Suhail Bhat
Srinagar, Feb 6: With over four decades of expertise, 50-year-old Ghulam Hussain stands out as one of the Valley’s few adept carpet darners, skillfully restoring valuable carpets afflicted by tears, burns, or fabric decomposition.
Hailing from the Hassanbad area of Rainawari in Srinagar, Hussain is among the remaining few darners specialising in the intricate craft. Darning, a traditional art form in Srinagar that evolved alongside carpet weaving, holds the power to rejuvenate ageing carpets. However, despite its significance, artisans like Hussain receive meagre compensation for their meticulous work, passed down through generations.
Darning, locally known as ‘Rafoogari’, demands precision in matching colours and weaves to seamlessly integrate repaired patches with the existing fabric. “It is more than just stitching. It is an art that breathes life back into these antique carpets. Preserving history and culture is integral to our craft,” explains Hussain, his hands deftly manoeuvring through threads and fibres.
Yet, the reality for artisans like Hussain remains harshly pragmatic. “We are paid peanuts for our painstaking labour,” he laments, a sentiment echoed across the dwindling community of darners. Despite their invaluable contribution to preserving Kashmir’s heritage, their earnings barely sustain basic needs.
Reflecting on his journey spanning nearly three decades, Hussain recalls restoring carpets not only from Kashmir but also from places like America and Iran. However, his workspace remains humble, a dimly lit room underscoring the challenges he confronts daily.
“I started with carpet weaving but entered into the repairing after some years. I have been associated with the art since my childhood,” he said.
Recently, Hussain’s craftsmanship gained recognition through a radio programme highlighting his contributions by the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha. He said although the recognition encouraged him tangible support remains elusive amidst promises from officials. “I have faced many problems, and the support I long for remains elusive,” he said.
Despite the hurdles, Hussain remains dedicated to his craft, traversing streets from house to house, ensuring these carpets receive the care they deserve.
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