Kani shawls worth BD1,150 at Autumn Fair

TDT | Manama

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One of the standout highlights of the Autumn Fair was a rare hand-embroidered Kashmiri shawl, valued at over BD1,000, which can take up to two years to complete.

Veteran exhibitor Mohammed Rafeal, who has participated in the fair for 22 years, said some exclusive pieces reach BD1,150, reflecting the skill, patience, and heritage behind each creation.

Rafeal stressed that true craftsmanship remains unmatched, saying every shawl is entirely handcrafted, from spinning the wool to the final Sozoni embroidery.

He explained that some rare Kani shawls are woven using wooden needles, with pashmina wool sourced from Ladakh, a region known for extreme sub-zero temperatures.

“This wool is a gift of nature,” he said.

Long-time customer Um Ali, who has been purchasing Kashmiri shawls for more than 15 years, shared her appreciation for the craftsmanship.

She said the pieces are timeless investments, often passed down through generations, adding that quality and heritage matter more than price.

Beyond Kashmiri craftsmanship, the Autumn Fair also showcased strong international participation. Vendors from India, Syria, Oman, Yemen, and Africa praised the fair’s organisation and visitor turnout, with many confirming their intention to return next year.

First-time African exhibitors reported high demand for natural shea butter from Guinea, alongside traditional baskets and skincare products, while Omani and Yemeni participants highlighted the impact of local marketing and the welcoming nature of the Bahraini public.

Together, these stories underline the Autumn Fair’s growing reputation as a platform where heritage, global trade, and rare craftsmanship meet, reinforcing its status as one of Bahrain’s most anticipated annual events.