Multan Craftsman Keeps Ancient Art Alive
Rasheed says the shift to camel bone was far from easy. The material is tougher, more time-consuming to shape, and physically demanding to carve. As orders declined and costs rose, he struggled to sustain his livelihood and at times considered giving up the profession altogether.
“I thought of leaving this work because it became very hard to survive,” Rasheed said, explaining that learning to handle a new material required starting almost from scratch.
Carving skills in Rasheed’s family date back generations, with Multan long known for its intricate handicrafts. When the use of ivory was outlawed, many artisans abandoned the trade. Rasheed, however, chose to adapt, experimenting with camel bone as a legal alternative while trying to maintain the same level of detail and craftsmanship.
Today, he produces hand-carved ornaments and decorative pieces that reflect the cultural heritage of the region. Despite continuing challenges, Rasheed hopes greater recognition and support for traditional artisans will help ensure the survival of Pakistan’s endangered crafts.