Rehan Qayoom Mir

Srinagar, Jul 21: As a proud moment for Kashmir’s artisan community, Bashir Ahmad Ganie, a skilled weaver from Srinagar, has been selected for the National Handloom Award 2024 for his exceptional craftsmanship in Kani shawl weaving.
According to the reports, his name figures among 19 national awardees from across the country in the official list released by the Ministry of Textiles. The award will be presented by the President of India on August 7, 2025, during the 11th National Handloom Day celebrations at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
The National Handloom Awards are part of the Handloom Marketing Assistance (HMA) component under the National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP). They aim to recognise and encourage exemplary talent in the sector and promote traditional weaving practices across India.
Bashir Ahmad Ganie, known for his mastery in Kani shawl weaving, has upheld the centuries-old Kashmiri handloom tradition through intricate and labour-intensive designs that reflect both heritage and innovation.
Meanwhile, the event will also be attended by Union Minister of Textiles, Giriraj Singh, along with MPs, designers, industry leaders, officials, and over 500 weavers from across the country.
It is worth mentioning, Kani shawl, originating from the Kanihama area of Kashmir, is woven using small wooden sticks called kanis instead of the traditional shuttle. Each design is based on a coded pattern called Talim, which guides the artisan in creating complex and colourful motifs.
The Kani weaving is considered one of the most time-consuming forms of handloom craftsmanship, often taking months to complete a single shawl. It is a symbol of Kashmir’s rich cultural legacy and has received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for its authenticity.