Young Kashmiris introduce new designs to revive valley's carpet industry

Carpet weaving has been considered an important industry in the ancient handicrafts of Kashmir and once it was the backbone of Kashmir's economy.

Srinagar: To take the carpet industry out of the current crisis in Kashmir and give it a new lease of life, a few well-educated young people from the handicraft sector have come forward to innovate and introduce calligraphy and other designs to revive carpet weaving. The move is being seen as a positive initiative to introduce new designs for the revival of the carpet industry.

Carpet weaving has been considered an important industry in the ancient handicrafts of Kashmir and once it was the backbone of Kashmir's economy. Not only thousands of artisans but also others associated with this industry were earning a good living, but over the decades the changing trend of the international market and the apathy of department concerned has led to the decline of Kashmir's carpet industry.

Shahnawaz Ahmed Sufi has introduced calligraphy and other attractive designs in carpets apart from traditional designs, so that the carpet industry can not only be revived but also its brand can be re-established in the international market. These types of carpets, made with calligraphy and other different designs, are very popular for adorning the living room.

Some such designs of wall carpets are also attracting domestic and foreign buyers while the demand is increasing day by day. Emad Ahmed is also committed to introducing Kashmiri carpets in a new look to the international market. Emad studied luxury brand management in Italy. Sensing the trend in the international market, Emad says the introduction of new designs could increase the demand for Kashmiri carpets abroad.

Exporting Kashmiri carpets to European and Gulf countries not only increases the country's income but also provides employment to its affiliates. Sheikh Ashiq, President, Chamber of Commerce and Industries, described such an initiative as positive and encouraging. He said that the department concerned would also have to come forward to help such youngsters.

"Such innovation augurs well for the revival of carpet weaving, but there is also the responsibility of govt to initiate measures to save this ancient industry," said Ashiq.