Friendship Colours of the Chars opens first outlet in capital

Friendship Colours of the Chars, a concern of non-government organisation Friendship, has launched its first retail shop in the capital's Banani area.

The shop features an exquisite line of handmade and natural-dyed clothing, handcrafted jewellery and artisan boats.

BGMEA President Dr Rubana Huq inaugurated the outlet as the chief guest on Thursday.

Ms Mia Seppo, Resident Coordinator of the United Nations, was present at the programme as special guest.

“The handicrafts displayed here are made with the skills of the women from the most remote and isolated riverine islands(chars) in Bangladesh," said Runa Khan, founder and executive director of Friendship.

"We give them skill and opportunity while they give their creativity and craftsmanship," she added.  

Char women are helping Bangladesh uphold its culture and tradition, while empowering themselves to build their social identities , Runa Khan observed.

“What makes the truest difference is how our products are made, particularly when it comes to fabrics. Only traditional techniques of weaving (handlooms), dyeing, printing and embroidery are used. All materials used are pure cotton and silk. Most of all, the colours applied are 100 per cent natural/vegetable dye or Azo Free. Our fabrics are of which you would enjoy wearing, as our beautiful weavers enjoy creating,” said Nazra Mahjabeen Sabet, assistant director of Nodi Limited, a Friendship enterprise.

Friendship began its journey by working with vulnerable women from remote communities on chars. Women from these marginalised communities received free trainings on weaving and producing handmade, natural-dyed clothes and handcrafted jewellery which are now available at the store.

The NGO helps char women learn technical skills and earn substantial income to provide for their families by applying them.