Imran

I have a shawl guy. His name is Imran. He's the only one, I'd ever buy a pashmina shawl from. Somehow, it sounds as if I buy a lot of pashmina shawls. Compared to many others, I probably do. But most of all, I just really like Imran.

I've known him for 8-9 years and I've posted about him before because Allah is looking out for our friendship. (My first writings about Imran)

Yesterday, we also met him at Dilli Haat. We being Laila, Meera and me. As usual, Imran suddenly appears. Hugs are shared, people introduced and Imran invites us for a drink. Then follows a long talk about Kashmir and the problems the locals are facing in their struggle to live a peaceful life in their beloved land. Imran is always able to talk about Kashmir. About the scenery, which you wont find equal anywhere else in the world. About the food that are richer, plentier and cooked with more passion than anywhere else. And hence, he would like Kashmir to become a more normal place to live. I know a little about the problems in Kashmir, but Meera is a true expert and her and Imran had a very good conversation. If it had been up to the two of them, this conflict would have been solved in mutual respect in a few hours (ok, perhaps days).

I've been invited to Kashmir several times and have so far been rather hesitant, because no insurance companies or foreign ministries will approve. On the other hand, Imran is right when he's pointing out that they never will and that he'll be my insurance instead, knowing the area and the risks there. Point is, I've promised to come to Kashmir next time I get here.

And of course Imran has some beautiful shawls of really good quality and for a very reasonable price. 8 years ago his shawls were the best and cheapest. They still are. Laila bought 13.