Jammu, March 16. Traditional crafts like wall painting, Khadi-based cotton weaving, and Pashmina weaving – which were on the verge of extinction in Jammu and Kashmir – are now re-emerging in new forms and shapes, allowing the local population to fully utilize their skills.
Various Central government schemes and policies deserve mention for promoting traditional industries, thereby providing new opportunities for artisans in the arts and handicrafts sector.
Artisans and weavers are now focusing on self-reliance by integrating their traditional skills with modern markets.
Wall painting has been an ancient artistic tradition in the Jammu region, visible on the walls of temples, old palaces, and havelis (traditional mansions). These paintings depict religious narratives, local folklore, and scenes from the daily lives of common people. Today, this traditional art form is being revitalized by new artists and researchers. Young artists associated with the fields of Fine Arts and Museology are not only preserving this art but also providing it with a modern platform.
The Khadi and Handloom industry has traditionally been important in the Jammu region. Hand-woven cotton is not only eco-friendly but also serves as a primary source of livelihood for local artisans. Through initiatives by the Department of Khadi and Handloom, artisans are gaining access to training, tools, and markets, thereby propelling this traditional industry forward with renewed vigour.
Pashmina weaving is a renowned and historic handicraft tradition in Jammu and Kashmir, which many families have kept alive for generations. This art form involves crafting items from extremely fine wool and enjoys significant demand internationally.
While preserving this traditional art form, local weavers are today becoming entrepreneurs, taking their products to wider markets.
Artisans working in traditional sectors such as art, Khadi, and Pashmina state that government incentives and schemes have enabled them to further their work.
This has not only helped them preserve traditional arts and crafts but has also generated new avenues for employment and self-employment for the local population.
