Opinion | Role of Kashmiri women in reviving traditional Arts and challenging gender stereotypes

“Without loud voices or big stages, Kashmiri women have rewritten their story. With thread, brush, and courage, they are keeping traditions alive and shaping a brighter tomorrow”

Kashmir is a place full of traditions and beautiful arts yet in the shadow of modernization much of this cultural heritage has faced slow erosion. In this difficult and changing situation, Kashmiri women have shown amazing strength and brought powerful change. They are not just weaving Pashmina and paper Mache, but also shaping identity, pride, and the fight for women’s freedom. For a long time, people saw Kashmiri women mainly as caretakers of their homes and traditions. They looked after families and followed customs, but were often left out of art, public life, and important roles in society.

But today, the story has changed. Kashmiri women are not just keeping old traditions alive, they are giving them new meaning and fresh energy. At the same time, they are breaking old gender rules with calm but strong courage. In traditional crafts like sewing, embroidery, weaving and paper Mache, women have stepped out of the private, home-based work and are now making their mark in the world.

They are now recognized as experts, artists, business owners, designers, and storytellers. Farhana Rashid a young educated girl was burned in a gas explosion while making tea, but she didn’t give up. She worked hard on craft and became an entrepreneur. Her work was recognized, and she started selling it worldwide. She also employed other women, giving them a chance to work and grow. She never lost hope and achieved international success. Through working together in groups, women artisans have taken charge of Kashmir’s artistic traditions. They have made sure that these arts are not just part of history but continue to grow and show the pride of their culture.

In the past, art and craft in Kashmir were mostly controlled by men, and women’s work was often done without being noticed. But today, Kashmiri women are changing that. They are putting their names on their creations, taking part in exhibitions in India and around the world, and using art to speak up. By doing this, they are breaking the idea that women should be quiet and showing that they have a strong role in shaping their identity and making a difference in society. This revival didn’t happen by chance. It came from a real need and the strong will of women.

As Kashmir went through difficult times, many men were busy with survival struggles, leaving gaps that women stepped in to fill. Art became more than just a craft, it became a way to get by, a source of hope, and a place of comfort. Women-led projects in both villages and cities are now giving women financial independence, something that was rare before. This has changed how society sees women, from being dependents to being important contributors and leaders. Today, Kashmiri women artists, from calligraphy experts to clay artists to digital illustrators, are mixing traditional designs with modern techniques, connecting the past with the future. They show that you don’t have to choose between tradition and modernity. Instead, they represent a new way of growing and evolving. Their work proves that it’s possible to respect our history without being held back by it, and that real innovation, rooted in authenticity, has the power to heal and create something new.

The revival of traditional arts by women is very personal. It’s about taking back their history and culture in a world that often forgets it. It shows that beauty, memories, and creativity are ways to resist, especially in a place often known for conflict. Every embroidered shawl and every carved wood piece carries the spirit of many women who refuse to let their culture fade or their voices be ignored. Their journey hasn’t been easy. They face many challenges, like not having enough resources, pressure from society, no support from institutions, and the constant political struggles. But despite all these challenges, the success of Kashmiri women shines even brighter. They have shown that strength is not about being tough, but about staying determined and pushing forward. With grace, they have redefined empowerment, not by turning away from their roots, but by holding onto them even more. The world needs to notice and appreciate the quiet revolution led by Kashmiri women. They are not just keeping culture alive—they are shaping a future that includes everyone. For them, tradition is a place of freedom and respect.

The needle, loom and brush are not just tools; they are ways to bring about change. Through their art, Kashmiri women have shown us an important lesson even in the toughest times, new growth can still happen, quietly, firmly, and beautifully.

Nazira Ahad is an artist and promoter of Kashmiri Art and skill.

Naziraahad302@gmail.com