Ghulam Nabi Dar, the venerable 72-year-old master craftsman hailing from Srinagar, has recently been honored with the esteemed Padma Shri award, standing tall among the 134 distinguished personalities recognized by the President of India. His journey, marked by dedication to the intricate art of walnut wood carving, is nothing short of inspiring.
A Legacy Carved in Wood
Dar’s artistic journey began over six decades ago when, in the early 1960s, his maternal uncle introduced him to the world of wood carving under the guidance of Abdul Razaq Wangnoo. This initiation, rooted in necessity to provide for his large family, led Dar to operate manual hole-driving machines for meager earnings.
From Struggle to Recognition
The relentless pursuit of excellence led Dar to the workshop of Abdul Aziz Bhat, where he honed his skills and eventually delved into the realm of real walnut carving. The toil paid off when his wages were raised, enabling him to learn the craft intricacies. Subsequently, Dar’s journey saw a pivotal moment when he approached the immobilized master, Nooruddin Tikoo, at Narwara, Srinagar.
Mastering the Art: A Passionate Odyssey
Under the guidance of Tikoo, paralyzed on the right side but with an unparalleled artistic vision, Dar’s skills flourished. With over 60 years of practice, he continued to evolve, creating diverse designs for various wooden pieces. His relentless passion and imagination became evident when he won the National Award in 1995 for a wooden box adorned with engraved flowers and expressive human faces.
Kashmir’s Artistic Hub
Srinagar’s Safakadal-Eidgah belt has long been a cradle of handicrafts, featuring walnut wood carving, lattice work, khatamband ceilings, and more. This region, nestled amidst 5,500 to 7,500 ft above sea level, cultivates the renowned Kashmir walnut or Juglans regia, contributing to the area’s rich artistic heritage.
Protected Heritage: Kashmir Walnut Carving
The artistry of walnut carving in Kashmir is now safeguarded under the geographical indication (GI) of the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). Recognized as “Kashmir Walnut Wood Carving,” this tradition holds a special place in the cultural tapestry of India.
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