“Celebration of Kashmir’s Heart”: Foreign Tourists Hail ‘Know Your Artisan’ Carnival as 3-Day Showcase Ends in Sgr
Visitors call it ‘authentic, beautiful and alive’; artisans say event restored dignity and direct connection with people
Aazan Manzoor
Srinagar, Nov 22: The three-day “Know Your Artisan” carnival, held under the Soulful Kashmir initiative, concluded on a vibrant note at Sher-e-Kashmir Park on Saturday, drawing an overwhelming response from tourists and locals who described it as a live window into Kashmir’s authentic craft heritage.
Organised by the Department of Handicrafts & Handloom, Kashmir, the fair recorded heavy turnout on its final day as visitors thronged stalls showcasing papier-mache, walnut wood carving, sozni embroidery, willow wicker and pashmina weaving each brought to life through live demonstrations.
“This wasn’t an ordinary exhibition, it felt like hearts meeting through art,” said Abdul Rashid, a papier-mache artisan, while speaking to JKNS. “People finally saw the hands behind the craft. That respect gives us dignity.”
Another artisan specialising in sozni embroidery said the initiative boosted morale within the craft community. “When people hear how much effort goes into one piece, they value it differently. That appreciation keeps our craft breathing,” he said.
Tourists, too were visibly moved by the experience. Calling the carnival a “living gallery of Kashmir’s soul,” visitors said the event allowed them to engage directly with creators instead of just seeing products on display.
Everything here feels real, warm and handmade. The artisans speak of their craft with such pride it’s beautiful,” said one visitor.
On the second day, a foreign tourist described the exhibition as a “beautiful, excellent and amazing” tribute to Kashmir’s originality. Speaking to media persons, she said such gatherings protect authentic handmade work from being overshadowed by imported imitations.
“This place shows the real production and originality of Kashmir. Meeting these artisans makes you appreciate every piece. Imported items can never replace this,” she said while exploring stalls featuring intricate paper-mache and carved walnut woodwork.
The “Know Your Artisan” showcase has not only strengthened the bond between craftsmen and their customers but also reinforced Kashmir’s standing as a cradle of artistic brilliance that continues to attract travellers from around the world. (JKNS)
