by Moin Ul Islam
SRINAGAR: In the heart of Bandipora’s Sadrkoot Bala, an exceptional figure stands tall, shaping the very essence of Kashmir’s ancient art of stone carving. Meet Abdul Aziz Wani, a 60-year-old artisan, who, for half a century, has immersed himself in the tradition of transforming raw stones into masterpieces. It is an art form that has remained revered across the faiths in the last more than a millennium.
Known locally as Sang Taraash, these artisans, of whom Aziz is a prominent representative, safeguard a tradition as ancient as the roots of the Kashmiri civilization itself. For many millennia, these stone artists would make stone palaces or chisel idols out of the stones. After Kashmir transitioned to Islam, they made tombstones and gravestones. However, one thing that remained constant was the making of mortar and pestle and home grinders.
Aziz’s journey into the intricate world of stone carving began at the tender age of 10, under the guidance of his father. A virtuoso in his craft, Aziz gained widespread recognition in 2023 when a stone carved with the names of Allah and Prophet Muhammad, the result of an entire month’s dedication, caught the eye of social media.
Recently, spurred by his daughter’s inspiration, Aziz showcased his mastery by crafting a stone clock, a testament to four days of relentless work. “Preserving culture and tradition is a collective effort,” he said, insisting all artists are contributing to the cultural fabric. “All artists should be supported and appreciated.”
Aziz’s life path was etched in poverty, devoid of the privileges of formal education. “From childhood, I was thinking of doing something out of the usual,” he said. His brother, also engaged in the craft, echoes this sentiment, highlighting that in Sadrkoot Bala, stone carving transcends being just an art form—it becomes a lifeline, especially in the absence of alternative resources like orchards or agricultural land.
A parent to five daughters and one son, Aziz emphasises the vital role his stone carving profession plays in providing essentials and education for his children. “It’s all through hard work that one can attain a position of earning a livelihood, not by doing nothing and sitting at home,” he said.
For Aziz, his work is not just a livelihood; it’s a form of prayer. With hope in his heart, he envisions that his unique carvings will influence the younger generation, trusting that they will carry forward this timeless tradition.
“I am just a labourer; only through honesty about my profession and hard work have I gained this recognition,” Aziz asserted. He said he will continue to work the same way as he has been doing for the last half-century.
