PAPIER MACHE – A UNIQUE GIFT OF KASHMIR
PAPIER MACHE – A UNIQUE GIFT OF KASHMIR
BY
WARVET
Nature has bestowed its bounties upon Kashmir like no
other place. Majestic Himalayas, virgin lakes, pristine valleys and rich flora
and fauna give Kashmir the sobriquet of ‘Heaven on Earth’. Surrounded by such
beautiful environment, it was but natural for the people of this land to
develop an exalted sense of beauty leading to development of exquisite arts and
crafts. The valley is a treasure trove of articles of rare beauty and
craftsmanship and dominates the export market in Indian handicrafts. Papier Mache
is one of the most sought after art of Kashmir.
It is believed that the art came to Kashmir from Central
Asia. Two individuals are credited for its introduction in the valley in 15th
century CE. The most influential sufi preacher – Mir Syed Ali Hamadani who came
from Hamadan, Iran invited accomplished craftsmen from his native place. His
tomb – ‘Khankah - e - Maula’ in downtown Srinagar is the best place to witness
intricate papier mache work on walls, doors, windows and ceiling. Sultan Zain – ul – Abideen, the most loved
ruler of Kashmir till date, also venerated as ‘Bud Shah’ or ‘Great King’ by
Kashmiris had spent few years in Samarkand before his accession. He too brought
with him hundreds of craftsmen to teach natives. Bud Shah was a visionary like
the Great Moghul Akbar and introduced number of arts and crafts in Kashmir. He
also promoted all religions and ruled on secular principles bringing much
needed respite to persecuted communities.
Initially, the art was called ‘Kar - e - Kalamdani’ as it was exclusively used to make pen cases.
Pen or Kalam was much venerated as object that enabled spread of knowledge by
written words. Nobles and learned men used to secure this writing equipment in
exquisite pen cases. Slowly, cases for storing medicines, seals, jewellery etc
became popular.
The art got a boost in 19th century when
pashmina shawls of Kashmir became a rage in France and thereby Europe as they
were flaunted by Josephine, the highly fashionable wife of emperor Napoleon
Bonaparte. French agents in Kashmir used to export exquisite pashmina shawls,
also called ‘Cashmere’, packed in specially crafted Kalamdani boxes. Soon these boxes themselves were being sought and
were exported in large quantities. Such was the demand of these boxes in France
that they were soon being called as ‘Papier Mache’ (French) even in the valley.
‘Papier Mache’ in French means ‘Chewed Paper’. Two
class of artisans work in tandem to produce these articles – Sakhatsaaz and Naqqash. Sakhatsaazi involves using a mixture of paper pulp, rice
straw, copper sulphate and rice glue to make specific articles with the help of
moulds. Later, the article is finished using files and sand paper to give a
smooth surface.Then, the Naqqash
paints the article using organic colours and with a free hand draws mesmerising
motifs of Kashmir flora and fauna and historic themes like royal hunts and
court scenes. Chinar leaves, almond and paisley patterns, kingfishers and
bulbuls are popular choices for painting. A layer of lacquer is finally applied
for waterproofing and shine. Beautiful papier mache furniture with wooden core
too is popular.
Utilitarian items like trays, coasters, plates, pen
stands, book stands and decorative items like lamps, vases, photo frames,
screens, wall hangings sell like hot cakes in Srinagar emporia as well as all
over the world. The craft is a purely cottage industry providing employment to
thousands of people in downtown Srinagar and hinterland. The skill is passed on
from generation to generation in families. However, due to modernisation and
development, with more avenues of employment available, number of artisans is
falling. There is a need for government support to ensure the continuity of
this rare exquisite art that has been one of the most precious offerings of
Kashmir.
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