Context: The first batch of Namda Art products for export to the United Kingdom was flagged off. Namda is a hand-embroidered rug made with sheep wool that reflects the rich culture and history of Kashmir Valley. Namda craft is under the process to get a Geographical Indication tag.
About Namda Craft
- It represents the traditional craftsmanship of Kashmir, focusing on the creation of rugs primarily crafted from pure sheep wool.
- Diverging from conventional rug-making methods, this craft employs the felting technique instead of the typical weaving process, eliminating any involvement of traditional weaving.
- The term ‘Namda’ refers to an additional layer crafted above a standard rug, utilizing old blankets in its construction. This versatile craft is designed to suit various climates.
- This artistic tradition is thought to have originated in the 11th century, attributed to the inventive Nomadic tribes of the Central Asian steppes.
- The art form gained popularity in India during the reign of the Mughal emperor Akbar.
- As per the historical records, Akbar’s exchequer named Nubi personally crafted a felt for Akbar’s horse and adorned it with beautiful designs through embroidery.
- This exquisite creation earned the name Namda in honour of its skilled manufacturer, Nubi.
- Artisans specializing in Namda can be found across India, particularly in regions like Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
- The craft is predominantly practiced by the Pinjara and Mansuri communities, who are Sama Muslims native to Kutch.
How is Namda made?
The intricate process involves multiple stages, including carding, border creation, layer formation, soap solution application, rolling, drying, and the meticulous Aari work.
- Involves carding the wool, a process dedicated to removing impurities and refining the material.
- Application of soap solution to wash the wool. Application of water to wool gives binding, enhancing the durability and longevity of the Namda.
- Namda undergoes rolling/pressuring using a tool called Pinjra and drying. In
- Weaver then attaches the border pattern to the wool to give the foundation.
- Next comes, initiation of the primary layer, and adding of the colour and pattern of the Namda.
- Aari work: This stage involves intricate embroidery that imparts a delicate form to the Namda.
Designing:
- Border (Hashi): Borders play a pivotal role in defining the central layout, preventing the Namda from resembling mere fabric.
- Double Khatamband: Interplay of octagons and squares.
- Taldaar: Derived from the Kashmiri word ‘Tal,’ meaning 'ceiling,' this motif mirrors the craftsmanship found in ceilings.
- Gul-i-akhtab: Reflecting its name, which translates to ‘flower of the sun,’ this Namda motif draws inspiration from the sunflower.
About Namda Project:
- Namda Project, an industry-based training program, was introduced in 2021.
- Namda craft is a rug made of sheep wool through a felting technique instead of the normal weaving process.
- It is being successfully revived under a Skill India’s Pilot Project as part of the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), with nearly 2,200 candidates from across six districts of the state, receiving training in the dying art form.
Need of the project:
- Unavailability of adequate raw materials;
- Dearth of skilled craftsmen;
- Infiltration of machine-made carpets;
- Adulteration and inadequate marketing strategies declined the export by almost 100 per cent and brought the heritage craft to the brink of extinction.