Mashq-E-Arbaeen Annual Art Exhibition Begins

(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer) Srinagar – Mashq-e-Arbaeen, Dark'e Azadari - a weeklong art exhibition dedicated to the commemoration of Arbaeen - commenced on Monday at Kashmir Art Harbour, captivating art lovers with its rich display of creativity and devotion.

The exhibition, featuring art, photography, calligraphy, and poetry, drew large crowds of art enthusiasts who thronged the venue on Friday to witness its offerings. Now in its 13th edition, the event is curated by Syed Iliyas Rizvi, a craft and heritage consultant.

The exhibition began on August 12, 2024 - corresponding to 17th Safar

Muzaffar, 1446 Hijri - with the theme“Mashq-e-Arba'een ... Dark-e-Azadari”. According to Rizvi, the event brings together works from artists, students, and other creative participants from various educational institutions.

“This year we have a remarkable collection of artworks and photographs, especially from schoolchildren in the Old City, including portraits depicting Muharram processions and young standard-bearers,” Rizvi said. Among the highlights is a striking photograph by Danish Mir, a 10th-class student from Standard Public School, which has become a focal point for visitors.

Rizvi explained that the exhibition aims to explore multiple dimensions of Azadari, reflecting how people and spaces transform during the sacred months of Muharram and Safar.“It is our humble tribute to Imam Hussain (AS) and the martyrs of Karbala through art and other creative mediums,” he said.

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He added that the weeklong event serves as an opportunity to examine the multidimensional traditions of mourning in Kashmir.“Over the next few days, through creative works, we will engage with historical places, meet experts in elegies, poetry, photography, painting, and calligraphy, connect emotionally, and share our own experiences to better understand the traditions of Azadari,” Rizvi noted.

The initiative, he said, is also intended to bring together children, parents, educators, academics, researchers, scholars, and community members to learn about Ashura, Arbaeen, the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) - the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) - and the timeless message of Karbala.

Tracing the journey of Mashq-e-Arbaeen, Rizvi recalled that the exhibition began in the lawns of the University of Kashmir in 2013.“Over 13 editions, we have seen evolution in concept, creativity, and presentation. More than 100 participants have showcased over 500 works during these years,” he said.

Rizvi also said that over the last decade, the exhibition has travelled to major art galleries in Srinagar city, including the Craft Gallery, Art Emporium, and Mahattas Srinagar.

He said,“Srinagar is a World Craft City, recognised by the World Craft Council in 2024 and the UNESCO Creative Crafts Network. Exhibitions like these create opportunities to introduce unknown craftsmen and crafts to people. This way, we can work towards securing our place on the World Craft Map.”

A special section of the exhibition is dedicated to the signs and symbols of Kashmiri Azadari, including a display titled“Seel” - a woollen garment traditionally worn by elegy reciters during Marsiya Khawani in Kashmir.

Irfan Hussain, an Artist who has been part of the exhibition for the last two years, urged fellow art lovers to visit.“It's an enriching experience. It will not only help them learn but also inspire them to participate in the future,” he said.

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