Sircilla handloom weaver crafts special shawl featuring portraits of Dubai rulers

RAJANNA SIRCILLA

A unique shawl woven by Sircilla-based handloom weaver Veldi Hari Prasad, featuring the portraits of the Dubai ruler, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler, is set to be displayed during the Bathukamma celebrations to be organised by the Emirates Telangana Cultural and Welfare Association (ETCA) in Dubai on October 11.

Mr. Hari Prasad spent nearly a fortnight weaving the two-metre-long silk shawl on his handloom.

The intricate design features the portraits of Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Deputy Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

According to the organisers, the shawl is intended to reflect the affection and respect of thousands of migrant workers from Telangana living in the UAE towards the ruling family of Dubai, besides showcasing the State’s rich handloom heritage.

Arrangements are being made to present the handwoven shawl to the Dubai ruling family through ETCA representatives in Dubai.

“I worked for nearly 18 hours a day. It took me almost a fortnight to weave the special silk shawl using 26 grams of silver. I consider it an honour to create such a special gift on the organisers’ order for Bathukamma celebrations in Dubai,” Mr. Hari Prasad said.