PESHAWAR: Near the narrow lanes of Namak Mandi, the rhythmic tap of a cobbler’s hammer signals a tradition centuries old. A left turn leads into Chappal Bazaar, where rows of shops display Peshawari chappals in every shape, color, and size. Locals mingle with tourists, snapping photographs, recording videos, and selecting souvenirs to take home.
At the heart of this bustling market sits Haji Nooruddin Shinwari, known across Peshawar nd far beyond as Chacha Nooruddin, the man widely credited with transforming a humble tribal sandal into globally recognized footwear.
For more than five decades, Nooruddin has worked from his modest shop, which has become a regular stop for politicians, celebrities, athletes, and foreign visitors. Its walls serve as a living archive of Pakistan’s social and cultural history.
In 1992, Nooruddin crafted an intricate Panjadar design for former prime minister Benazir Bhutto. Former President Arif Alvi later commissioned pairs for himself and his wife.
West Indies cricket legend and Peshawar Zalmi captain Darren Sammy became such an admirer that he helped introduce the chappal to audiences in the Caribbean. World champion British-Pakistani boxer Amir Khan also visited the shop during his time in Pakistan, joining a long list of distinguished patrons.
Each year, as the Pakistan Super League season begins, Chacha Nooruddin presents the entire Peshawar Zalmi squad with his signature chappals. A gesture that has become a quiet tradition of its own.
From Peshawar to the world
While the semi-closed leather sandal has long been synonymous with Pashtun culture, its global popularity and, at times, appropriation can largely be traced back to Chacha Nooruddin’s influence.
In 2014, British fashion brand Paul Smith released the “Robert Sandal,” effectively a Peshawari chappal under a different name, priced at $400. Following criticism over cultural appropriation, the brand later amended its description to acknowledge that the design was “inspired by the Peshawar Chappal.”
In 2019, French luxury house Christian Louboutin unveiled a similar style, further highlighting the global appeal of the traditional footwear.
Nooruddin’s dedication to his craft has not gone unnoticed at home. In March 2024, he was awarded the Presidential Civil Award, Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, for his contributions to the culture and craftsmanship of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, marking the first time a cobbler from Chappal Bazaar received such a national honor.
The original design, centuries old, was shaped by the rugged terrain of the region and long worn by Pashtun men. Today, it is increasingly being embraced by women as well.
“I have trained myself in designing for women, and there are a few patterns I make that suit them,” Nooruddin said.
“It’s good that they are also embracing the chappal,” he added, noting its traditionally male association.
Despite international recognition and orders from the United Kingdom, the United States, and Gulf countries, Chacha Nooruddin remains firmly grounded. He prioritizes craftsmanship over scale, often taking up to three days to hand-stitch a single premium pair rather than turning to mass production.
Holding a needle against a piece of deep-brown leather, he reflects quietly on his life’s work.
“This isn’t just a shoe,” he said. “It is the identity of Peshawar. As long as I have my health, I will keep this identity alive.”
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