Srinagar, one of the world’s most creative cities, is home to countless artisans who work tirelessly to keep traditional arts and crafts alive. Among these talented individuals is Ghulam Nabi Zargar, a master of naqashi (wood carving) who has dedicated over five decades to his craft. Let’s explore his journey and the recent exhibition that showcased his exceptional work.
The Journey of a Lifelong Artisan
Ghulam Nabi Zargar’s story begins in childhood when he first developed an interest in the art of naqashi. After briefly attending school, he left his studies to pursue his passion. With his father’s encouragement and connections in the craft world, young Ghulam was introduced to Mahboob Sahab, a skilled artisan who would become his mentor.
Under Mahboob Sahab’s guidance, Ghulam honed his skills and began creating intricate designs on walnut wood. His talent soon caught the attention of many, and he started receiving recognition for his exceptional work.
The Art of Naqashi: A Labour of Love
Naqashi is not just about carving wood; it’s a process that requires immense creativity, patience, and skill. Ghulam Nabi explains that creating a design is a thoughtful process. He first conceptualizes the idea and then sketches it on paper. Only when he’s satisfied with the design does he begin carving it onto the wood.
The artisan emphasises that perfection often requires multiple attempts. “Sometimes, I have to erase and restart up to ten times before I’m happy with the result,” he says. This dedication to his craft is what sets Ghulam Nabi’s work apart and makes it truly exceptional.
Showcasing Kashmiri Craftsmanship: The Recent Exhibition
Recently, the Handicraft Department organised an exhibition under the “Know Your Artisan” initiative to showcase Ghulam Nabi Zargar’s outstanding work. The event was inaugurated by Ghulam himself, who cut the ribbon to open the exhibition.
The exhibition featured various products made from high-quality Kashmiri walnut wood, which is in high demand in international markets. Visitors were seen capturing these beautiful creations on their cameras, appreciating the intricate designs and the stories they tell.
One of the highlights of the exhibition was a unique table that depicted the story of Dal Lake. Ghulam Nabi explained that this piece took considerable time and effort to create, as it presents the famous lake in a truly remarkable way.
Preserving Tradition in a Modern World
Mahmood Shah, the Director of Handicrafts, attended the program and emphasised the importance of promoting such skilled artisans. He believes that showcasing their work to the world is crucial for preserving and promoting Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage.
Ghulam Nabi Zargar shares this sentiment and hopes that the younger generation will take an interest in learning these traditional crafts. He believes that in today’s world, there are ample opportunities for artisans to earn a good living while keeping age-old traditions alive.
“This is not like the old times,” Ghulam says. “Today, with the help of print and digital media, our work can reach the skies. If young people learn this craft today, they can earn well.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Kashmiri Crafts
The recent exhibition has brought renewed attention to the art of Naqashi and other traditional Kashmiri crafts. Artisans like Ghulam Nabi Zargar are hopeful that their work will gain more recognition on an international level.
The Handicraft Department and local artisans are working together to ensure that these skills are passed on to the next generation. They believe that with proper promotion and support, Kashmiri handicrafts can continue to thrive in the global market.
As we admire the intricate designs and the stories carved into each piece of walnut wood, we’re reminded of the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir. The work of artisans like Ghulam Nabi Zargar not only preserves tradition but also keeps the spirit of creativity alive in the valley.
Also Read: The Magic of Storytelling: Shazi Zaman
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