Meet Mohammed Yousaf Muran, Kashmir’s Deaf-Mute Wood Carving Maestro Mohammed Yousaf Muran, a 67-year-old artist from the Eidgah area of Srinagar, has spent decades defying limitations imposed by a world that often overlooks the differently-abled. Deaf and mute since birth, Muran has transformed his physical challenges into a wellspring of creative expression, carving exquisite sculptures...
In a proud moment for Kashmir, Mir Arshad Hussain, a talented papier mache artist from Srinagar, has claimed first prize at the 9th International Fajr Festival of Handicrafts (Sarv-e-Simin) held in Tehran, Iran. The festival, which showcases the finest craftsmanship from around the world, saw thousands of artisans competing for the top honour. However, it...
In a world where creativity meets sustainability, 22-year-old Mudasir Rashid from Khonmoh, Srinagar, is making waves with his unique art crafted from discarded wood. A mechanical engineer by education, Mudasir never received formal training in woodworking, yet his passion for transforming scraps into stunning handmade pieces has captured hearts across India. What started as an...
We have all used Apsara and Nataraj pencils at some point in our lives. These two brands have been a staple in Indian stationery, filling pencil boxes across generations. But did you know that both brands come from the same company, Hindustan Pencils? The story of this company is one of vision, strategy, and an...
In the heart of Srinagar, amidst the narrow lanes of Channapora, resides a master craftsman whose life has been dedicated to preserving one of Kashmir’s most intricate and cherished art forms—chain stitch embroidery. Mehrajudin Beigh, a 68-year-old artisan, has spent nearly five decades perfecting this craft, producing exquisite handmade pieces that have traveled far beyond...
In the heart of Srinagar, where traditional crafts like papier-mâché and Pashmina weaving thrive, a young artist is carving out a unique space in the world of handmade art. Sabreena Aaliya, a 28-year-old from Soura, has transformed her childhood love for art into a full-fledged career in quilling—an intricate paper craft that is still relatively...
Mushtaq Ahmad Jan (47) and Shabir Ahmad Makhdoomi (61) from Khawjapora, Srinagar, are among the last few master artisans practicing the intricate and time-honored craft of Rafugari, the art of repairing and restoring pashmina shawls. This traditional skill is essential for the preservation of heirloom shawls, which are not just expensive but also carry deep...
Ali Mohammad Dar, a master Kangri-maker from Charar-e-Sharief in Budgam District, has dedicated over 50 years to crafting these traditional Kashmiri fire pots. In recognition of his craftsmanship, he was awarded the Best Kangri-Maker Award in 2022. His expertise lies in creating Charar Kangris, renowned for their unique design and cultural significance. The Craft of...
Mushtaq Ahmad Bamboo, 65, of Bairi Pora Nawa Kadal, Srinagar is a noted tracer (Chappan Gour) and designer (Naqash). He has been practicing this art since last 40 years. He completed his diploma in tracing and designing in 1984 and modernized the craft by introducing patterns other than the popular floral patterns. Mushtaq has had...
