Craft regulation initiative organized

Artisans from Kashmir and Central Asia reunited after nearly 500 years in Srinagar for a three-day craft exchange initiative, celebrating shared heritage and reviving cultural connections.The event celebrated Srinagar’s recognition as a “World Craft City” by the World Crafts Council (WCC).

How did Central Asia Influence the Development of Crafts in Srinagar

• Historical Craft Connections: Zain-ul-Abidin, the 9th Sultan of Kashmir (15th century), introduced Central Asian craft techniques to Kashmir with the help of artisans from Samarkand, Bukhara, and Persia. Post his reign, these connections weakened and came to an end by 1947. Located on the historic Silk Route, Srinagar became a melting pot of cultural, economic, and artistic exchanges. This cross-cultural interaction played a vital role in the development of Kashmir’s distinctive crafts.

Craftsmanship Techniques

• Wood Carving: Kashmiri artisans, known for their intricate woodwork, adopted techniques from Central Asia.While Kashmiri woodcarvers used chisels and hammers for detailed designs, Iranian woodcarvers typically employed a single chisel for floral motifs.
• Carpet Weaving: Kashmir’s carpet weaving was profoundly shaped by Persian techniques.The Persian knotting methods, including the Farsi baff and Sehna knots, were incorporated into Kashmiri carpets.  Additionally, Kashmir’s carpet patterns named after Iranian cities like Kashan and Tabriz highlight the cultural ties, with artisan exchanges further enhancing skills and inspiring craftsmanship.
• Embroidery: Uzbekistan’s suzani embroidery was recognized as a precursor to Kashmir’s sozini work. Similarities were observed in techniques, color palettes, and floral motifs. 

World Craft City

• The “World Craft City” initiative, launched in 2014 by the World Crafts Council AISBL (WCC-International) under the WCC-World Craft City Programme, recognizes cities for their contributions to cultural, economic, and social development through crafts.
• The WCC AISBL, established in 1964 as a non-profit organization, aims to enhance the status of crafts in cultural and economic life and promote fellowship among crafts persons through support and guidance.
• Indian Cities: Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir), Jaipur (Rajasthan), Mamallapuram (Tamil Nadu) and Mysore (Karnataka) have been recognized as World Craft Cities by WCC.
• The WCC announced the ‘Seal of Authenticity of the Craft’ for Kashmir’s handicrafts, certifying handmade products from J&K. This initiative aims to provide global recognition and enhance quality in the textile industry. 

Key Crafts of Srinagar

• Pashmina Shawls: Known for their fine quality and intricate handwoven patterns. Pashmina shawls originate from Kashmir, where the Pashmina fabric is hand-spun and hand-woven.Mughal Emperor Akbar promoted the craft by commissioning shawls for the royal family. 
• Kashmiri Carpets: Renowned for their rich designs, particularly the traditional Persian-style carpets.  The unique hand-knotted kashmir carpets use a coded script called Taleem for design instructions. These carpets feature traditional oriental and floral motifs and are made from various materials like silk and wool.
• Paper Mâché: It is the art of creating objects from molded paper pulp, traditionally painted and lacquered.In Kashmir, it began with pen cases and evolved into a distinct art of surface decoration (naqashi).
• Embroidered Textiles: Fine embroidery techniques like Sozni and Aari work, used in garments and accessories.Sozni shawls originate from Kashmir, with “Sozni” meaning needle in Persian.
• Wood Carving: Intricate designs carved into walnut wood, creating beautiful furniture and home décor.
• Copperware: Traditional Kashmiri metal crafts, especially the copper samovars and tea sets. Part of the ancient heritage of Kashmir, with artisans skilled in metallurgy.
• Khatamband: It is a handcrafted art of making ceilings by fitting small pieces of walnut or deodar wood into geometric patterns without using nails.