Kashmir’s Magic Carpet - Art And Culture | UPSC Learning

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Kashmir’s Magic Carpet

Kashmir’s Magic Carpet

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art and culture

đź“– Introduction

<h4>Introduction to Kashmir's Magic Carpet</h4><p>The <strong>Hazratbal Dargah</strong> in <strong>Srinagar</strong> recently attracted locals for a rare spectacle. This event involved the washing and clipping of the largest carpet ever woven in <strong>Kashmir</strong>.</p><p>This monumental creation is often referred to as <strong>Kashmir’s Magic Carpet</strong>, symbolizing the region's rich artisanal heritage and resilience.</p><h4>Description and Creation of the Magic Carpet</h4><p>This intricate marvel is crafted in the renowned <strong>Kashan Style</strong>, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and dedication.</p><div class="info-box"><strong>Dimensions:</strong> 72 feet (length) x 40 feet (width)<br><strong>Weight:</strong> 1,685 kg<br><strong>Knots:</strong> Over three crore knots</div><p>The weaving of this carpet was a demanding process, taking <strong>eight years</strong> to complete. Artisans returned to their traditional trade, overcoming numerous obstacles.</p><div class="key-point-box"><strong>Challenges Faced During Creation:</strong><ul><li>The devastating <strong>2014 floods</strong> in Jammu and Kashmir.</li><li>The <strong>abrogation of Article 370</strong> in Jammu and Kashmir in <strong>2019</strong>.</li><li>Multiple waves of the <strong>Covid-19 pandemic</strong>.</li></ul></div><p>Managing such a massive carpet requires significant human effort. At least <strong>30 people</strong> are needed just to unroll it.</p><p>A dedicated team of <strong>30-35 professional washers</strong> meticulously tends to the carpet on a daily basis, ensuring its pristine condition.</p><p>This magnificent carpet is anticipated to embellish a prestigious <strong>palace in the Middle East</strong>, highlighting its global appeal and luxury status.</p><p>Kashmiri artisans are now directly competing with their long-standing <strong>Iranian competitors</strong>, who once crafted a carpet the size of a soccer field (<strong>60,468 square feet</strong>).</p><h4>Understanding the Kashan Style</h4><p>The carpet adheres to the distinctive <strong>Kashan style</strong>, a historic design tradition borrowed from the ancient Iranian city of <strong>Kashan</strong>.</p><div class="info-box"><strong>Origin of Kashan Style:</strong> Historic city of <strong>Kashan</strong> in <strong>Persia</strong> (modern-day <strong>Iran</strong>).</div><p>The <strong>Kashan style of ceramic art</strong> and carpet weaving has captivated art enthusiasts for centuries due to its exquisite execution and intricate patterns.</p><div class="key-point-box">The <strong>Kashan weave</strong> represents a harmonious blend of <strong>tradition</strong>, <strong>innovation</strong>, and profound <strong>artistic finesse</strong>.</div>
Concept Diagram

đź’ˇ Key Takeaways

  • •Kashmir's Magic Carpet is the largest ever woven in the region, showcasing monumental craftsmanship.
  • •It was created in the Kashan style, a design tradition originating from Persia (Iran).
  • •Artisans overcame significant challenges including floods, Article 370 abrogation, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • •The carpet weighs 1,685 kg, measures 72x40 feet, and has over three crore knots.
  • •It is destined for a palace in the Middle East, highlighting its global market value.
  • •The project symbolizes the revival of Kashmir's traditional artisan economy and cultural heritage.

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