Srinagar (J&K): There is still time for Christmas, but Srinagar's Papier Machie artisans are busy making decorative items for the festival. The reason is that these items take a long time to get ready and have to be exported outside the country.
Speaking to ETV Bharat, Syed Javed, a resident of the Hawal area of Srinagar city, said, "Our goods are exported to European countries, the United States and the Middle East. This year too demand is high. We make balls, bells, moons, stars and Santa. We also make eggs for Easter."
"It takes a long time to make these items. First, the paper is soaked in water, then it has to be mashed. Then dried and lastly, coated with different colours and designs," he added.
According to Javed, all items are exported online and many foreign customers place their orders every year.
Javed, 45, has been involved in this business since childhood and has seen many ups and downs in the handicraft sector. He also worked for a private company but quit his job because he was interested in handicrafts.
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"We have a good income during festivals and weddings. However, this is not enough for a two-course meal. The administration should organise exhibitions not only at the national stage but also on the international stage," he said.
Javed's factory still has a variety of Papier Machie items, but not many customers.
"There is a lot of goods. But you see, when you don't get the right price for your labour, the interest decreases. There are both artisans and buyers who are responsible for the current economic situation of this sector. The buyer thinks that these artisans don't have any work and hence don't pay us a fair price. Even the artisans don't do hard work anymore."
