Just a few days ago, I found myself winding through serene, enchanting lush green valleys of Kashmir: A place whose beauty is beyond human imagination and interpretation. As I drove through its swirling roads flanked by tall chinars trees, cherry orchards and lavenders lawns, it recounted me of old bollywood movie scenes from 1990s and the famous Persian couplets on Kashmir by Amir Khusrau “Gar firdaus bar-rue zamin ast, hami asto, hamin asto, hamin ast.”
The cold and scented breeze provided much needed respite from my hometown in Rajasthan’s blazing heat waves. The air was fresh and clean and the weather; a perfect symphony of sunshine and warmth. The mountains stood like guardians with its snow draped peaks glowing with dazzling brilliance of sunrays painting the sky a vibrant blue. But more than the stunning views, it was the Kashmiriyat, the kindness and warmth, the attitude towards tourists which touched my heart the most. I was welcomed with coconut cookies and a cup of Kahwa served in traditional Samovar in almost every house I dropped-in.
What stood out to me the most was how everything in Kashmir is done with utmost care and patience. One can feel this not just in the daily lifestyle of a Kashmiri but also in the way they sew their traditional attire say for Kani, Aari, Sozni and numerous others embroidery styles.
The art of Sozni embroidery truly spoke to the soul. Inside a small artisan workshop in Srinagar, a craftsman knitting in complete focus, his needle dancing over a soft pashmina shawl rhythmically as if he was in conversation with the cloth. There was no rush, no haste but only care, precision, and patience. It felt like I was witnessing not just a craft but a legacy.
Sozni embroidery is one of the most detailed & refined forms of needlework. Traditionally done on fine wool like Shahtoosh, Pashmina using silk threads; Artisans create floral, paisley motifs that seem to grow naturally across the wool, just like the scenic meadows of the Vale of Kashmir. It takes weeks and sometimes months to complete even a single piece. Most of the artisans have learned this craft from their fathers and forefathers in turn preserving age-old traditions with every needle that pierces the fine wool.
Today Sozni is the symbol of Kashmiri identity and resilience. In the word that chases fast results, Sozni is an epitome of perseverance and persistence which reminds us of the value of time, craftsmanship and heritage.
As I left Kashmir with a small hand embroidered Sozni saree in my bag, I realized I was not just carrying a souvenir but a story, a story stitched with love, care and patience from the heart of valley.
(The author with her unique blend of literary prowess and a keen interest in exploring diverse subjects has a passion for writing and a drive to serve the nation through civil services. Readers can reach the author at: [email protected])
