Srinagar, Mar 25: Miras Carpet Industries has become a symbol of resilience, heritage, and dedication to Kashmiri craftsmanship. Founded by brothers Mir Nawaz and Mir Waseem, the company has played a crucial role in reviving the hand-knotted carpet weaving and pashmina shawl-making traditions of Kashmir.
Born into a middle-class family in Kashmir, the brothers were raised with strong values of hard work and integrity. Their father, a junior engineer in the power department, worked tirelessly to provide for them. Despite financial limitations, they maintained a deep connection to their cultural heritage.
The 1990s were a period of turmoil in Kashmir, and the region’s centuries-old craft of hand-knotted carpets and pashmina shawls began to fade. Many artisans, struggling to sustain themselves, were forced to abandon their craft. Witnessing this decline, Mir Nawaz and Mir Waseem felt a responsibility and urge to revive the industry and provide artisans with opportunities.
In 2005, with a modest loan of ₹50,000, the brothers opened their first shop in Hampi, Karnataka. They named their brand Miras, meaning “legacy,” and committed to restoring Kashmir’s artisanal traditions. By offering fair wages and dignified working conditions, they ensured that every piece under the Miras banner was a reflection of tradition, artistry, and perseverance.
What started as a small venture quickly gained recognition for its quality and authenticity. Miras Carpet Industries grew into a renowned brand, setting industry benchmarks. Today, the company operates over 20 carpet factories, employs 250 skilled weavers, and runs 36 pashmina looms.
Miras specializes in high-quality, hand-knotted carpets made from wool, silk-on-wool, and silk-on-silk, along with finely woven pashmina shawls. Their excellence has earned them a GI Tag for authentic pashmina, Kani, and Sozni shawls. Their carpets now adorn luxury hotels, VVIP lounges, and heritage mansions.
The company has also expanded significantly, now boasting nine stores across South India and a growing global presence. Currently, 80% of Miras Carpet Industries’ business is export-driven, with handcrafted carpets and pashmina shawls reaching markets in the USA, Europe, and the Middle East.
To cater to modern consumers, Miras Carpet Industries launched an online platform, Miras Crafts. Customers in India can access collections at www.mirascrafts.in, while global buyers can explore their offerings at www.mirascrafts.com. This ensures that Kashmiri craftsmanship is accessible worldwide.
Beyond creating world-class products, Miras Carpet Industries has provided employment and empowered unemployed youth through skill development programs. The brand has achieved a record-setting 40 knots per square inch in carpet weaving—an unparalleled feat in the industry.
Strategic partnerships with banks have enabled exclusive discounts at flagship stores. The company also plans to expand further, with ten new stores set to launch in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune, and Gujarat, bringing Kashmiri artistry to a wider audience.
As part of its expansion, Miras Carpet Industries is establishing a state-of-the-art headquarters in Gulmarg, Kashmir, spanning 65,000 square meters. The facility will not only serve as the company’s central hub but also feature live carpet looms, allowing visitors to witness the intricate weaving process. This initiative aims to sustain employment for hundreds of skilled artisans while showcasing Kashmir’s rich craftsmanship.
The journey of Miras Carpet Industries is one of revival, resilience, and vision. Mir Nawaz and Mir Waseem transformed despair into hope, ensuring that Kashmir’s artisanal legacy thrives on the global stage. Their story stands as a testament to entrepreneurship, perseverance, and the timeless beauty woven into every carpet and shawl.
With continued growth and global recognition, Miras Carpet Industries remains a beacon of hope for Kashmiri artisans, preserving traditions for generations to come.
