'Never expected such recognition', Kashmir artisans thank PM Modi for mention in 'Mann Ki Baat'

Srinagar, July 26 (AHN) After Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the revival of Kashmir's traditional 'Vaghu' mat in the latest episode of Mann Ki Baat, local artisans expressed gratitude, stating they had never imagined their work would receive such national recognition.

Speaking to AHN, Kashmiri artisan Tanzila Hussain said, "First of all, I would like to thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi for considering us worthy of being mentioned in his Mann Ki Baat programme. I have been practising this craft for the past two to three years, while my elders have been associated with it for much longer."

Another artisan, Ghulam Hussain, said, "I am very happy today. I never imagined that our work would receive such recognition. Our family has been associated with the Vaghu craft for generations, and we have worked hard to preserve this traditional art despite many challenges."

Earlier in the day, PM Modi highlighted the revival of Kashmir's traditional 'Vaghu' mat, describing the centuries-old, eco-friendly craft as a unique cultural symbol of the Valley and hailing the efforts taken to revive it.

Addressing the 136th episode of his monthly radio programme, 'Mann Ki Baat', the Prime Minister said, "When one possesses both talent and the passion to achieve something, every path becomes easy. A glimpse of that is evident in the efforts currently being made regarding Kashmir's traditional 'Vaghu' mat."

He noted that the tradition of making this mat dates back many years and is crafted out of reeds and paddy straw. He explained that the process starts with harvesting grass and reeds from the marshy regions of Kashmir. After drying the materials in the sun and sorting them, the hand-weaving process begins.

PM Modi said that it takes approximately four days for two artisans to complete a single mat.

"This mat is both unique and eco-friendly. A major feature is that it provides coolness in the summer and warmth in the winter. While it used to be found in every Kashmiri household, its usage had declined over the last few years," he said.

The Prime Minister commended a father-daughter team from Srinagar for their commitment to reviving this traditional craft.

"Amidst that, Ghulam Hussain ji from Srinagar and his daughter, Tanzila ji, took a pledge. Both dedicated themselves to reviving the tradition of the 'Vaghu' craft. Ghulam Hussain ji comes from a very humble background. He faced numerous challenges in this endeavour. However, his resolve to preserve 'Vaghu' remained unflinching. And within no time, many people began joining this initiative," he said.

He added that Ghulam Hussain "significantly advanced this craft" and also received local government support for his mission.

"Today, 'Vaghu' is rapidly gaining popularity and reaching other parts of the country. I am immensely proud of everyone associated with this effort. Today, we are all emphasising local products; we are moving forward with the mantra of 'Vocal for Local'. In this context, do consider making Kashmir's 'Vaghu' a part of your home as well," PM Modi added.