For centuries, the Qissa Khwani, or storytellers bazaar, has been at the heart of Peshawar's life. The bazaar's name originates from an historic tradition of traders from Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent mingling in the market's crowded tea houses to exchange stories.
But in recent years, Peshawar, capital of the insurgency-plagued northwestern province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has been frequently attacked, and Qissa Khwani has been the target of repeated bombings. Radio Mashaal correspondent Majeed Babar recently visited the bazaar to capture its colors.
Peshawar's Storytellers Bazaar
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Despite threats of terrorist attacks, Qissa Khwani is crowded in the afternoons.
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An artisan carving traditional floral patterns on a copper kettle.
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Finished copper artifacts for sale.
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A martyr's monument dedicated to hundreds of protesters killed by British forces in 1930.
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There are fewer and fewer traditional tea houses in Qissa Khwani.
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Traditional wooden balconies survive in the bazaar.
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Barbecued lamb is a favorite local delicacy.
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Confectionery shops are popular.
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A flower shop in a tiny alley.
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The storytellers bazaar is known for woolen hats called pakol, shawls and waistcoats.
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Mats, brooms and artifacts made from palm leaves still find buyers.
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A shop sells colorful plastic ropes.
