Srinagar, Feb 16:An elderly woodcarver, passionate about his craft, has been carving wood in downtown Srinagar for over many decades. Over the time, he has mastered the art and creates human portraits on wooden pieces.
Abdul Aziz Gujri, now in his late 60s, is known for his remarkable wood carving skills. His workshop, located in the Fateh Kadal area, is where he carefully carves intricate designs into wood. His work reflects the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir, which artisans like him continue to preserve.
“I have been doing this work for a long time. It feels like I started in my childhood. I’ve been carving for almost fifty years,” he told Rising Kashmir.
However, with age catching up to him, Aziz is unable to work as he once did. “I can only carve for two or three hours a day due to my age,” he said.
With the expertise he has gained over the years, Aziz creates human portraits on wood. The smaller pieces he makes are mostly bought by tourists.
“It doesn’t require too many tools, just five or six main ones are enough to create these wooden artworks, and a few specialized tools help in making the masterpieces,” he said.
Aziz’s work is also sent to foreign countries, with tourists being his primary buyers. “Kashmiri locals don’t bu these products much; most of our sales come from tourists, as they show more interest in these handmade items,” he said.
