PESHAWAR: Waistcoats are the tuxedos of Pakistan and a prominent part of Pashtoon culture, with many believing Eid is only complete in Peshawar with a waistcoat, a shalwar kameez and traditional Peshawari chappals (sandal).
“It is a part of our culture and it is necessary to buy a new waistcoat and Peshwari chappals every Eid,” one of the men shopping at the Chitrali Bazaar told Aaj News.
With Eid fast approaching, many are flocking to the bazaar to buy waistcoats and Peshawari chappals but this time around, it is a bit more difficult. Prices have increased since last year and the same waistcoats that were available for Rs700 have gone up to Rs1,200, while Peshawari chappals can cost anywhere between Rs1,000 to Rs6,000 depending on the brand.
One of the reasons for the increase in waistcoat prices is due to the fabric being imported from China. Many opt to buy the imported cloth as it makes for a better looking, sturdy waistcoat.
“We import the fabric from China as it makes for a better quality waistcoat, which doesn’t get damaged from regular washing. The cloth falls better and looks better than its Pakistani version. But it is taxed unnecessarily, which has increased the overall price of the product,” one of the shopkeepers at Chitrali Bazaar told Aaj News.
Pakistani fabric is cheaper but it does not last as long.
Ironically, the price of waistcoats is considerably higher if you travel for just 15 minutes and go to the Saddar Bazaar in Peshawar.
Similarly, the prices of Peshawari chappals have also increased before Eid as has their demand.
Apart from inflation, certain chappal brands have come up with marketing gimmicks and infiltrated bazaars. Brands such as Kaptaan, said to be the choice of chappal for former prime minister Imran Khan, or Peshawar Zalmi chappals are able to set prices as they see fit.
Young adults are especially influenced by these marketing decisions, with one chappal brand also touting Indian actor Shahrukh Khan’s Peshawari chappal wearing character from the film Raees.
The cult of personalities has shaken up the market price, making it harder for some people to shop for Eid.
