The Burzahom archaeological site in #Kashmir gave evidence that pottery was made in the valley as early as 3,000 BC. The craft, which was later patronised mostly by #KashmiriPandits who considered clay sacred, began to decline after their migration in 1989. Now, #SaimaShafi, a 32-year-old civil engineer in the Jammu and Kashmir Public Works Department, is trying to revive the clay craft. This has earned her the sobriquet of #KralKoor or potter girl.
#Pottery has been traditionally considered the domain of men of the #Kumhar community in the #valley. That’s what led to opposition from people when Shafi decided to practice pottery. “There is both gender and caste involved here. I am trying to break this barrier as clay has been therapeutic for me,” says Shafi, who has been a victim of domestic violence.
Since clay helped her come out of the depression she suffered due to abuse, she is keen to promote the craft for all, especially women with mental health issues and those who are facing violence. “I have always loved clay artefacts and toys since childhood,” says Shafi, who went to Bengaluru to learn pottery-making as there aren’t many pottery teachers in the valley now.
She has set up her workshop in uptown Batmaloo, where she makes pottery items and is encouraging others to join her attempts to revive the centuries-old tradition of using earthen utensils in Kashmiri kitchens. “I am sure very soon, many more will join me,” she says.
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