PESHAWARI CHAPPAL (SHOES)
Every district has something particular that makes it popular and becomes its cultural identity. A Balochi dress with long pockets, Sindhi ajrak and topi, long moustache of Punjabis and cuisines like paaye or lassi are unique to their respective regions. Likewise, a product that defines Peshawari culture is their prominent Peshawari chappal. It is available in a number of diverse styles without losing its special original design. Worn more on formal occasions rather than informal ones, it is the pride and joy of Pashtoons. Wearing peshawari chappal became a tradition among Pathans ever since it evolved. They also like to wear it on special occasions like parties, Eid and wedding celebrations. It’s one of the most top-selling footwear of Pakistan and is the only one that the majority of Pashtoons are comfortable in. It has indeed become a souvenir of Khyber Pakhtoon Khwa and an identity of Pashtoons.
Peshawari chappal is as old as Peshawari culture. It is so old that its history is lost in ambiguity. The trend of wearing Peshawari chappal has emerged at least over a century ago. When asked, an aged maker of Peshawari chappal said, “It has been here longer than my memory recalls.” The Peshawari chappal got its name from its origins: Peshawar. Mardan, Charsadda, Swat and Peshawar in particular, are famed for manufacturing the best quality and most stylish Peshawari chappals.
Basically, this chappal is an open sandal in which two pieces of leather cut in a specific shape are joined diagonally. It has a strap at the back with a clip to open and close it while the toe remains open. These chappals are completely handmade and offer a large line of variety in color, design and shape.
Prior to 70s, this culture was limited to only Khyber Pakhtoon Khwa but soon after it gained acclaim all around the country. It was so popular among Pashtoons that they started carrying the chappals with them, where ever they used to go countrywide. Soon after, this chappal was well-accepted by the people of other provinces as well. Initially, Peshawar was the hub of manufacturing Peshawari chappal but nowadays, these are being made and worn all over the country. Many huge markets have been established in the main cities of Pakistan like Islamabad, Lahore and especially in Karachi and are doing a great business.
Peshawari chappal has some distinct qualities which makes it better from other footwear. It is made of pure leather of high quality and is free from all types of chemicals. Due to this, one can never be affected by any type of skin infection or skin disease. The pure original leather prevents stench and makes it more comfortable. Thus it can never harm or cause discomfort to anyone’s feet that. Another quality that sets it apart from other footwear is its durability. In this day and age of high inflation, consumers want footwear that can be worn no less than a year. So why would not a person go for durable and comfortable shoes, available in affordable price? The chappal’s cutting, stitching and fitting; everything is done by the manufactures by their own hands and they strive to make the best possible pair of chappal. Once a customer buys a pair and uses it carefully, it can last many years. As the owner of ‘Mardan Store’, located in Nazimabad market, says that “the durability of Peshawari chappal is better than any other footwear.”
Peshawari chappal gives both a traditional look on shalwar qameez and a trendy appearance when worn with jeans. This east-meets-west feature adds to its fame and due to the continuing increase in popularity, businessman have also made it easier to buy online especially for the people abroad. Now, one can easily buy a pair of custom made Peshawari chappal that is just a single click away. In fact many branded stores are also manufacturing Peshawari chappal with a little modification like myoffstreet,
