Threads of Heritage: Arath artisans seek lifeline for Sozni craft
Budgam, Feb 2: Artisans in Arath village of Budgam, renowned for its traditional Chathal—a community workspace where Sozni embroidery is practiced—have urged the government to declare the area a Handicraft Tourism Village to safeguard the centuries-old craft and support local artisans.
Jahangir Ahmad, a Sozni artisan from Arath, said the inhabitants of this area have been associated with the intricate embroidery since childhood, learning the skill from their ancestors. “Due to rising unemployment, many of us have returned to our ancestral Sozni work. Job opportunities in the general category are very limited, which discourages youth from pursuing higher education,” he said.
He added that rising market expenses and low returns have made survival increasingly difficult. “We gather at the Chathal with family members and neighbours and work under a supervisor. This collective environment helps reduce stress as we share our problems and support one another,” Jahangir said.
Despite the labour-intensive nature of the craft, earnings remain minimal. “Workers outside earn up to ₹3,000 a day, while we earn barely ₹300. That is why the younger generation does not prefer this craft and looks for better-paying alternatives,” he said.
Jahangir warned that unemployment has left many educated youth distressed, pushing some towards negative paths. “We chose to return to our ancestral craft to sustain ourselves. The government must introduce targeted handicraft schemes, particularly for youth engaged in this work,” he said.
He added that a majority of households in Arath depend on Sozni embroidery for their livelihood. “I am a student and fund my education through this craft. My entire family depends on it,” he said, appealing to the government to provide direct market access so artisans can sell shawls at fair prices. “With proper facilities, employment in this sector will grow.”
Another artisan, Mohammad Altaf Khan, who has been practicing Sozni embroidery for over 32 years, said the lack of infrastructure and institutional support discourages the younger generation. “Working together in the Chathal reminds us of ancient times. We want to revive this culture, but without support, youth hesitate to join,” he said.
Altaf said the craft, once a symbol of Kashmir’s cultural heritage, is steadily declining as government schemes fail to reach genuine artisans. He also raised concerns over the influx of machine-made shawls being sold as hand-embroidered products. “These fake products are damaging the market. We urge the government to ban machine-made shawls so customers are not misled,” he said.
Artisans collectively urged the government to provide decentralised and accessible training programmes, revive the craft through the Department of Handicrafts, and reconnect artisans with national and international markets. “The government must empower local artisans, especially youth and women, and restore the lost glory of Kashmir’s handicraft industry,” they said.
By: Aala Bukhari
