As custodians of our heritage, let’s breathe new life into the timeless crafts of Namda, Carpet and Shawl

Kashmir has long been revered for its rich cultural tapestry, woven with threads of tradition and history. Among its most cherished treasures are the art forms of Namda making, carpet weaving and shawl weaving, each bearing testament to the centuries of craftsmanship and creativity.
Namda Making: The art of Namda making, originating from Persia, has been an integral part of Kashmiri culture for generations. Crafted from felted wool, Namdas are intricately designed rugs renowned for their durability and warmth. However, despite their cultural significance, this ancient craft has faced challenges in recent times, with dwindling artisans and a diminishing market.
Carpet Weaving: Kashmiri carpets are celebrated worldwide for their exquisite craftsmanship and intricate designs. Woven painstakingly by skilled artisans, these carpets embody the essence of Kashmiri heritage. Yet, in the face of modernization and changing market dynamics, the traditional art of carpet weaving is at risk of fading into obscurity.
Shawl Weaving: Shawl weaving holds a special place in Kashmiri culture, symbolizing elegance and refinement. The luxurious Pashmina shawls, handcrafted by master weavers, are coveted for their softness and timeless beauty. However, with the advent of machine-made imitations and economic challenges, the traditional art of shawl weaving is facing a critical juncture.
Preserving Our Heritage: As custodians of Kashmir’s cultural legacy, it is incumbent upon us to safeguard and revive these time-honoured crafts. The revival of Namda making, carpet weaving, and shawl weaving not only preserves our heritage but also provides livelihoods for local artisans, ensuring the continuity of their age-old traditions.
Empowering Artisans: Revitalizing Kashmir’s cultural heritage requires a concerted effort to empower artisans and revitalize traditional craft clusters. By providing training, access to markets, and financial support, we can empower artisans to continue practising their craft with pride and dignity.
Promoting Sustainability: Embracing sustainable practices in Namda making, Carpet weaving, and Shawl weaving is essential to ensure the long-term viability of these crafts. From sourcing eco-friendly materials to adopting energy-efficient techniques, promoting sustainability will not only preserve our cultural heritage but also safeguard the environment for future generations.
Celebrating Diversity: The revival of Namda making, Carpet weaving, and Shawl weaving is not just about preserving ancient crafts; it is about celebrating the diversity and richness of Kashmiri culture. Each thread woven into these exquisite creations tells a story of resilience, creativity, and heritage—a story that deserves to be cherished and passed down through generations.
A Call to Action: Let us come together as custodians of Kashmir’s cultural heritage, to breathe new life into the timeless crafts of Namda making, Carpet weaving, and Shawl weaving. Through our collective efforts, we can ensure that these cherished traditions continue to thrive, inspiring generations to come with their beauty and craftsmanship.
In the intricate patterns of Namdas, the vibrant colours of carpets, and the delicate weaves of shawls, lies the soul of Kashmir—a soul that beckons us to preserve, protect, and revive its cultural heritage for posterity.
The writer is an author, columnist and teacher. He can be reached at [email protected]

Manzoor Akash