Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Jul 12: The renowned ‘Roaffe Kaem,’ a traditional handmade silver craft in Kashmir, is facing a slow demise as most master silversmiths have passed away, leaving only a few elderly craftsmen. These remaining masters fear that their unique skills will vanish with their passing.
Farooq Ahmad Kashoo, a 63-year-old master silversmith from Malarata Chowk Bohri Kadal, said that he has dedicated decades to this craft. However, the lack of interest from the younger generation and the absence of government support have led to its decline.
Farooq said his family has been involved in this craft for two to three generations, but the economic prospects for new artisans are bleak. This has forced parents to steer their children towards more lucrative careers, he said.
“The influx of cheaper Chinese and German silver has further diminished the demand for pure Kashmiri silver, which remains costly,” Kashoo said.
Farooq, who also polishes silver items, said that while there is a market for low-cost, duplicate silver, the rising prices of pure silver have driven away potential customers.
Ghulam Nabi Zargar, a 65-year-old silversmith from Khwaja Bazar, has been practising ‘Roaffe Kaem’ for over 50 years. He lamented that the number of master silversmiths is dwindling, with only two or three left.
The high cost of silver has significantly reduced the demand for their intricate work, making it challenging for current artisans to sustain their livelihoods, he said.
Zargar, who inherited the craft from his father, Abdul Aziz, has created various silver items such as samawars, kenzi sets, kangris, trays, plates, soap cases, sandals, traem sarposh, isbandh soz, fruit bowls, and Quran boxes.
“However, the demand for such items has decreased, especially among the Kashmiri Pandit community, who traditionally used them during functions,” he said.
Both Farooq and Zargar said they have not received any government assistance and have not encouraged their children to learn the craft due to its limited economic viability. They warned that with their passing, the traditional silversmithing skills will likely be lost forever.
Kashmiri silverware, known for its intricate ‘naqash’ designs, dates back to the Mughal era and is one of the region’s ancient arts. Yet, without support and interest from the younger generation, this historic craft faces the threat of extinction.
