Kashmir calligraphy is a well-established form of writing art. According to an Archaeological Survey of India publication, the scholar saint Sharif-ud-Din Bulbul introduced calligraphy to Kashmir in the fourteenth century. However, it was during the Mughal era that the art truly flourished. This period saw the emergence of many notable artists, such as Muhammad Husain, who served in Akbar’s court and was known as Zarin Kalam (golden pen), and Muhammad Murad, known as Shirin Kalam (sweet pen). Another distinguished calligrapher of the Mughal period was Ali Chaman.
Certain historical accounts suggest that Kashmiri calligraphers invented an indelible ink during the Mughal period. Yaqub Muhammad, the son of the renowned calligrapher Murad Kashmiri, who excelled in the Kufi style, even compiled a book on calligraphy.
In Kashmir, the art of calligraphy also holds traditional significance. Verses from the Quran can be seen written on the walls of shrines and mosques. Many faithful individuals even display beautifully written texts as wall hangings for good fortune.
Faiza Mehraj is a calligrapher by passion, who has revitalized the ancient craft of calligraphy, infusing it with new life and contemporary relevance. Her journey, marked by discovery, dedication, and devotion, resonates deeply with the rich cultural soul of Kashmir.
Faiza said her love with calligraphy began in 2018. Unlike many who inherit the art through family traditions, Faiza discovered it on her own. As she traced the elegant curves of Arabic letters, she felt an inexplicable connection to an art form that had adorned manuscripts, mosques, and monuments for centuries. The verses of the Quran, meticulously etched in Kufic script, whispered to her heart, urging her to explore this sacred path more deeply. What started as a simple interest soon blossomed into a lifelong passion, driving her to master various scripts and styles of calligraphy.
Faiza’s journey in calligraphy unfolded like the gradual unfurling of a parchment scroll. Faiza said she immersed herself in the study of different fonts, including Naskh, Tuluth, Dewani, Wissam, and Kufic. Her hands moved skillfully across paper, with ink flowing like a river of ancient wisdom. However, Faiza didn’t confine herself to traditional methods alone. Embracing the digital age, she bridged the gap between tradition and modernity. Her strokes began to grace screens, with pixels echoing the legacy of ink. This digital transition allowed her to reach a broader audience and preserve the art form in new and innovative ways.
“The achievement for me was that I discovered this art in me. I then learned this art and still I’m learning new things in this art. I am familiar with almost 6 fonts right now which are Naskh, Tuluth, Dewani, Wissam, Kufic.I am moving towards digital calligraphy now”, she said.
Faiza’s cozy residence soon became a sanctuary for budding calligraphers. Students gathered around her, eager to learn from her expertise. She taught them the art of patience, emphasizing the delicate balance between precision and passion that calligraphy demands. Her lessons extended beyond mere technique; they were about breathing life into letters and imbuing each stroke with meaning. Online platforms further extended her reach, connecting her with seekers of beauty across borders. Faiza’s classes became a beacon of inspiration, attracting students from diverse backgrounds who shared her passion for this timeless art.
One of Faiza’s most remarkable projects is a 30-meter scroll of Surah Yaseen. This ambitious undertaking was more than just an artistic endeavor; it was a spiritual journey. Faiza poured her heart into each stroke, infusing the verses with reverence and devotion. The paper absorbed her dedication, becoming a silent testament to her faith. Faiza said as she unrolled the scroll, she felt the weight of history and the whispers of scribes long gone, urging her forward. This project not only showcased her exceptional skill but also underscored the deep spiritual connection she has with her art.
Throughout her journey, Faiza’s family has been a pillar of support. Their encouragement has been a gentle breeze beneath her wings, enabling her to soar to new heights. They understand that her art is not just about ink and paper; it is a bridge between generations, preserving a rich cultural heritage. Looking ahead, Faiza dreams of organizing exhibitions, collaborating with other artists, and perhaps even sparking a revival of calligraphy’s golden age in Kashmir. Her vision is not just to keep the art form alive but to elevate it, ensuring that it continues to inspire future generations.
Faiza said she has woven words into beautiful tapestries that reflect the valley’s blend of tradition and innovation, faith and creativity. “My work is a celebration of Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage and a beacon of hope for the future of calligraphy.”
