Budgam, Nov 30 (KNO): Ali Mohammad Dar, an elderly artisan from the Charar-e-Sharif area of central Kashmir's Budgam district, is celebrated for crafting exquisite Kashmiri Kangris (firepots). Recognised as the valley’s finest Kangri-maker, Dar was honoured with the prestigious Best Kangri-Maker Award in 2022 by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
Speaking to the news agency – Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Dar delved deep into his craft, a tradition deeply rooted in Kashmir's cultural heritage and passed down through generations.
“Among all the varieties, the Charar Kangri stands out for its uniqueness and cultural significance,” he said. “Named after the revered Sufi saint Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani, it holds a special place as an artefact linked to the saint’s ancestral lands.”
For the past 50 years, Dar has been dedicated to crafting Kangris, a skill he learned in his youth. He said that while there was once a robust demand for Kangris—particularly those from Charar-e-Sharif—modern gadgets like electric heaters have diminished their popularity.
“It’s disheartening to see the decline in demand. Many artisans who once relied on Kangri-making as a livelihood now struggle during the winters,” he lamented.
Dar’s craft, however, remains unparalleled. He specialises in creating “gift piece Kangris”, intricate designs often used to package dry fruits. These Kangris are highly prized, and cost between Rs 15,000 and Rs 30,000 in the market. Each piece takes him around 20 days to complete.
“I’m perhaps one of the last artisans creating such gift pieces, and my Kangris have even reached international markets,” he said proudly.
After winning the Best Kangri-Maker Award in 2022, the government began providing Dar with a monthly pension of Rs 8,000. However, he called for additional support to sustain this dying art.
“I’ve been urging the government to establish a workshop where I can train the younger generation in this craft. This is essential to keep the tradition alive,” he said. “Unfortunately, no steps have been taken so far.”
Ali expressed concern over the lack of interest among the youth in Kangri-making, attributing it to the growing preference for modern heating solutions and a shift away from traditional customs. However, he remains hopeful that workshops and training programs could revive the craft. “Workshops could attract young people and breathe new life into this art form,” he added.
Dar also highlighted the unique features of the Charar Kangri, crafted using special materials like Poshe Kani (decorative wool), which distinguish it from other types. (KNO)