BUDGAM: In an effort to provide a unique and distinct look to Kashmiri Kangri (Traditional firepot) , an artisan from the Charar-I-Sharif town in Central Kashmir’s Budgam district has crafted the largest kangri so far, establishing a new record in the art of kangri making, a unique practice in Kashmir valley.
Speaking to Rising Kashmir, Ali Mohammad Dar said that he has been practising the craft from past 50 years. He acquired his skills from various teachers who were engaged in the craft of kangri-making within his locality. His instructors were renowned artisans in the field of kangri production during that era, particularly in the Charar-I-Sharif area.
“After receiving comprehensive training in the art of Kangri making, I established my own production operation at home, thereby initiating my own business. The sticks utilized in the creation of the Kangris are sourced from various areas of the Kashmir Valley, “Dar said.
He said, “During my lifetime, I have earned my source of income from this craft for the last 50 years, through which I fulfill all the basic needs of my family. I didn’t have any source of income except this work. I have given everything to this work, so that this art is preserved in Kashmir Valley from one generation to another generation. Through our next generation, people can also earn their source of income from this work.”
I have crafted four largest kangris for my home, dedicating over 50 days to complete them during October and November 2024. All four kangris are designed for brides, making them suitable gifts for marriage ceremonies. The price of one kangri is Rs 3,000, another is priced at Rs 15,000, the third kangri costs Rs 16,000, and the largest kangri ranges from Rs 20,000 to Rs 22,000. Few customers have already purchased kangris from me. Anyone interested in buying a kangri can contact me to purchase at the standard rates, Dar said.
He stated that the devotees visiting the Ziyarat Shareef of Sheikh-ul-Alam (RA) at Charar-I-Sharif are buyig kangris from us as gifts associated with Charar-I-Sharif. The Kashmir Valley is home to numerous artisans skilled in kangri-making, who produce these traditional items across various districts. However, the craftsmanship of the artisans from the Charar-I-Sharif town is notably distinct, as they possess extensive experience in this art form. Consequently, there exists a significant difference between the kangris crafted in Charar-I-Sharif and those made in other districts of Kashmir.
“There are several skilled artisans in our area engaged in this craft in Charar-I-Sharif. Previously, a significant number of individuals were involved in this work. I have formally approached the Department of Handicrafts in Kashmir to request the establishment of a training center where I can educate local residents and unemployed youth. If the government can facilitate the creation of such a center, I will be able to offer training to those interested in the arts, ensuring the preservation of this craft in Kashmir while also providing opportunities for individuals to earn a livelihood through it,” Dar said.
Recognising his immense skills in this distinct art and craft, Dar has bdeen conferred upon the state-level award in the year 2022. “I along with one more artisan from my area have received the award in the field of kangri-making art. This award was presented by the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to both of us,” he said.
Ghulam Nabi Mir, another well-known artisan from Charar-I-Sharif, said that he has learned this skill from his father, who was a well-known artisan in this craft during his time period. The kangri industry in the Charar-I-sharif town is one of the industries where most of the people are earning their livelihood from this work.
“The Kangri industry serves as a significant source of livelihood for many individuals, both directly and indirectly involved in this business. The specialized sticks utilized in the Charar-I-Sharif Kangri are sourced directly from the residents of the Pulwama and Shopian districts. In contrast, the earthen pots used in the Kangri are procured from local potters, who craft them from clay in their homes, thereby also supporting their livelihoods through this industry, “Mir noted.
He further explained that after producing numerous Kangris in their homes, they sell these items to customers from various districts within the Kashmir Valley. These customers, in turn, distribute the Kangris to local residents across different areas, creating a substantial source of income from this craft, particularly during the winter season.
“The artisans in the Charar-I-Sharif area are engaged in making various types of kangris, which are being used as decorative pieces in hotels, restaurants, showrooms, and homes. Notably, these artisans have achieved a remarkable feat by crafting both the largest and smallest kangris of the Kashmir Valley, “he said.
Mir emphasized the significance of the Kashmiri kangri within the cultural and heritage landscape of Kashmir, noting that tourists from around the world are buying these kangris as souvenirs of their visit. The tradition of kangri making has been diligently maintained by artisans throughout the Kashmir Valley. It is now the responsibility of the younger generation, who are eager to learn this craft, to ensure the preservation of this art form for future generations.
