Abdul Aziz Gurji, 73, a master artisan with over six decades of expertise in Kashmir’s rich wood carving tradition, transforms discarded wood pieces into timeless treasures-an art possessed by only a few in the region.
Inside his dimly lit workshop in the Fateh Kadal locality of the old city, Gujri is engrossed in shaping a dull-looking wooden slab into an intricately crafted masterpiece. He has been transforming discarded wood into exquisite pieces for the last six decades, an age-old craft that has earned him both name and fame.
Unlike other artists, he does not use any sketches or outlines to shape his work but relies solely on his imagination. “Just like a poet uses imagination to structure a poem, I use mine to shape my pieces. It is poetry in motion,” he says with a slight smirk.
Every piece he chisels with his skilled hands is a testament to his talent. He specializes in crafting idols, effigies, and decorative items from discarded wood, relying on his keen eye and refined craftsmanship. “If I see something once, I can carve it out using my skill and the tools I have,” he said.
However, with fewer artisans taking up the trade and machine-made products dominating the market, the future of Kashmir’s traditional woodcarving remains uncertain. “New generations are not interested in this art. It takes a lifetime to master, and nobody wants to invest their time in it anymore,” he said.
Despite being honoured with multiple awards by the Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, in 2017 and state award in 2018, Gujri believes government support for artisans has been insufficient. “I am receiving Rs 8,000 per month as remuneration from the government,” he said.
The demand for traditional handicrafts has waned due to the influx of cheaper machine-made products. “There are only a few artists left. The market demand is low, and machine-made products are preferred because they are cheaper,” he lamented.
Gurji also notes a shift in buyer demographics. “Foreign tourists prefer the larger items I make, while Indian tourists love the idols. But Kashmiris are less interested due to religious beliefs,” he explained.
Although he no longer relies on his craft for income, he continues to carve to keep himself engaged. “Now, I continue it just to avoid boredom,” he added.
