Weaving Woes: Kashmiri artisans face crisis as counterfeit carpets flood markets
Srinagar, Feb 2: The enchanting realm of Kashmir’s handicrafts, particularly its exquisite carpet weaving, is confronting a profound crisis. Once celebrated for their intricate designs and vibrant colours, Kashmiri carpets face declining demand, resulting in plummeting wages for artisans. The primary culprits behind this trend are unscrupulous elements flooding the market with counterfeit carpets that masquerade as authentic creations from the region.
Muhammad Ashraf, a devoted carpet weaver who balances his craft with agricultural work and household responsibilities, conveyed the gravity of his situation: “Carpet weaving is my full-time job, but I also work in the fields to make ends meet. The meagre wages I receive have dropped so low that it’s becoming nearly impossible to sustain my family.”
Adding to the plight of these artisans, Javid Ahmad Bhat an experienced weaver, recalled his journey into the craft. “I was a little boy when my maternal uncle taught me the art of carpet weaving. Now, I teach other fellows in the village, but the taleem (coded guidelines for weaving) is becoming a dying art. It’s disheartening to see such a beautiful tradition fading away.”
For centuries, handmade Kashmiri carpets have been renowned globally for their unique patterns and durability. They once commanded premium prices in international markets, allowing skilled weavers to make a comfortable living. However, the rise of machine-made rugs, often sold deceptively as Kashmiri products, has severely impacted the demand for authentic handmade carpets. Bhat highlighted that artisans rarely have direct contact with buyers: “We’re often left in the dark about how much our carpets could fetch on the market. Intermediaries take a substantial portion of the profits, leaving us with a pittance for our hard work.”
Sheikh Ashiq, a prominent carpet exporter batted for the need for urgent action to combat the proliferation of counterfeit carpets. “It has become a menace in our industry that machine-made carpets are being sold as handmade in handicrafts showrooms,” Ashiq stated passionately.
“One carpet typically takes a family six to eight months to complete, while the same size machine-produced carpet can be made in mere minutes. Our Kashmiri carpets are not only products but represent a legacy of tradition and mastery of craftsmanship.”
Recognising the growing crisis, the Handicrafts and Handloom Department has begun reinforcing regulations through the Tourist Trade and Quality Control Acts to crack down on sellers of fake carpets. “Inspections of showrooms have intensified across Srinagar and popular health resorts like Gulmarg and Pahalgam to address this issue,” a government statement underscoring a commitment to preserving the integrity of Kashmiri carpets.
To further safeguard the authenticity of Kashmiri handicrafts, the Handicrafts and Handloom Department initiated GI (Geographical Indication) tagging two years ago. This system allows buyers to scan products and verify their authenticity. “We encourage stakeholders to approach the department for GI tagging and certification of their products,” the spokesperson added, emphasising the importance of promoting only genuine handmade items.
As the craftspeople of Kashmir strive to protect their heritage and craft, they face numerous challenges, including a new generation increasingly disinterested in continuing this traditional art form.