Srinagar, J & K : Kashmir’s centuries old Kani weaving tradition has received a prestigious national recognition with two artisans from Budgam district being honoured with the National Handloom Award 2025.

Manzoor Ahmad Hajam and Fayaz Ahmad Wani, both hailing from Kanihama in Magam area of Budgam, were presented the award by President Droupadi Murmu during the National Handloom Day celebrations held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre in New Delhi on Friday.

The two artisans were recognised in the weaving category for their exceptional craftsmanship in producing the traditional Chanddar Kani shawl, an intricate form of Kashmiri handloom known for its elaborate patterns, painstaking workmanship and cultural significance.

Their recognition places Kashmir’s distinctive weaving heritage among the finest traditional textile crafts being celebrated at the national level.

The National Handloom Awards are among the country’s premier recognitions for excellence, innovation and contribution to the handloom sector.

A total of 22 awardees were honoured during this year’s celebrations, including recipients of the Sant Kabir Handloom Awards and National Handloom Awards. The awardees represented a wide range of India’s traditional weaving traditions from different regions.

The recognition of the two Budgam weavers is particularly significant for Kashmir, where Kani weaving has been passed down through generations and continues to serve as an important part of the region’s cultural and artistic identity.

The honour also highlights the skill and dedication of artisans who continue to preserve traditional weaving techniques despite changing market conditions and the growing availability of machine-made alternatives.

The Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir, congratulated the two awardees and described the recognition as a proud moment for the region’s rich handloom heritage.

The national honour is expected to further highlight the distinctive Kani craft of Kashmir and encourage greater appreciation for the master craftsmanship involved in creating its intricate shawls.

Report By – Mudasir Maqbool