by Aiman Fayaz
SRINAGAR: In Kashmir, the age-old tradition of wearing unique headgear holds a special place in the hearts of the locals, particularly during the winter months. The diverse styles of headgear made in different parts of the region not only showcase the skills of local craftsmen but also reflect individual preferences.
The old city of Srinagar downtown is renowned for crafting traditional headgear. From crafting classic Karakuli to designing modern caps, the headgear artisans always adapt to evolving styles as demand grows.
These artisans adapt to evolving styles, meeting the demands of a diverse clientele. The headgear, crafted from materials like fur, fleece, wool, and warm fabrics, not only adds visual appeal but also provides practical warmth during the chilly winters.
Ghulam Rasool, 55, a seasoned headgear maker, reminisces about importing fur in bulk from countries like Pakistan and Afghanistan. Back then, he skillfully crafted headgear such as Karakuli and four-tier caps.
However, a government ban on fur dealt a blow to local artisans, impacting their livelihoods and altering the production landscape.
His craftsmanship drew visitors from places like Ladakh and Shimla, who frequented his shop seeking the unique and traditional headpieces he created.
The ban forced a shift in materials, causing a decline in the market value of traditional headgear. This change affected not only the artisans’ income but also posed a significant challenge to preserving the traditional charm of these headpieces.
The government’s ban on fur dealt a blow to local headgear makers like Ghulam Rasool, making it challenging to produce fur-based head caps.
Gaffar Ahmad, who makes fur gloves, shares how his lifelong job has changed. In the old days, weavers could support their families well. But now, with machines and the ban on fur, the job has lost its value.
Despite spending his life in a small wooden shop, Ahmad couldn’t fulfil his dream of upgrading to a sturdier one due to the market decline. The once-respected craft has sadly lost its shine, impacting the artisans’ livelihoods and the cultural heritage of Kashmir’s distinctive headgear tradition.
