Clay pottery business of Kashmir gets a new lease of life

Srinagar, Jan 14 (ANI): The declining business of clay pottery in Kashmir has got a new lease of life with the pottery makers coming up with innovative designs.

The craft development institute has helped in making the potters adopt innovative designs and colours.

"We try to understand the requirements of the local markets and meet their kind of demands, for example lighting items like candles, earthen lamps and candle holders, the local peoples needs and demands and it also comes under their lifestyle," said Shariq Farooqi, Director, Craft Development Institute.

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The institute is also in close touch with themselves artisans by guiding them how to sustain in the market.

"Basically, we have been given the task to lay more emphasis on the designs of these potteries. Because of this, the demand has started picking up," said Noor Mohammad, a maker.

Earlier, the artisans used to make only utensils and other kitchenware out of the clay used for the daily household uses. Sensing the lessening demand of this craft, the artisans are nowadays concentrating more on the colorful and decorative products, which are attracting the customers.

As the trend of using ornamental clay items for the interior decoration of the houses are catching, the imagination of many in valley, the demand for these crafts has also gone up.

"The designs that were used earlier are now changing with the times. New designs are being introduced. Demands have started coming from various places. So I think the local artisans should use their skills for new innovative designs that can suit the current generation," said Akhtar Hussain, a student.

The craftsman these days focus on clay table lamps, candleholders, designer tiles and other decorative items.

More than 200 families in Srinagar alone are engaged in clay potteries and crafts. By Parvez Butt (ANI)