In Kashmir, the coppersmiths (Thanthur) have been in the trade for decades but now the business is struggling to survive due to machine-made items which is not only damaging the traditional craft of Kashmir but also snatching the livelihood from a number of artisans.

Every Kashmiri kitchen has a line of decorated copper utensils locally known as ‘traam’. The people in Kashmir from decades gift each other copper utensils, be it the occasion of marriage when the bride gifts the copper utensils to her in-laws or other moments of happiness. The process of making copper or brassware goes through many artisans. Initially, a coppersmith beats the raw metal into soft objects and while he finishes his work the further process of making copper utensils and showpieces then goes to a calligraphic artist (Naaqash) who carves the pattern and designs of that copper object.
Recently, the Kashmir copper association led by President Farooq Ahmad Wani ’ demanded a ban on machine-made copper items and pressed for action against those who are making copper utensils on machines, which they described as defaming the centuries-old copper handicraft art. The Shah-Re-Khaas Traders and Chambers led by Chairman Bashir Ahmad Kanu listened the grievance of the Kashmir copper association and assured every possible help to solve their issue to revive the handmade Copper Craftship again in Kashmir valley which they are struggling for a decades.
The Kashmir Coppers Association and Shah-Re-Khaas Traders and Chambers urged the authorities to look into the matter and also requested the police to take action against those who are involved in its manufacture and trade.