Ancient copper trade faces modern crisis in Kashmir
Srinagar, Feb 8: In the historic markets of Shehr-e-Khaas in downtown Srinagar, Kashmir’s centuries-old copper craft continues to endure amid mounting economic and social pressures. Areas such as Zaina Kadal and Khanyar remain among the last strongholds of the trade, where artisans still shape copper into samovars, trays, bowls, deghs and other household and ceremonial items that form an inseparable part of Kashmiri cultural life.
Kashmiri copperware is known both for its utility and aesthetic value. While decorative items retain their natural copper sheen, household utensils are traditionally coated with tin in a process locally known as Kalai Karyen, which enhances durability, hygiene and shine. Despite the labour-intensive nature of the work, handmade copperware continues to be preferred for weddings, religious functions and social gatherings.
Baghdadi Mohalla in Khanyar has historically been one of the most prominent centres of the Kandari craft. For generations, families in the area have remained associated with copperwork, passing down skills informally from elders to younger members.
Shabir Ahmad, a fourth-generation coppersmith from Srinagar, says the craft is deeply tied to identity and memory. “I learned by watching my father and grandfather work. This craft teaches patience, discipline and respect for tradition,” he says. Like many artisans, he began by assisting senior family members—handling tools, preparing materials and observing each stage of production—before mastering the techniques himself.
The craft relies on a network of specialised artisans, each responsible for a specific process. These include the Khar (smith), Naqash (engraver), Zarcod (gilder), Roshangar (polisher) and Charakgar (finisher). Entire localities such as Roshangar Mohalla are named after these traditional professions. Tools used include the Draz (hammer), Mekh (stakes), Yandrewah (anvil), along with chisels, punches, files and compasses locally known as Basta, Thaj, Sharanz, Gosheper and Angus.
However, the craft faces serious challenges. Cheap machine-made alternatives, slow production cycles, low income, harsh working conditions and changing consumer preferences have led to a steady decline. “Skilled workers are becoming harder to find,” Shabir says. “Many young people, even when unemployed, avoid physically demanding work in hot and dusty workshops.”
Despite this, artisans maintain that handmade copperware remains unmatched in quality. “Samovars cannot be made by machines. Handcrafted copper has sharper detailing and lasts longer,” Shabir says.
As workshops grow quieter and numbers shrink, Srinagar’s coppersmiths continue their struggle—not only to sustain livelihoods, but to ensure that a living heritage, shaped by centuries of skill and tradition, does not fade from Kashmir’s streets.
By: Ifra Shakeel
