Arun: Stitching Dreams with Needle and Thread”
In the bustling bylanes of Adalat Bazaar, Patiala city, a legacy of craftsmanship unfolded within the confines of a humble tailoring shop. Arun, a young boy of merely 11 or 12, was introduced to the world of tailoring by his father. The shop, a haven for the art of stitching, beckoned him to follow in his father’s footsteps. However, it was the enchanting dance of threads and the world of embroidery that captured Arun’s imagination.
From Stitches to Artistry
While his father envisioned Arun as the torchbearer of their tailoring legacy, young Arun’s heart yearned for something more. Embroidery, with its intricate patterns and mesmerizing designs, became his muse. Guided by his creative inclinations nurtured since school days, Arun discovered a passion for weaving magic with threads. He honed his skills under the tutelage of a neighboring embroidery shop and soon found himself crafting not just pillows, but a path to his artistic destiny.
In the year 2001, fate dealt a bittersweet hand as Arun’s father passed away. In this moment of loss, Arun’s determination took center stage. Striving to continue his father’s work, he delved into the realm of stitching, pouring his heart into every seam. The world of men’s designer clothing became his canvas, adorned with his skillful touch. Orders for sherwanis, achkans, and distinctive dresses started pouring in. With his expertise in stitching and embroidery, Arun even tailored garments for renowned artists like Gurdas Mann and Harjeet Harman.
The Rise and Fall
As Arun’s reputation grew, he embraced machine embroidery to infuse efficiency into his craft. His distinctive touch and innovative approach found an audience, and his business flourished. Yet, as the winds of change blew, ready-made machine-embroidered garments emerged, challenging the demand for bespoke creations. Arun’s business began to wane, leaving him at a crossroads.
A Dream Manifested
Amidst uncertainty, a dream ignited a spark within Arun. He dreamt of stitching a portrait of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, a vision he realized with fervor. This moment marked a turning point in his journey. His hands sculpted a breathtaking likeness of the revered Guru, awakening a passion for creating art that resonated deeply. Arun’s artistic fervor knew no bounds; he meticulously crafted portraits of Lord Krishna, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, and other dignitaries, taking years to complete each masterpiece.
