By Ramesh Raja
Islamabad
Saher Shah Rizvi’s Tribute to the Women of Karbala Honored in SyriaBy Ramesh Raja
Pakistani artist Saher Shah Rizvi has made history. Her series of paintings, dedicated to the women of Karbala, has been permanently displayed in the holy shrines of Syeda Zainab, Syeda Ume Kulsoom, and Syeda Sakeena in Damascus, Syria. This is the first time any artwork has been exhibited in these sacred sites.
Saher, known as the “Girl with Golden Fingers,” was honored at a ceremony held on October 1st, 2024, at the Shrine of Syeda Zainab. Mr. Mohsin Al Harb, Manager of the Haram of Syeda Zainab, praised her work, saying, “We have never displayed any artwork before, but these paintings will remain in the shrine forever.” Syrian government officials awarded Saher for her remarkable contribution.
Born in Badin, Sindh, Saher’s art highlights the strength and resilience of the women of Karbala, particularly Syeda Zainab, who she describes as “a symbol of resistance and hope.” Her paintings serve as a tribute to the pivotal role women played in the story of Karbala.
This isn’t Saher’s first major achievement. Recently, she held an exhibition titled Hundred Heroes at the Arts Council of Pakistan in Karachi, which celebrated Pakistan’s forgotten heroes and heroines. The exhibition earned widespread acclaim. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she started a campaign to honor these unsung heroes, streaming her art sessions live. Millions tuned in to watch.
Saher graduated with distinction from the Centre of Excellence in Arts and Design, Jamshoro (now SABS). Her art has been displayed in countries including the USA, Italy, Mexico, Malaysia, Indonesia, Turkey, Dubai, Kosovo, and Iran. Over her career, she has received numerous national and international awards, inspiring many young artists and writers with her work.
With 11 years of experience as a professional artist, Saher has also worked as a lecturer in fine arts and spent a decade as a media host and director on Pakistani TV channels. She currently resides and works in Karachi, where her paintings continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Saher’s journey has not been without challenges. After losing her brother, who was a pillar of support in her artistic endeavors, she transformed her grief into a source of creativity. Her series From Pain to Paintings reflects her resilience and artistic brilliance. “Art,” she says, “is a way to preserve history and inspire future generations.”
As her work now graces the walls of these sacred shrines, Saher has not only paid homage to the women of Karbala but has also brought great pride to Pakistan. Her achievements should be recognized.
The Government of Pakistan should honor Saher Shah Rizvi with a national civil award for her extraordinary contributions to art and culture. Her work, both in Pakistan and internationally, deserves greater promotion. She is a true cultural ambassador, and her art inspires millions.
(The author, Engr. Ramesh Raja, PMP, is a Civil Engineer, visionary planner, and literary enthusiast with a passion for art and recreation. He can be reached at engineer.raja@gmail.com.)