Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Jan 23: In a quiet workshop in Srinagar, Mohammad Yousuf Muran, a 60-year-old deaf and mute artisan, is devoting his life to preserving Kashmir’s rich tradition of walnut wood carving. For over five decades, Muran has been crafting intricate luxury pieces, ranging in value from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 50 lakh. Despite his personal struggles, he remains one of the last remaining masters of this delicate art form.
Speaking to the news agency – Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Muran’s nephew, Mudasir Muran, said his uncle has been creating walnut wood masterpieces for more than 40 years. He said Yousuf is likely the only artisan still dedicated to producing such high-end handmade items, a craft that is steadily fading into obscurity.
According to Mudasir, there is still a niche demand for hand-carved walnut wood pieces, particularly among customers who value handmade items over machine-made alternatives. However, he lamented that government efforts to preserve this craft have largely been superficial.
“Government initiatives seem to be confined to photoshoots and publicity campaigns. Unless serious interventions are made, this dying art cannot be saved,” Mudasir said.
Walnut wood carving, introduced to Kashmir by Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom (RA) during the reign of Zain-ul-Abideen in the 15th century, was historically promoted as a means to boost the valley’s economy. But today, the craft faces challenges from changing market trends, economic realities, and a lack of interest from the younger generation.
Despite these challenges, Mudasir said his uncle has adapted to new designs and market trends. Muran, along with other artisans at their woodhouse, continues to innovate and meet modern demands. However, Mudasir said that meaningful government support is essential to prevent the craft from disappearing entirely.
“Declaring Srinagar as a ‘Craft City’ has given some recognition to the art, but the ground reality remains unchanged,” he said. “We hope that this recognition will eventually bring positive changes.”
Over the years, Mohammad Yousuf Muran has received several awards for his exceptional craftsmanship, including a state-level award. He was also nominated for the Padma Shri, though he did not receive it.
“Our products have reached every corner of the world, and there is still good demand for them if one knows how to channelise it properly,” Mudasir said, adding that success in this field requires persistence. He urged Kashmiri youth to take up handicrafts as a viable source of employment.
Walnut wood carving, once deeply embedded in Kashmir’s culture, now faces a grim reality. The allure of mass-produced, cheaper alternatives has overshadowed the intricate beauty of hand-carved creations.
Other artisans said the younger generation’s focus on instant gratification through online platforms has diminished the appreciation for the patience and skill required for this craft.
As master carvers age or pass away, the lack of successors puts the knowledge and techniques passed down through generations at risk of extinction.
Economic considerations also play a role, with mass-manufactured goods proving more cost-effective than labour-intensive hand-carving, further reducing demand for handmade artefacts—(KNO)
