Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Nov 2: The traditional art of handmade designing and tracing in Jammu and Kashmir is facing the threat of extinction, with urgent steps needed for its revival. Kawdara, once renowned for its handicrafts, now has only a handful of artisans still practicing this craft.
“Nearly every household in Kawdara used to be involved in handicrafts, primarily designing and tracing, but this legacy is dwindling,” Mushtaq Ahmad Bamboo, a 65-year-old resident of Bairi Pora Nawa Kadal and a noted tracer and designer, said.
Having practiced his craft for 40 years, he lamented that the art is dying due to inadequate compensation for artisans.
Bamboo, who earned a diploma in tracing and designing in 1984, has modernised the craft by introducing diverse patterns beyond the traditional floral designs. Despite no one in his family knowing this art, he has trained dozens of individuals who have since become skilled artisans themselves.
“Exporters in Kashmir often lack their own designers and buy products at low prices only to sell them at high rates. However, artisans in other regions enjoy the benefits of having dedicated designers who receive fair returns for their work,” he said.
Mushtaq added, “I have begun creating ‘Jaye Nimaz’ with various designs and have also developed Kelam designs, strip geometry, KT5 and more.”
Bamboo said that people from Mumbai and Delhi have come to learn the art of designing and tracing from him. His ey expertise extends to paper machie, chain stitch, embroidery and crewel work.
Despite government claims of supporting handicraft revival, Bamboo said the reality is different. He called for the establishment of a Kashmiri trade in modern art to save this dying craft. “Merely offering loans is insufficient; bold initiatives are needed to attract younger generations to the field and to ensure the art continues as it has for centuries,” he said.
In Kawdara, where handicrafts were once a way of life, only a few artisans remain. Bamboo said that the lack of financial incentive has discouraged young people from learning these skills.
“Immediate government intervention is crucial to preserve this cultural heritage,” he stressed.
