Mission - Passion to Revive - The Kashmir Company, Inc.

Mission - Passion to Revive

The past 20 years has been turbulent for Kashmir and its people and a resultant fall in patronage from tourists and visitors has forced Kashmir craftsmen to find alternate means of livelihood. The highly desired artistry of Kashmir craftsmen is at a decisive point in history. Century old traditional skills, dating back to 15th and 16th century, that have been preserved through generations may be lost if the local indigenous art in Kashmir does not find patronage.

We at Kashmir Company are passionate about reviving Kashmir indigenous art, not just for our generation but importantly for future generations to come. By simply buying direct from Kashmir artisans handcrafted items that are expensive for the local population to support, we will be providing patronage to traditional skills that are at the brink. Importantly this would provide an opportunity for income that currently is limited or does not exist for the artisans.

Following is how we foresee we will achieve results:

* Promote Kashmiri hand-crafted indigenously created high quality products ONLY
* Identify and ‘adopt’ master craftsmen and artists who are considered experts in traditional skills of Kashmiri embroidery and carpet weaving
* Source Kashmir Company products directly from the artisans
* Ensure a sustainable model such that artisans can start relying on their traditional skills for a livelihood
* Provide micro-loans to ‘deserving’ artisans to assist them in getting setup
* Emulate the model across Kashmir potentially through local co-operatives and supporting fair trade.

Much has been lost in the past 20 years, but there is still enough passion, skill and talent in Kashmir for us to believe that with adequate support, patronage and a sustainable plan that encourages organic growth we will be able to accomplish a revival that will last through generations.

We thank you for your interest.

The Kashmir Company