WCC's Knowledge Exchange Program: A Boon for Kashmiri Artisans

Introduction and Synopsis of the News

- The World Crafts Council (WCC) is planning to organise a knowledge exchange programme for artisans of Kashmir. This initiative is designed to align them with cities that have historically influenced Kashmiri craft aesthetics.

- The programme will connect artisans of similar cultural backgrounds and expertise, facilitating cultural and technical enrichment for them.

- In June 2024, the WCC designated Srinagar as a World Craft City, further underlining the significance of Kashmiri crafts on the global scale.

About the World Crafts Council (WCC)

- The WCC is an international nonprofit organisation, established in 1964.

- Smt Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay, an eminent social reformer from India, was one of the founding members of this organisation.

- The primary goal of the WCC is to uphold the status of crafts as essential cultural and economic assets.

A Glimpse of Kashmiri Crafts

- Seven prominent crafts of Kashmir - Kani Shawl, Pashmina, Sozni, Paper-Mache, Walnut Wood Carving, Khatamband, and Hand Knotted Carpets, hold a Geographical Indication (GI) certification.

- These crafts form a vital part of Kashmir's rich cultural tapestry and have a significant bearing on its economic landscape.

Srinagar - The World Craft City

- Srinagar, as per the INTACH-Kashmir report of 2024, holds a glorious history of about 1500 years, thereby qualifying as one the ancient cities of South Asia.

- Srinagar is globally celebrated for the 'Cashmere' brand and the paisley motif.

- The city uniquely blends different cultural influences with crafts such as Zanjan and Filigree introduced by Iranian artisans five centuries ago.

- Srinagar initiated its carpet-making tradition in the late 14th century under the influence of Sufi Saint Sayyid Ali Hamdani.

- A testament to its rich craft heritage, Srinagar was recognized as a UNESCO Creative City for crafts and folk arts in 2021.

Role of Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH)

- Established in 1984 in New Delhi, INTACH endeavours to promote heritage awareness and conservation within India.

- Known as one of the world's largest heritage organisations, INTACH has played a crucial role in recognising and documenting the craft heritage of cities like Srinagar among others.

In conclusion, WCC's planned programme promises to be an enriching experience for Kashmiri artisans, providing them an opportunity for cultural exchange and technical enhancement. It signifies an essential step towards bringing the spotlight on the invaluable craft heritage of Kashmir.