Firdous Hassan
Srinagar, Sep 13: As G20 summit in New Delhi was nearing its culmination, it was the Kashmir’s Pashmina shawls, which brought cultural flavour to the historic meet.
Pashmina shawls of the valley’s renowned artisan Padmashri Haji Gulam Rasool Khan were the limelight of the meet. His shawls were gifted to as well as purchased by delegates, who had attended the meet at New Delhi’s Pragati Maidan.
“How can it be possible when we talk about art and not talk about the Pashmina shawls of Kashmir. The delegates had heard much about Kashmir’s Pashmina shawls. They visited our store in New Delhi and purchased Pashmina shawls,” Khan said.
Khan’s store showcased a stunning array of Pashmina garments, each meticulously handcrafted using the finest cashmere wool sourced from the Changthangi goats of Ladakh. His creations featured intricate patterns, delicate embroidery, and a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary designs.
Khan said the delegates liked the unique craft of Pashmina shawls of Kashmir.
“G20 was the biggest event and delegates from different countries attended the summit. We displayed our shawls, which the delegates liked and preferred to purchase to take them home,” he said.
Those who visited Khans store included diplomats from Brazil, Italy, Japan, France, and others who admired his masterpieces.
They were impressed not only by the quality of the Pashmina but also by the artist’s dedication to preserving this ancient craft.
Padmashri Ghulam Rasool Khan, hailing from Srinagar is celebrated worldwide for his mastery in crafting the finest Pashmina shawls, scarves, and wraps.
In 2021, President of India presented Khan Padmashree for his efforts towards conserving the oldest technique of making Kashmiri Pashmina shawls.
Earlier this year in May, Kashmir’s handicrafts attracted the attention of G20 in Srinagar.
The delegates during the summit praised the Kashmir artisans for their skills and products.
Many among them toured the markets of Srinagar and purchased handicrafts as souvenirs.
