Dying traditional wicker craft gets new lease of life

Srinagar, Sep 27: The dying wicket craft or keani keam has got a new lease of life with massive demand for wicker items in marriage ceremonies and other functions.

45-year-old Ghulam Muhammad, a shopkeeper at Hazratbal market is elated by boom in wicker craft business. He has been carrying on his family business despite facing challenges. “This craft has passed from our generations,” he said. “We have always made things that are useful but we also weave baskets and other ornaments which are now being used during marriage ceremonies.”

There is a complex process behind making of wicker item. This centuries-old art of wicker craft is practiced by skilfully bending the twigs and weaving them into number of products—ranging from utility items to artistic products which depicts ethos of Kashmir.

The arduous process starts from fetching willow twigs from marshy areas or banks of water bodies. The willow has to be soaked and peeled then left to dry in the sun, to make it easy to weave. These twigs of wood are utilised to make baskets, royal chairs, stylish trays and fine decorative ferrules which bear testimony to the fine artistry etched in the criss-cross work of Kashmir.

At Shalbug area in Ganderbal, artists masterfully weave these hand-made gems. “The use of kaeni items for decorative purposes is the most attractive aspect. The wedding baskets, the work of art on the wall, flower vases and lampshades that are hand-crafted offer an added flavour to any room. We create things not only to use, but to use in order to warm up and to decorate homes and any kind of festivities,” Ghulam Muhammad said pointing towards his variety of wicker item in his modest shop. “These pieces depict the artistry and culturally diverse heritage of the Kashmir region,” he said with a smile.

He explains despite odds, Kashmiri Kaen continues to have a current relevance. “Despite introduction of modern items made of plastic and other artificial materials, the craft of wicker making is picking up and making it place,” he said. “These items are mostly in demand for marriage ceremonies and related functions.”

“It has however taken a toll on the cost of the craft over the years. Many artisans shifted from using high quality willow and instead opt for cheaper plastic products. However, there is a market for hand-crafted willow products, for those who understand the art and history which is embodied in the product,” he added.

Most of the artisans said that there must be an effort to save and promote the traditional Kashmiri craft. “Making wicker items is not just a craft but it is a way of living. We create each product using the story, culture and love we have for Kashmir. Our products are an expression of the soul of this place and people hold dear to their hearts.”