Farooq Ahmad Mir, a famous Kani-shawl weaver from Kashmir, received the Padma Shri award this Republic Day for his dedication to preserving the art of shawl weaving. His son Fayaz Ahmad Mir explained that his father cannot use his fingers or thumbs for biometric screenings because of his extensive weaving experience. Farooq Ahmad Mir began learning Kani weaving and Pashmina weaving at ten years old after he climbed onto the wooden platform known as Khraab that enabled him to approach the loom.
Farooq Ahmad Mir: Recognition and Achievements
At 72 years old, Farooq Ahmad Mir has also received the Sant Kabir Award in 2014 and the J&K State Award for his efforts in conserving the fine art of shawl making. The Padma Shri accolade made Farooq happy because his persistent work in craftsmanship at last received formal acknowledgment. Through several generations Farooq’s family has maintained a long tradition in this craft which continues its passage from one generation to the next.
Continuing the Tradition
Despite their college degrees Fayaz Ahmad Mir together with his brothers Maajid and Altaf Hussain have decided to take up their late father’s occupation. The weavers believe weaving produces higher financial benefits when compared to numerous government positions. Fayaz believed maintaining their ancestral craft legacy would benefit all successive generations to come. During their interaction Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged their commitment to Kani weaving as he showed appreciation for their craftsmanship.
At Delhi airport Maajid conducts educational workshops for air passengers while he also delivers teaching programs around different nations and Altaf leads his workshops abroad in Argentina. The Handicrafts and Handloom Department of Kashmir approached Farooq and other craftsmen to celebrate their success which promoted Kani weaving and Sozni embroidery for global market potential. Farooq received a personal visit from department representatives who both congratulated him along with his family members and demonstrated support for the craft’s future continuation.
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