” says Pakistani model Mikaal Zulfikar, who participated in Bridal Asia last year too. Concurs athlete-turned-model Nomi Qamar, who has displayed sharp business acumen in his short career. “We have so much in common,” says Qamar. The former editor of the Visage fashion
magazine has launched Style Duniya, the first 24-hour fashion and lifestyle channel in Pakistan.

Beyond fashion, Indian films fascinate Zulfikar. “I would love to act in Bollywood,” he says. Zulfikar is already doing serials and is revved up about another serial that will be shot in Canada. “Suresh Oberoi is one of my co-actors and I am looking forward to learn from him,” he adds. Usmaan Khan and Nael Ahmed, part of the quartet of Pakistani models, say the fashion scene in India is handled professionally. “Everything falls into place in a fashion show here,” remarks Zulfikar.

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Besides the models, a number of big Pakistani fashion designers are also talking shop at Bridal Asia. Faiza Samee, considered the Ritu Kumar of Pakistan, has showcased her creations here for the past three years. This year, the lady who did clothes at Benazir Bhutto’s wedding, will highlight colour.

Passionate about couture, Samee refuses to do prêt. “I love what I do. Even though it is dying all over the world, I’ll continue to do couture,” she declares. About designers influencing films, Samee says the scene in India is different. “The designs worn by Pakistani stars aren’t what a regular Pakistani would wear in daily life.”

First timer Nael Ahmed is excited about the clothes he will flaunt on the ramp. “In Pakistan it is just sherwanis and salwar kameez. Here, I will wear a dhoti,” he says with a smile. “There will be so much to talk about when I return,” he says
Photos: Rajesh Kashyap