Kani Shawl weaving in Kashmir, India - 06/21/2024

A Kashmiri artisan is weaving a traditional Kani Shawl on a loom in a shawl weaving factory on the outskirts of Srinagar. A traditional Kani Shawl in Kashmir is showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship and detailed artistry that have been revered since the Mughal Era. Handwoven using the finest Pashmina yarn from Changthangi goats, these shawls are embodying luxury and heritage. The intricate patterns, inspired by Mughal designs of flowers and leaves, are being meticulously created using wooden needles instead of shuttles. Guided by the 'Talim' code, each colour and thread is being carefully orchestrated by skilled artisans, transforming the designs from graph paper into woven masterpieces. This labour-intensive process, requiring 5 to 7 hours of work daily, means that a single shawl can take anywhere from 6 to 18 months to complete. The uniqueness and authenticity of Kani Shawls are being protected by a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, ensuring that only those made in this specific region using traditional methods can bear the name. Despite modern imitations, the true Kani Shawl is remaining an unparalleled symbol of patience, skill, and cultural legacy.