Kashmir’s prized handwoven carpets survived centuries of war, but could disappear this generation: Here’s why
SRINAGAR, Aug 28 — It has survived wars and upheavals, but the famed handwoven Kashmir carpet industry is now...
Srinagar, August 28 — The illustrious Kashmir carpet industry has endured wars and hardships, yet now faces a steady decline as younger generations forsake the intricate craft. Artisans weave carpets from silk or sheep wool, adorning global opulence with their labor. Knots per square inch, between 300 and thousands, are laboriously hand-spun and dyed in natural hues.
Until the 1980s, Kashmir carpets were the nation's chief export, but volumes have dwindled since, especially with recent conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. Weaver Bashir Ahmad, 78, lamented the loss of livelihood for younger weavers. Master weavers now earn a mere 500 rupees ($5; RM20) per day, less than unskilled laborers.
The trade, once a hero of the Kashmiri economy, now struggles to attract new talent. Artisans chant talim, a coded design guide, as they labor over a piece that may take a year to complete. The government offers free modern looms and geographical indication tags to preserve authenticity, but the future of this centuries-old craft may lie in the hands of an older generation.
Written by urgent.news from Malay Mail's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
