Solidarity Gesture: Hyderabadis don keffiyehs for Palestine this Eid

Hyderabad: In Hyderabad, the keffiyeh, the traditional scarf, has emerged as a potent symbol of solidarity with Palestine, particularly during the festive occasion of Eid.

As Mohammed Faraz Ahmed from SIO Telangana noted, amidst clampdowns on Palestinian art and symbols of resistance, the keffiyeh has risen to prominence. With its rich history intertwined with Palestinian identity and struggle, this traditional scarf has become a beacon of hope and defiance against oppression.

Solidarity with Palestine

In expressing solidarity with Palestine during Eid, Navaid Hamid, former president of AIMM, underscored India’s enduring commitment to the Palestinian cause.

He urged remembrance of the ongoing plight of Palestinians, emphasising the importance of collective responsibility and compassion.

Our commitment, our responsibility:

Never forget the plight of #Palestinians on this Eid. #EidulFitr2024 #عيد_الفطر pic.twitter.com/aFFTKhYplt

— Navaid Hamid نوید حامد नवेद हामिद (@navaidhamid) April 9, 2024

Hamid’s statement resonates with the sentiments of many Indians who stand in solidarity with Palestine, advocating for justice and peace in the region.

“As India commemorates Eid, it is a reminder to not forget those who continue to suffer, reinforcing the moral obligation to support the oppressed. We should capture the essence of empathy and shared humanity, transcending borders and ideologies. Global struggles are interconnected and it is imperative to stand united in the face of injustice,” said Hamid.

Global expression of Palestinian identity

“The history of keffiyeh is intergenerational. It is about saying we will see a free Palestine. There is nothing offensive about what it stands for, it is a symbol of hope,” said Syed Adnan, a Hyderabadi student.

The keffiyeh’s significance transcends borders, resonating with individuals worldwide who stand in solidarity with Palestine. Originating from Hebron, Palestine, it has become a global emblem of resistance, particularly after the ban on the Palestinian flag.

As Syed Adnan emphasised, wearing the keffiyeh is about advocating for a free Palestine and fostering a sense of hope.

Cultural appropriation or solidarity?

“Yes, it is okay to wear the kaffiyeh and it’s a great way to discover what it is to be treated like a Palestinian,” said Sam Siddiqui to NewsMeter.

“I have never seen this many people wear the keffiyeh, ever. It is a beautiful sign of solidarity. It shows that more people than ever are asking honest questions with open hearts and minds,” said Mustafa Ali, a Hyderabad youngster.

The debate surrounding cultural appropriation is inevitable as the keffiyeh gains popularity outside its traditional context. However, voices like Sam Siddiqui and Mustafa Ali from Hyderabad highlighted its role in sparking conversations and raising awareness about the Palestinian cause. For many, wearing the keffiyeh symbolises a commitment to justice and human rights.

The right way to wear the keffiyeh

“There’s only one right way to wear a Palestinian keffiyeh: in solidarity against oppression. That’s it,” said Mehr Khatri, a Hyderabadi pro-Palestinian activist.

While there are numerous ways to wear the keffiyeh, Mehr Khatri emphasised that the only right way is in solidarity against oppression.

For Palestinians, it serves practical purposes like covering their faces and heads to protect themselves from the sun but for those standing in solidarity, it carries deeper significance as a symbol of resistance.

Where to find keffiyeh in Hyderabad?

Hyderabad offers various avenues to obtain a keffiyeh, including:

- Sahane Abaya and Hijab at Sultan Bazar

- Dubai Burqa collections at Abids

These shops provide opportunities for Hyderabadis to purchase the keffiyeh and show solidarity with Palestine. Additionally, anyone who wants an authentic Palestinian keffiyeh can purchase it online from Hirbawi’s website, with proceeds contributing to Gaza’s aid.

Amongst the ongoing war, Hirbawi remains the only keffiyeh manufacturer from Palestine. In essence, the keffiyeh serves as a tangible expression of support for Palestine, uniting individuals across cultures and borders in their quest for justice and freedom.

“As Eid approaches, the sight of Hyderabadis donning the Keffiyeh serves as a poignant reminder of our unwavering commitment to standing alongside the Palestinian people in their struggle for dignity and liberation,” concluded Mehr.