In the heart of Georgia’s historic Borchalo region, the rhythmic sound of a loom echoes through the home of Mehriban Safarova. At 56, Mehriban has dedicated half a century to weaving Borchalo carpets—a vibrant tapestry of culture and history.
Taught by her mother at the tender age of six, Mehriban’s fingers deftly intertwine wool threads, crafting intricate patterns that tell stories of her ancestors. Each carpet she weaves is more than a work of art; it’s a piece of heritage passed down through generations.
“I remember sitting beside my mother, watching her weave,” Mehriban recalls with a smile. “She taught me not just the craft but the importance of keeping our traditions alive.”
Today, as modernity sweeps through Georgia, traditional arts like carpet weaving risk fading away. But Mehriban is determined to change that. She has opened her home to young apprentices, eager to learn the ancient craft.
“These carpets are our identity,” she says. “By teaching others, I hope to keep our culture alive for many years to come.”
Her efforts are beginning to bear fruit. Local youth are embracing the craft, infusing new ideas while preserving traditional techniques. For Mehriban, this is a dream come true.
“Seeing young people take an interest gives me hope,” she says. “Our stories will continue to be told through the threads they weave.”
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
