Falak Bilal
Srinagar, Jul 21: In a modest training centre tucked away in the historic locality of Mir Behri along the banks of Dal Lake, the rhythmic sound of hands pressing and shaping wool signals more than the revival of a centuries-old craft. It tells the story of women reclaiming tradition, finding economic independence, and ensuring that Kashmir’s iconic Namda art does not fade into history.
For generations, Namda—the distinctive felted carpet made from sheep wool—has been an integral part of Kashmir’s artistic heritage. Unlike conventional carpets that are woven on looms, Namda is created by felting wool using moisture, pressure and skilled handwork before being adorned with elaborate chain-stitch embroidery. Once associated with the Mughal courts, where it was used to keep horses warm, the craft gradually became a prized household furnishing across the Valley.
In recent decades, however, dwindling demand, changing market trends and a shortage of skilled artisans pushed the craft towards decline.
Now, a fresh wave of enthusiasm is emerging from the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom’s training centre in Mir Behri, where dozens of women are learning every stage of Namda production—from preparing raw wool and felting to designing and embroidery.
Among them is Khadija, who enrolled in the programme with little practical knowledge of the craft despite hearing about it throughout her childhood.
“Namda has always been part of our conversations at home, but I never realised how much effort and skill go into making a single piece,” Khadija said while carefully tracing floral patterns onto a newly prepared felt base.
“I joined because I wanted to learn a skill that would allow me to earn with dignity. Today, every design I complete gives me confidence that I can contribute to my family’s future while protecting our cultural heritage.”
The trainees receive a modest monthly stipend during the course, but many say the greatest benefit extends beyond financial assistance.
“The stipend helps, but the real value is the confidence we gain,” Khadija added. “When you create something with your own hands and people appreciate it, you begin to believe in yourself.”
Officials associated with the training programme say the initiative is aimed not only at preserving traditional craftsmanship but also at creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for women.
“Namda is one of Kashmir’s oldest handicrafts and forms an important part of our cultural identity,” an official from the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom said. “Through structured training, we want to develop a new generation of skilled artisans who can keep the craft alive while also earning a respectable income.”
Inside the workshop, women sit in groups, patiently mastering techniques that once passed naturally from one generation to the next. Every finished piece represents hours of labour, precision and artistic expression.
For many trainees, the experience has become a journey of personal transformation.
“Earlier I never imagined I could create something so beautiful,” said another trainee. “Now I want to continue this work from home after completing the course. It has opened a new path for me.”
Local artisans believe involving women in traditional crafts could play a crucial role in safeguarding Kashmir’s rich handmade legacy.
“Our crafts survive only when younger generations are willing to learn,” said a senior Namda artisan mentoring trainees. “These women are proving that heritage is not something to be admired only in museums—it must be practised, preserved and passed on.”
As colourful floral motifs slowly emerge on sheets of compressed wool, the training centre reflects a quiet but determined revival. What was once viewed as a vanishing craft is steadily finding new custodians in women who see Namda not merely as a carpet, but as a symbol of Kashmir’s identity.
“If we don’t learn these crafts today, they may disappear tomorrow,” Khadija said. “We have inherited this legacy, and it is our responsibility to carry it forward for the next generation.”
