Written by: Mahnaz Shujrah
Posted on: March 11, 2022 | 
| 中文
Tasweerghar founded by Rabbania Shirjeel
Can you imagine having all your favorite small business ideas in front of you, at the same time and in the same space? That’s what being at Haryali Market feels like. From organic products to aesthetic décor to sustainable clothing, Haryali seems to have it all under one roof. There is always some new, something interesting to check out, whether you want to test a product, look for a thoughtful gift or upgrade your lifestyle, Haryali offers you multiple options. Haryali has around four markets each season, between September and March. The last market for this season took place last Saturday on March 5th at Nawab Gardens in Gulberg.
Haryali Market at Nawab Gardens, Gulberg
Born and based in Lahore, Haryali started out a decade ago in 2012, as an idea amongst friends sitting over a dining table. The idea was the brainchild of Mahrukh Beyg and her friend, and it was brought to life by a group of four individuals. The first market was held soon after in 2013. The concept was to bring a lifestyle change and promote healthier habits. Beyg’s personal journey of suffering from various ailments caused by contamination in our food sources was one of the main motivations pushing the idea forward. Hence, the market started off with promoting organic food and small businesses. Back in 2012, entrepreneurial start-ups were trendsetters rather than the norm; it was a struggle to find thirty people, Beyg says. For instance, they did not have a single candle-making vendor till 2017, a business which is now popular.
Pristine 100% handmade soaps
Initially, the venture was called Khaalis Market and the stalls included homemade achaars, crochet items and organic food. In 2014, the group divided into two, and later Mahrukh Beyg rebranded the idea into Haryali (evergreen), and her friend Sundus Usman joined to support the cause. Starting from scratch, Begy realized she needed to diversify to survive. She added a category of “made in Pakistan”, in which she included fifteen cultural stalls by authentic vendors from different parts of the country. “For our first Haryali Market, we gave discounts and concessions just to get enough people on board.”
Hand painted scarfs and scrunchies at My Studio Door
Beyg emphasized how sales are not the objective of the market, but instead it focuses on marketing, networking, and raising awareness. “If we have 150 stalls, then 149 potential buys are already at the market. More than anything else, the market is a great networking opportunity for start-ups. Over the years, I have seen small businesses merging together and growing through partnerships.” With social media increasingly being used as a marketing tool, Haryali provides its vendors unlimited access to market in the same amount of money as a sponsored online campaign, along with the opportunity to engage with competitors and customers to get feedback in real time.
Artist, architect and conservator Zobia Tanvir showcasing her work at Haryali
The noteworthy feature of the market that I observed is the diversity in ages of the vendors, from adolescents to people well in their 70’s. What bonded everyone together was their creativity and passion for their work. “Choosing the vendors is an extremely vital aspect of the market, and I handpick them personally to ensure variety and integrity. This time we had 150 stalls at Haryali, and I personally oversaw 123 them from the moment they came on board till after the market” says Beyg. It is humbling to realize that Haryali is an organically grown venture, with no sponsorships or funding. This sets it apart from some of its competitors, such as Daachi, which is an NGO with a hierarchy and its events are ticketed. Beyg has an ambitious vision for the future; she aims to set up an Entrepreneurial Festival which would showcase 300+ female start-ups. The festival would showcase creative ideas in all aspects of life, ranging from software engineering to robotics and education.
Handmade items at Naari stall
I have been to Haryali previously, but what draws me to visit each time is the element of surprise; each market tends to diversify, bringing with it new ideas and items. This year I was especially impressed with the home décor and interior design ideas, such as the handmade lamps by Naari. In clothing, hand painted dupattas and saris are in fashion, as seen at My Studio Door, and just the perfect outfit for the upcoming summer. It is also always a pleasure to interact with the artisans and artists, for example Zobia Tanvir sharing the inspiration behind her work, and Rabbania Shirjeel passionately talking about Tasweerghar. An architect by profession, Zobia Tanvir is a painter with a distinct style and recognizable color palette; her work exhibits everything from buildings to flowers to portraits. Tasweerghar is an initiative by Rabannia Shirjeel, which provides a platform to photographers, filmmakers and artists. From hosting art residencies to exhibitions to recitals, Tasweerghar is upholding Lahore’s traditions with creatively evolving ideas. Ready-to-eat food stalls are also an integral part of the market, and there is always something exquisite to try. There were lines in front of Khausey by Ayesha, and my personal favorite was the Bhelpuri chaat at Kitchen with Nida.
Gol Gappay and Bhelpuri chaat by Kitchen with Nida
Overall, it is a good outing with friends and family alike, to enjoy the unique things Pakistan and its creative citizens have to offer. Covid has really put things into perspective, and people are coming up with ever more creative ways to use their time, energy, and attention. With the ongoing threats to globalization and the deteriorating economic conditions, it is high time we recognize, support, and encourage local, homegrown businesses. As an enthusiastic Pakistani and a proud Lahori, I am in awe of the work Mahrukh Beyg is single-handedly doing through Haryali by providing a platform to so many budding ventures.
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