Shawls & Shawlbafs of Kashmir by Dr Abdul Ahad

About the BOOK:

The book presents a fascinating account that delves into the rich tapestry of the Kashmir Shawl, shining a spotlight on the remarkable shawlbafs whose relentless dedication and craftsmanship have played a pivotal role in its worldwide renown. From adorning VV1Ps at the FIFA World Cup 2022 opening ceremony In Doha’s Al Bayt stadium to igniting Kashmir’s economy and culturalhHeritage, and inspiring a galaxy of eminent artists to celebrate exquisite shawls to generate Ehsaas-Pashmina (pashmina feeling) and redefine fashion today and tomorrow. This book places the shawl in its rightful perspective. Tracing its origins to the circular pit dwellings of Burzahom, Srinagar, this fabric emerged from the basic human need for warmth, evolving into an exquisite art passed down through generations.

The book explores how labour tensions and protests unveiled the struggle for a sovereign Kashmir, tragically overshadowed by political opportunism, plunging the valley into conflict. The book is a detailed discourse of Kashmir’s artisans the weavers, embroiderers, designers, spinners, and craftsmen-whose contributions shape the region’s growth dynamics and fuel its politics of dissent. Their annual income of rupees 5000 crores drives unfunded household undertakings, spanning various trades and crafts across Jammu & Kashmir.

The book navigates the complexities of Kashmir’s disquieted legacy and serves as a defiant beacon, amplifying public uneasiness. It exposes the impact of inconsistent leadership, which entraps Kashmir in an endless cycle of pain and unimaginable pressure.

The book is an extraordinary journey through the legend of Kashmir Shawl-a tale of resilience,

identity, and untold aspirations.

About the AUTHOR

Born, brought up, and educated in Kashmir, Dr.Abdul Ahad came to prominence after he began writing for influential dailies and journals when he was hardly seventeen. He is celebrated author known globally for his investigative and methodical research, and an inimitable, lucid writing style in razor-sharp prose.  His works on Kashmir, particularly  Kashmir Rediscovered, and Kashmir: Triumphs & Tragedies, have been received both by scholars and general readers with considerable acclaim. His postings as the Ex-Chief of the Archives, Archaeology, Museums, Research, and Public Libraries and finally, Commissioner Secretary, Education/Culture,J&X Government, made easier his access to vital source material on the subject.