World Craft Forum, Srinagar: Great opportunity to revitalize Kashmir’s artistic heritage 

The upcoming World Craft Forum in Srinagar from November 25-27, organized by the World Crafts Council (WCC), could be a  transformative moment for the arts and crafts sector in Kashmir. This landmark event, coinciding with the WCC’s 60th anniversary, is due to gather artisans, experts and policymakers from around the country and the globe, presenting a significant opportunity for Kashmir’s widely recognized heritage to shine on the international stage. By spotlighting the unique craftsmanship that has long defined Kashmir, this forum could not only serve to recognise amazing local artisans but also bring much-needed attention to the revival and sustainability of Kashmir’s traditional arts.

Kashmir has long been renowned for its extraordinary handicrafts, including pashmina shawls, intricate woodwork, papier-mâché, carpets, and hand-woven textiles. However, this sector has faced substantial challenges over the years, including economic hardship, reduced demand, competition from machine-made goods, and limited global exposure. Today, artisans struggle to sustain their craft, often due to a lack of adequate financial returns, access to global markets, resources for skill enhancement and high input costs. The World Craft Forum provides a crucial platform to address these challenges, offering hope for revitalization through international cooperation and policy development aimed at preserving and promoting crafts.

One of the foremost benefits of this forum is the potential to amplify Kashmir’s craft identity both on national and global levels. The presence of around 50 international artists and experts at the event creates a rare opportunity for knowledge exchange, exposure to diverse craft techniques, and the exchange of innovative ideas for modernization and market outreach. Cross-cultural collaboration can lead to fresh perspectives, equipping Kashmiri artisans with strategies to adapt their practices,  plan and manage their  finances, while preserving their traditions. Additionally, networking with global stakeholders may open new markets, increasing the reach and demand for Kashmiri crafts worldwide. That is where the rich experience and strategic vision of Handicrafts and Handloom Department and institutions like the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) could come in very handy.

Looking at the Forum’s strategic ambition, it also highlights the vital link between crafts and sustainable development. As people worldwide embrace sustainable, ethically-made goods, Kashmir’s traditional handicrafts stand out as eco-friendly alternatives that have long practiced principles of low-waste production, natural materials, and high-quality handmade work. By promoting these crafts, Kashmir can contribute to the growing global movement toward sustainable consumption while creating economic opportunities for artisans and preserving the environment.

Moreover, the World Craft Forum arrives at a pivotal time when Srinagar has been declared a World Craft City, aligning it with 65 other globally recognized cities. This designation by the WCC reinforces Srinagar’s position as a cultural and artistic hub, potentially boosting tourism, which is essential for J&K’s  economy. Visitors to the forum could not only witness Kashmir’s artistic heritage but also experience its culture and landscapes, further promoting the valley as a premier destination for cultural tourism.

However, for this momentum to translate into long-term success, efforts must extend beyond the forum. J&K government’s emphasis on raising awareness among local artisans and effectively leveraging media to promote the event is essential. But further support is necessary. The World Craft Forum in Srinagar offers a hope for Kashmir’s artisans, presenting a chance to preserve and promote centuries-old traditions while adapting them to meet modern demands. If J&K government, craftsmen and crafts institutions could use this opportunity effectively for greater  global collaboration, sustainable practices, and market access, the forum sets the stage for a cultural and economic renaissance for Kashmir’s crafts, ensuring their relevance and resilience for generations to come.