Srinagar, May 12: In a quiet corner of Srinagar, a young postgraduate student is striving to keep alive a fading Kashmiri craft as modern alternatives steadily replace traditional handmade products.

Tanzeela has taken up her late father’s traditional waggu weaving craft, balancing her academic studies with long hours of handwork to preserve a family legacy rooted in Kashmir’s cultural heritage.
Waggu, a traditional mat woven from dried reeds, was once a common feature in Kashmiri households. Known for its eco-friendly nature and cultural value, the craft has seen a sharp decline in recent years as plastic and machine-made alternatives have taken over the market. Reduced demand has forced many artisans to abandon the practice in search of other livelihoods.
Despite these challenges, Tanzeela remains committed to continuing the work started by her father decades ago. She currently pursues her Master’s degree while dedicating her evenings and weekends to weaving waggus using traditional methods passed down through generations.
“My father devoted his life to this craft. After his passing, I felt it was my responsibility to continue the tradition,” she said. “Even though its use has declined, there are still people who value handmade traditional items.”
The process of making waggu is labor-intensive and requires patience and skill. From preparing dried reeds to weaving intricate patterns by hand, each piece takes several days to complete. Tanzeela says learning the craft was not easy, but years of observing her father helped her master the technique.
“In the beginning, it was difficult to balance studies and weaving, but I gradually adjusted. I usually work after classes and on weekends,” she added.
While the market for traditional mats has shrunk significantly, Tanzeela continues to receive occasional orders from customers who appreciate authentic Kashmiri handicrafts. Some use them for traditional purposes, while others purchase them as decorative cultural items.
Locals say young artisans like Tanzeela are playing an important role in preserving Kashmir’s artistic heritage. They believe such crafts represent not only skilled workmanship but also the cultural identity and history of the region.