'Aalishan Pakistan' kicks off; Mahesh Bhatt gives it a thumbs up

Plethora of designs depicting the essence of fashion and with Sufi music in the background created the right ambience when noted Pakistani designers displayed their creations Wednesday at a fashion show, a prelude to Aalishan Pakistan, to support the cause of the girl child.

The four-day lifestyle exposition, starting Thursday at Pragati Maidan here, Aalishan Pakistan will see 300 exhibitors from the neighbouring country will showcase fashion and lifestyle products.

Veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, who supports the cause of girl child, appreciated the endeavour of fashion bridging the gap between the two countries.

"It's great to see fashion bridging the gap between two countries and I am sure this will bring peace too," he said at the event here.

"I have always believed like the Father of the Nation (Gandhi) that only when India and Pakistan will walk through the roads of time like two brothers will the world be a peaceful place to live in. More power to all those who support this vision," he added.

The second edition of expo is part of the larger aim of its organisers - the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (Ficci) and Trade Development Authority of Pakistan - to further build on the efforts of the governments of Pakistan and India to normalise trade relations between the two countries.

Bhatt, who walked the ramp for the Pakistan's textile brand LALA Textiles, took a pot shot at himself saying that he is not Alia (his youngest daughter and actress), but her father.

As a step to support daughters, LALA has associated with NGO Samarpan Foundation in India to uplift the morale of orphan girls by contributing towards their education, building their career to strengthen their confidence and promoting girl child.

Other names who participated in the show were brands like Kayseria, Faiza Samee, Rang Ja as well as designers from Fashion Pakistan Council including Wardha Saleem, Huma Adnan, Deepak Perwani and Farnaz Mustafa.

While each brand offered something unique - be it the beautiful colour combination presented by Kayseria or the playfulness of cuts and fabrics in Samee's designs, but they had one thing in common - local flavour of traditionalism in designs and draping.

However, it was Adnan's creations that had a touch of sensuality in terms of silhouette. From Midriff revealing top, ankle length dresses to backless gowns, she had something to offer for all those women who want to look subtle yet sexy.