Saadia Batool

Storytelling has been an integral part of the Hazara community, a practice carried on for centuries. Mythological tales and stories were narrated in gatherings of different sub-tribes from various villages within Hazara, passed down from generation to generation, each story told and retold. However, migration and persistent genocide have severely impacted and nearly eradicated these historical practices within the community. “Thousand Tales” refers to these rich traditions of creating and narrating stories. This painting embraces the idea of a manuscript painting style, where narratives are vividly depicted, fostering an intimate understanding of the stories. In this work, a central story unfolds around the main figures in the middle, with each layer representing a different memory. These layers come together to create a multifaceted narrative that honors the storytelling traditions of the Hazara Community.