Haji Bisma, a young girl from the remote village of Dooru Zamalgam in Anantnag, has carved out a unique space for herself in the world of calligraphy, inspiring others to follow their passions and pursue work that brings both satisfaction and success.
Bisma, who lives near the Mughal garden Verinag, developed her calligraphy skills through dedication and self-practice. She began her journey in 2021, balancing her art with a teaching career.
Speaking to Rising Kashmir, Bisma shared, “I completed my schooling in the village, then moved to Jammu for six years of study in a madrasa. After returning home, I started practicing calligraphy while also teaching at a school.”
After teaching for five years in Qazigund, Bisma decided to fully focus on her calligraphy. “I wanted to build a skill that would bring recognition. When you excel in your craft, your work speaks for you,” she said.
Bisma is a firm believer in the importance of skill development. “With unemployment on the rise, many educated people struggle to find jobs. Rather than waiting, it’s better to showcase your talent and create opportunities for yourself,” she explained.
She practices various forms of calligraphy, including Arabic and Urdu, and creates custom pieces for customers. “I write on tote bags, caps, and Nikah dupattas. Social media has helped me reach a wider audience, and many people get inspired by my work,” she added.
Bisma encouraged young people to find and nurture their own talents. “Parents often worry about their children’s future, but everyone has something special within them. If you haven’t discovered yours yet, it’s important to explore it,” she said.
Rejecting the notion that art yields no results, she added, “People think you gain nothing from art, but in reality, you gain peace of mind and a chance to express yourself. With dedication, your art will shine at the right time.”
