Preserving Tradition

Thamir Qoda with his wares.

Thamir Yousif Qoda Preserves Tradition One Stitch at a Time

By Hanan Qia

In the heart of the Nineveh Plain, nestled in the ancient town of Alqosh, a masterful craftsman weaves stories and tradition with every stitch. Meet Thamir Yousif Qoda, a man who has dedicated his life to the art of crafting traditional garments that hold the essence of Chaldean, Assyrian, Kurdish, Arab, and Yazidi cultures. His passion for preserving the rich history and culture of this region has made him a beloved figure in the community.

Born in 1968, Thamir Yousif Qoda has deep roots in Alqosh, a town renowned for its cultural significance and historical heritage. With six children to his name, he is not just a devoted family man but also a tireless advocate for the traditions of his homeland.

Thamir’s journey as a tailor began in his childhood when he worked alongside his father in the bustling old bazaar of Alqosh. His fascination with the town’s history and culture, and his love for preserving them, kindled a passion for sewing traditional garments. What started as a hobby turned into a lifelong commitment to craftsmanship.

Garments for All Occasions

Thamir Qoda is a versatile tailor, skilled in crafting a wide array of traditional garments. He seamlessly sews the intricate garments of Chaldean towns like Alqosh, Batnaya, Telskuf, Baqofa, and Telkeif, catering to men, women, and children. Beyond Chaldean attire, he creates authentic Assyrian, Kurdish, Arab, and Yazidi garments. The scope of his work extends even to doll clothes, highlighting his remarkable attention to detail.

These traditional garments are not mere fabric and thread; they carry with them the heritage and stories of generations. Thamir’s garments are worn on various occasions, from weddings to the vibrant town carnivals, Palm Sundays, folklore plays, dancing troupes, school celebrations, artistic festivals, and delegations’ welcoming ceremonies. These garments serve as a bridge connecting the past to the present, and Thamir is the dedicated architect of this bridge.

Connecting Communities

Thamir’s clientele extends far beyond the borders of Iraq. He proudly serves customers from around the world, with reasonable prices that make these garments accessible to Chaldeans and other community members abroad. Many purchase his creations as thoughtful gifts for their loved ones, carrying a piece of their heritage with them, no matter where they are in the world.

Thamir’s reputation as a traditional garments tailor spreads through word of mouth and social media. He is a cherished figure in his community and has become the go-to craftsman for anyone seeking authentic, handcrafted traditional attire in the Nineveh Plain.

Global Connection

The materials for Thamir’s creations are sourced from various countries, highlighting the interconnectedness of cultures. His belts, earrings, and female head turbans rely on materials imported from Syria, Turkey, and China, while his man’s Shmagh (head cover) hails from India. This intricate web of materials represents the collaborative nature of culture and craftsmanship, where borders blur and traditions blend.

Thamir Yousif Qoda embraces modern technology and can work with customers remotely. By receiving a full-length photo and some essential measurements, he ensures that the garments fit perfectly. The flexibility of traditional garments allows for a relatively forgiving fitting process, making remote tailoring an accessible option for those who wish to wear these pieces of history.

Committed to sharing the rich cultural heritage of the Nineveh Plain with the world, Thamer ships his work not only within Iraq but to destinations around the globe, including the United States, Europe, Canada, and Australia. His aspirations reach beyond his homeland, as he dreams of expanding his exports and promoting his products, especially in the USA. Currently, he collaborates with several shops in Sterling Heights, such as “Habeeb, your brother.”

Preserving Tradition in the Face of Challenges

While Thamir’s dedication to preserving tradition is unwavering, he faces several challenges. The migration of his people has resulted in fewer cultural events, diminishing the demand for traditional garments. Additionally, the high cost of materials and the time-consuming, handcrafted nature of his work present hurdles. However, Thamir’s unwavering commitment and the support of his community keep the flames of tradition burning.

In the ancient town of Alqosh, Thamir’s nimble fingers and artistic vision continue to weave the intricate tapestry of history and culture. With each garment he crafts, he reminds us of the enduring power of tradition and the invaluable connections between generations and communities. As we celebrate the artistry of Thamir, we are also reminded of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage, ensuring that it endures for generations to come.