BUDGAM, Aug 17: Deputy Commissioner Budgam Athar Aamir Khan on Monday felicitated renowned Kani artisans Fayaz Ahmad Wani and his student Manzoor Ahmad Hajam for receiving the National Handloom Award 2025 from President Droupadi Murmu.
The award was conferred on the duo in New Delhi on August 7 in the weaving category for their Chanddar Kani Shawl, a work that showcases Kashmir’s traditional weaving heritage and craftsmanship.
Felicitating the awardees during the Independence Day function at Sports Stadium Budgam, the Deputy Commissioner described the honour as a proud moment for Budgam and Jammu and Kashmir and a recognition of Kashmir’s rich handloom legacy.
He praised the artisans for reviving a nearly 400-year-old Kani design through traditional weaving techniques. The award-winning shawl reportedly took more than 15 months to complete.
Athar lauded Fayaz Ahmad Wani for preserving the traditional craft and passing on the skill to younger generations. He noted that Wani has trained more than 50 people in Kani weaving, helping sustain the craft while creating livelihood opportunities.
The Deputy Commissioner also commended Manzoor Ahmad Hajam, who has worked with his mentor’s weaving unit for the past 25 years, describing their achievement as an example of the Guru-Shishya tradition that has helped preserve Kashmir’s indigenous crafts.
He stressed the need to encourage youth participation in Kani weaving and other traditional crafts, saying such skills offer opportunities for livelihood, entrepreneurship and cultural preservation.
Athar said national recognition for local artisans would provide fresh impetus to efforts aimed at safeguarding Kashmir’s artistic traditions and ensuring their continuity for future generations.
The District Administration Budgam reiterated its commitment to supporting artisans, weavers and craftsmen and promoting local handloom and handicraft sectors.
