August 11, 2005

In the past, only globetrotters sported tattoos. Tattoo parlours have recently mushroomed in Karachi and Lahore and use imported equipment, lead-free inks and follow hygienic antiseptic practices, writes Usman Dawood


Often used to mark rites of passage or initiation into exclusive elite clubs, and displayed as badges of distinction and power, many enthusiasts consider tattoos to be a beautiful and exciting art form in its own right –– perhaps the only one that allows such a physically engaging and personal experience.

Unsurprisingly, interest in tattoos is on the rise in Pakistan, particularly among the young, urban elite. They are keen to explore this exciting arena of self-expression, not just because they are exposed to ink-adorned media celebrities, but also because their financial superiority permits such costly indulgence.

In the past, only globetrotters sported tattoos. The unavailability of skilled and hygienic local artists forced them to avail the sevices of expensive American and European parlours.

The desi tattoo artists that one finds at fairs and markets use substandard ink, low-frequency guns, and usually recycled needles. This obviously increases the risk of blood and skin infections including Aids and hepatitis B and C virus, as well as a great deal of pain and excessive bleeding. The resulting tattoos are also below par, featuring uneven colour distribution and spreading, poor artwork, and rapid fading.

Tattoo parlours have recently mushroomed in Karachi and Lahore. Using imported equipment, lead-free inks, and following hygienic antiseptic practices, they demand five to ten thousand rupees for a small or medium sized tattoo. Intricate and complex designs that involve multiple colours and meticulous shading obviously drive up the rate. These parlours provide a wide range of tattoo designs, but customers can also bring their own pattern and get it etched on their body.

Popular designs include symbols, insignias, stylized caricatures or animals, tribal and ethnic motifs, and names. I do not, however, recommend having anyone’s name tattooed on your body because while your relationship with that person may terminate, your tattoo will not.

When you go for a tattoo, choose your design wisely, because it will become an integral part of your body and persona. Make sure your tattoo artist has experience (most of them display a catalogue of past work), and do check what antiseptic or disinfectant(s) he uses.

Instead of selecting a pattern from one of the stock designs, be creative and original, and use this channel for self-expression to the fullest. Sketch a personal design, ask an artistically inclined friend, or browse the web for possibilities.

Selecting the area is equally crucial depending on whether you want your tattoo to be blatantly visible, or for viewers that are more intimate. Biceps, abs, thighs, shoulder blades, and the lower back are the most common locations.

Of course, the inevitable question is always “How much does it hurt?” It is by no means pleasant, but the thrill is strangely addictive, and while the pain is short-lived, the unique joy of being tattooed lasts forever.

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