Handicrafts of Jammu & Kashmir – Face of the State’s Culture

The first word that comes to our mind when we think about Jammu & Kashmir is the state’s unique handicraft industry. Handicrafts of Jammu & Kashmir are considered as one of the best in the world. The state, with its unparalleled beauty all around, has been nicknamed rightly as “paradise on earth”. Creating handicrafts is an important occupation of the people of this state. Many people make handicrafts to earn their daily bread. The craftsmanship of local artisans is highly commendable. Many tourists from across the world come to the state to buy handicrafts from here. 

Excellent Varieties of Handicrafts 

While there are so many things that define the culture of the state, handicrafts clearly rule the roost. Here are some of the most famous types of handicrafts that are produced in the state:

• Wood carvings – Carvings made out of walnut and chinar wood form an important part of the state’s handicrafts. Furniture, decorative boxes and other items are intricately carved with wood by the local artisans and put on display at the innumerable handicraft stores here.
• Paper Mache – Items made of coloured paper pulp are in great demand in Jammu & Kashmir. The mould made from this paper mache is used to make items like dolls, souvenirs and the like.
• Carpets – Kashmiri carpets are world famous. These are fine yards of wool and silk woven personally by the artisans without the interference of any machines. Carpet making in Kashmir has been the tradition since many centuries now. The art was introduced to the state from Persia and even today, the carpets of Kashmir have a heavy Persian influence on them.

Essence of the State’s Culture 

It is not surprising then, that these handicrafts have grown on to become the true representation of the culture of Jammu and Kashmir. There are not many places in the world that have earned a name of themselves in the field of handicrafts. Jammu & Kashmir figures right on top of the list here. Once you visit the state and have a personal experience of the rich handicrafts here, you will understand as to why there is a huge international market for the goods manufactured here. Items like shawls and carpets are indeed quite expensive here; however it is worth every penny because the quality of these items is top-notch and unique. Spun and woven by artisans with their hands, these items are world-famous for their quality and durability.