Ghulam Nabi Dar, a 72-year-old master craftsman from Srinagar honoured with the Padma Shri for his contribution to wood carving, feels government recognition and support are very important in preserving traditional arts.

 

His unwavering dedication to his craft for over six decades has earned him numerous accolades, culminating in this national recognition announced on the eve of the country's 75th Republic Day. Many feel the award to Dar will serve as a catalyst for the revival of the craft steeped in the history of  Kashmir and a testament to the resilience of traditions that have withstood the test of time.

 

 

Ghulam engrossed in work

Dar was introduced to a wood carving unit at a young age. Despite initial rejections from craftspersons who were not willing to teach the trade, Ghulam's perseverance eventually led him to a mentor Nooruddin Tikoo, who imparted his knowledge through intricate designs on paper. "I was 10 years old when my father suffered losses in his business and was broke  As he could not pay the fees, I was expelled from school. My maternal uncle took me and my younger brother to a wood carving unit at Sarai Safakadal so that we could learn the craft," Dar, who lives in Sekidafar area of old Srinagar city, said.

 

Although the master craftsman said he did not learn much during the five years at the wood carving unit, the stay there, however, aroused his interest in the art, and he decided that he would learn it to earn his livelihood.