Hyderabad's Iconic Numaish: A Celebration of Culture, Shopping, and Nostalgia
For decades, Hyderabad’s beloved Numaish exhibition has been a must-visit destination, blending shopping, culture, and tradition. This annual fair is a place where dreams come alive, offering visitors a chance to explore unique products from across India. Women, in particular, are drawn to the exquisite Kashmiri, Lucknowi, and Rajasthani apparel, making it a hub of Khwahish (desire), Numaish (exhibition), and Farmaish (request).
One such visitor, teenager Mariya Kulsum, captured the spirit of Numaish perfectly. Emerging from a Kashmiri stall with her arms full of traditional dresses, her excitement was evident. Scenes like these are common at the fair, often shared on social media, where women are seen enjoying their shopping while men carry their bags. Artisans and traders from all over the country come to Numaish to display their unique products, with Kashmiri stalls being the most popular. Visitors eagerly explore authentic shawls, embroidered bags, and handwoven fabrics. Lucknowi and Rajasthani stalls, featuring intricate Chikankari embroidery and colorful prints, are equally captivating.
Shoppers have nothing but praise for the products on offer. Divya Kathri, one delighted visitor, said, “The Kashmiri clothes here are unmatched in quality. It feels like a piece of Kashmir has come to Hyderabad.” Another shopper, Anil Neelam, appreciated the elegance of Kashmiri designs, saying, “These clothes are so refined, less flashy than Hyderabadi styles.”
A Legacy of Tradition Since 1938
Numaish, officially known as Numaish-e-Masnuaat-e-Mulki, has been a part of Hyderabad’s cultural heritage since 1938. Now called the ‘All-India Industrial Exhibition,’ it spans 45 days and features over 2,000 stalls. Traders from all corners of India, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, come to showcase their products. Around 250 Kashmiri stalls offer everything from shawls and leather jackets to dry fruits and embroidered goods. Stalls from Rajasthan, Delhi, Lucknow, and Gujarat also contribute to the fair’s diversity.
For Hyderabadis, Numaish is more than just a shopping event—it’s a part of their lives. Asra Imran, a regular visitor now in her forties, shared, “I’ve been coming here since I was a child. It’s the one place where you can find unique items that are hard to get elsewhere in the city.”
Nostalgia in Every Lane
Numaish is steeped in nostalgia, offering more than just shopping. Visitors strolling through its lively lanes are greeted by timeless melodies from legends like Mohammed Rafi, Kishore Kumar, and Lata Mangeshkar. These tunes evoke cherished memories for many. Mujeeb Khan, a long-time visitor, reflected, “These songs remind me of coming here with my parents. Now, even as an adult with my own kids, every visit feels timeless.”
A Feast for the Senses
Beyond the shopping, Numaish is a sensory delight. The fair features thrilling joy rides, fun games, and delicious Hyderabadi food like kebabs and Haleem. The vendors, speaking in the warm Deccani dialect, add a special charm to the experience, drawing crowds with their wit and hospitality.
From Iranian carpets and jewelry to home decor, Numaish offers something for everyone. Whether you’re shopping for unique treasures or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, this iconic fair is a celebration of art, culture, and joy. Year after year, Numaish continues to be a bag of happiness for all who visit, leaving them with memories to cherish long after the fair ends.
