The Reconstruction of Heritage by Fahad Hussayn
Our nation is endowed with a large number of ancient sites and historic structures, making up for its diverse and rich cultural heritage, that in turn is a source of our identity and a valuable source of community empowerment. This is why Hussayn believes in the concept of reconstruction of heritage, not just its preservation. In his own words, his latest Eid Lawn Collection ‘SHAJ’RAHH’ and its accompanying fashion film ‘BABULAA’ is an effort to ‘reconstruct’ heritage not just to ‘preserve’ it, i.e. it’s an effort to relive the glorified days of the treasured past. It’s a tribute to local craftsmanship and a celebration of the soulful artistry of South Asian craftsmen. Hussayn takes pride in the fact that his collection, along with the props and jewellery used in his fashion film, are all made in Pakistan and thus true to its native spirit. He wants to promote everything Pakistani through his work.
For this purpose, Hussayn has partnered with companies like Jawa Paints under his eponymous label, in two of his major projects i.e SAO BANJARA and SHAJ’RAHH, in order to restore two revered buildings of great historical importance - Wazir Khan Baradari and Shalimar House.
Wazir Khan Baradari is an old Mughal building right next to the Punjab Library located on Mall Road where Hussayn’s record-breaking campaign Sao Banjara came alive amidst a theatrical performance. Jawa Paints was responsible for painting the entire building and its facade, along with finishing and decorating the huge floor length curtains, to match the complementing royal furniture and create an exquisite Mughal architectural look. Similarly for the campaign Shaj’Rahh, the Shalimar House next to Shalimar Gardens was refurbished completely and an old, empty heritage house was turned into a grand heirloom mansion with a post-colonial architecture juxtaposed against colonial influences, to depict the artistic influences over the course of time. Both of these artistic renderings were a tribute paid by Hussayn to the glory of our heritage.
His films are thus a lesson in history as much as they are a source of entertainment. His record-breaking fashion film ‘Mera Jora’ that has crossed over 1.5 million views in 2 months, talks about the history of the glamorous South Asian bridal dress and how wearing it is a bestowal of honor and grace for a woman. It is a treasure chest of emotions, traditions and cultural values that the bride inherits from her family.
A view of the place before Jawa Paints reconstructed it.
So Hussayn’s effort to create that old world experience either through his designs or through his shoots, is a way to make our lost heritage come back to life and thrive amidst modernity. All of his work is inspired by his deep desire to promote the brand of Pakistan itself and making sure that we stand tall and pride of what makes us Pakistani.
