Kashmir is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and a confluence of traditional art and craft forms that have evolved over the centuries. The region is known as the crown jewel of India and rightly so! Nestled in the Himalayas this region is famous for its cultural excellence. From sumptuous cuisine to outstanding literary works, this land prides itself on being a melting pot of arts and culture. While talking about the things that set this region apart from other states, the handicrafts of Jammu and Kashmir deserve a standalone mention. Let us delve into the world of Kashmir crafts in greater detail.
Different Kashmiri Crafts
We have put together a list of some of the most sought-after handmade Kashmiri art and craft for your reference:
Pashmina Shawl - The Woven Elegance
A Pashmina Shawl is a prized possession in a person’s wardrobe and it is an outstanding embodiment of Kashmiri craft. The wool for this shawl is derived from a special breed of goats known as Changthangi goats, which are native to higher altitude regions of northern India. After harvesting the wool, it is then spun into yarn by hand which is subsequently woven by skilled artisans. It is a highly time and labour-intensive process. Pashmina shawls are unparalleled symbols of luxury and they are super soft to touch.
Papier-Mâché – Artistic Delicacy
This particular Kashmiri craft is over 700 years old and it is extremely popular owing to its intricate craftsmanship. The Kashmiri Papier Mache involves the coating of an object with a special mixture made from paper pulp and glue which can be reinforced with other materials as well. After coating an object with this mixture, it is left to dry which ultimately hardens and the resultant product can be used for many purposes. This form of Kashmiri handicrafts is used for making jewellery boxes, vases etc.
Crewel embroidery - Threaded Elegance
This form of Kashmir embroidery is known for the use of a special needle known as Aari for making gorgeous and intricate designs on the fabric using wool threads. The Crewel embroidery motifs are a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary patterns with nature playing a great muse for the designs.
The form of embroidery is mainly done on cotton, linen, and rayon fabrics owing to their strength and durability and is one of the most sought-after Kashmir crafts.
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The Beautiful Art of Crewel Embroidery from Kashmir
Walnut Wood Carving – Nature's Artistry
Walnut wood carving is used for creating excellent Kashmiri handicrafts using the technique and skill of talented craftsmen. This form of Kashmiri art is done on hard walnut tree wood which has an even texture and fine grain. The material used for carving is called ‘Doon Kul’ and it is cut from a walnut tree. It is believed that it is cut once the walnut tree natures to an age of 300 years!
A number of furnishing and decorative items can be made from this folk art of Jammu And Kashmir. In fact, Kashmiri wood carving has been protected by the Trade-Related Aspects Of Intellectual Property Rights Agreement under The Geographical Indication (GI) Tag.
Image credit:- outlook IndiaKashmir Leather Work
Kashmiri leatherwork is a fine example of handmade Kashmiri art and craft. Skilled artisans using traditional tools and techniques to hand carve and hand paint high-quality leather. The designs are subsequently embellished with threadwork and other forms of embroidery to create exciting designs and patterns. Kashmir leather work handbags with mesmerising chain stitches are a popular accessory in the Indian fashion space.
Kashmir Carpets
Kashmiri Carpets are a great personification of the beauty of Kashmiri embroidery and craft. These carpets are typically hand knotted and made from fine-quality wool and silk. The intricate design on these carpets is done by skilled artisans who take inspiration from flowers, geometric patterns and nature. Only natural dyes are used for making a traditional Kashmiri carpet. The traditional technique of hand-knotting requires a number of man hours and hence these carpets are super exquisite.
Basohli Painting
The origin of this vibrant art and craft of Jammu and Kashmir dates back to the 17th century. These miniature paintings are known for being colourful, bright and for having attractive and distinctive facial features. Basohli paintings are the first known forms of Pahari paintings and they are the inspiration for many other forms of paintings emerging from the regions of Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir.
Conclusion
Kashmir is not just famous for its scenic beauty and stellar natural landscapes but also a thriving and exciting ecosystem of Kashmiri art and craft. From gorgeous Kashmiri wood carving to Basohli paintings, everything is a testimony to the rich cultural heritage of the regions. In fact, 9 handicraft products and techniques from the region have qualified for GI (Geographical Indication) tagging. (2)
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different arts of Kashmir?
There are many different arts of Kashmir:
- Papier Mache
- Crewel Embroidery
- Pashmina Shawls
- Basohli Paintings
- Kashmiri Leather Work
- Namda And Gabba Craft
- Wood Carving
- Kashmiri Willow Bags
Why is Kashmir famous for its handicrafts?
Kashmir is famous for its handicrafts because of the fine quality of raw materials that are found in the region. In addition to that, skilled artisans who are proficient in various techniques personify the rich cultural heritage of the state.
What is Crewel embroidery?
Crewel embroidery refers to a special type of Kashmir embroidery where wool threads are woven on cotton or linen fabrics. This type of embroidery is characterised by a fine finish that has a raised and a textured effect. The handicrafts of Jammu and Kashmir that are made using this technique are very famous.
What are the problems faced by the handicraft industry in Jammu & Kashmir?
In light of the thriving political unrest in the region, the artisans of Jammu and Kashmir find it hard to upskill themselves or easily get access to the market to sell their produce. Furthermore, the lack of financial support also augments the problems faced by the handicraft industry in the region.
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