Chandigarh, February 22
The love and admiration for India’s unity and peace are not just felt by its people but also by neighboring countries. This was evident from the experiences shared by Afghan artisans at the Surajkund International Crafts Mela. They said they would always remember their time here and believe that India is the best and the most beautiful country in the world.
At stall number FC-24, Asif Yaqubi, a young businessman from Afghanistan selling carpets and rugs, shared his thoughts. He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, businesses are getting great support. He believes that neighboring countries should learn from India. Despite having so many different cultures and religions, people in India live together peacefully with their families. Women have complete freedom to grow and succeed in life. Asif said he has never seen a better country than India.
Asif runs a business named zulkarni and said that carpet making is a major industry in Afghanistan. Men, women, and even children weave carpets from sheep’s wool in their homes. These carpets are sold not just in India but also in Iraq, Qatar, Iran, Turkey, and China. Along with Asif, Abdul Aziz, Abdul Hakim, and Waheed Ahmadi have also come to the mela. Waheed has set up a jewelry stall.
Waheed said that their carpets range from Rs.10,000 to Rs. 2 lakh. His grandfather, Mohammad Hassan, started the business, and the family has been carrying it forward. One of the most special items in their stall is a portrait of an Afghan woman, priced at Rs. 2 lakh. Asif said that making such detailed artwork takes almost a year.
