Nestled in the ethereal valleys and cradled by the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayan mountains, a timeless artistic legacy endures. For centuries, Kashmiri Papier Mache art has triumphed over the trials of time. It serves as a vibrant testament to the exquisite craftsmanship and indomitable spirit of the Kashmiri people. Originating in the 14th century, this art form was introduced to the populace by the Sufi saint Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani, who arrived in the valley from Persia accompanied by a group of exceptional craftsmen proficient in various crafts. Through the medium of papier mache, Hamadani intertwined Islam with art, giving birth to an intricate tradition of creating embellished articles using paper, gum, and delicate designs.
While the mention of Kashmiri Papier Mache conjures images of a diverse range of intricately patterned articles today, it originally gained popularity under its Persian name, Kar-I-Qalamdan, during its nascent stage.
Presently, the Kashmiri papier mache craft is characterized by the creation of highly embellished and vibrant objects made from paper pulp hardened with gum or other natural adhesives. Crafting these exquisite pieces demands skill and expertise, involving a meticulous and multi-step process carried out by two groups of artists: the Sakhta makers and the Naqaash.
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