In an endeavor to revive declining Kashmir art and also create an attraction for craft lovers in Srinagar, a first-of-its kind handicraft cluster is on anvil in the summer capital.
The proposed cluster, for which 20 kanal of land has been identified by the government near Bemina, will be a major tourist attraction, officials said. The cluster, which will include an exhibition-cum-sale and workplace, will offer a state-of-the art facility.
As per the proposal, ground floor of the building in cluster will provide space for artisans to work while as upper levels will showcase their crafts.
Art and craft hold a significant place in Kashmir’s history and this is one the aesthetic elements we are identified with. Our objective is to help provide a cluster for artisans so that they can work in self-help groups under one roof. Deputy commissioner Srinagar, Syed Abid Rasheed Shah also added that the cluster will provide facilities to hundreds of artisans.
In-order to bring the marginalized artisans’ into the mainstream, the government is also planning to register 50,000 artisans on its web portal in next one year. As per officials geo-mapping of artisan clusters such as Downtown Srinagar and Wathoora in Budgam district will help to identify neglected craftsmen.
“Becoming a part of the portal will help artisans to do marketing of their products in a better way and will eradicate the middle men. We intend to have each artisan running a virtual showroom and expect this online facility to help them reach a wider client base.”
