Young girls in Kashmir today make their presence felt by opting for their dream jobs and becoming a role model for others who want to excel in their fields. By developing innovative approaches to business besides actively contributing to the economy of the state, these young entrepreneurs are definitely proving the toughest lot.
Nusrat Bashir Kar, 24, a resident of Krankshivan Colony in north Kashmir’s Sopore is one among those multi-talented girls who is proving her mettle at different levels. A Mehandi artist by passion, Nusrat has received accolades for her calligraphic skills at international level and is also making customized bracelets, necklaces, earrings, rings and Hijab pin cushions besides beautifully designed jewelry. She is also making crochet patterns and very well versed in fabric painting embroidery. She goes by the name ‘KraftyKaeshur’ on her social media pages.
For her applying Mehandi to brides is a passion besides she earns a good amount from bridal designs.
“Besides passion, it earns me a good amount of money but what makes me ardent about my job is that I give the brides a reason to smile, look happy and beautiful. I feel overwhelmed with gratitude and joy when brides or other people praise my work. The smile on the bride’s face makes me really happy,” Nusrat said.
A literature student, Nusrat wants to show the creative side of her art and ability. She started the mehandi designing when she was in 7th standard and that too on papers and walls. Right now she is the much sought after in marriage functions for her outstanding bridal mehandi designs. Besides her studies, she now enjoys the freedom to follow her dreams.
Nusrat’s advice to young girls is to start from trash and earn your name and fame! Why wait for some miracle which is never going to happen?
“There is a lot to do and get in this field. In early times, the brides used to get their mehandi done by males but for now, the trend has changed. The modern brides prefer female artists for this work. I think girls must opt for this work as a profession because this is something which will make them stand on their own,” she added.
Besides being a Mehandi artist, Nusrat is one of the topmost calligraphers of valley and has won accolades at International levels. She applies her calligraphic skills by writing name of bridegroom while applying Mehandi on brides also.
