Naiza Bazi: The Spirit of Tradition

This acrylic handmade painting captures the vibrant Indo-Pak cultural heritage, focusing on the traditional sport of "Naiza Bazi" (Tent Pegging). In this dynamic scene, a mounted horseman rides at full gallop, wielding a sword or lance to pierce and carry away small ground targets, symbolizing a tent peg. The sport, especially popular in Punjab, Pakistan, is depicted with horses adorned in vibrant colors, and riders celebrating their victory to the rhythmic beats of the Dhool, a large percussion instrument. The painting celebrates this energetic sport, often performed during annual carnivals called Mela, typically around the wheat harvesting season, where such events bring communities together in joyous celebration.