Art of Okair sazi





Multan, known for its rich tradition of handicrafts, boasts an exquisite art form called "Okair Sazi," which holds a special place among the crafts of the region, particularly in the realm of leatherwork. "Okair," a term derived from the Siryaki language, signifies the art of embossing. This intricate craft involves creating embossed designs on leather products, especially the traditional footwear known as "Khussa," using special threads known as "Tila."




The process begins with the creation of a design on paper, using a sharp needle. These needles come in various sizes, ranging from 1mm to 5mm, each suited for different design intricacies. Once the design is meticulously crafted on paper, it is affixed to the desired location on the footwear. Subsequently, skilled artisans adorn the leather with embroidery, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.



Niaz Ahmed, a revered figure in this art form, has revitalized "Okair Sazi" and introduced it to a global audience. His innovations have expanded the horizons of "Okairmanship," encompassing religious references, poetry, quotations, imagery, invitation letters, scenic depictions, henna designs, and book titles. These creations are not limited to paper but extend to leather, artificial leather, plastic, and tissue paper.



The sharp needles come in a range of sizes, spanning from 1mm to 5mm, and are honed to perfection using a piece of rock. These needles are sharpened and selected with utmost care, considering both the intricacy of the design and the thickness of the material, be it paper or leather. This meticulous approach ensures that the right tool is employed for the task at hand, resulting in precise and exquisite craftsmanship.









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