SRINAGAR: For many years, craftsman Mohammad Iqbal Shah has dedicated his life to creating exquisite Christmas decorations and other festive items, a tradition passed down through generations. His workshop, nestled in the bustling Khanyar neighborhood of Srinagar, produces stunning pieces made from papier mache—an art form that traces its roots back to ancient China and was brought to Kashmir by artisans from Central Asia in the 15th century.

Shah and his team meticulously transform soaked paper into pulp and mix it with flour and glue to craft beautiful ornaments like balls, bells, stars, and Santa Claus figurines. These creations, typically dried in the sun, symbolize not only the holiday spirit but also the legacy of Kashmiri craftsmanship. However, Shah's once-thriving business is now facing a dramatic downturn. "We used to make over 100,000 pieces every year. This year, I believe production has dropped by almost 50 percent due to low demand in the international market," he lamented.

The dip in demand can be largely attributed to ongoing global conflicts, particularly the Russia-Ukraine war and the recent escalation of violence in the Middle East stemming from the Israel-Hamas conflict. Major exporters have reported that clients are hesitant to purchase in bulk, concerned about economic uncertainties and the changing spending habits of consumers during tumultuous times.

Ubaid Ali, a manufacturer and exporter, echoed these sentiments, saying, "Our customers in Europe, the Middle East, and America are afraid of importing our products. They worry about the future and prefer to save money rather than spend it." The ripple effects of these conflicts have not only diminished the demand for festive goods but have also drawn a stark line against the already struggling tourism sector in Kashmir.

The craft of papier mache has historically thrived on international demand, especially during festive seasons like Christmas and Easter, where shipments of handcrafted items could reach millions. As the global papier mache industry is estimated to be worth around $30 billion annually, the losses experienced by artisans like Shah and Ali could have far-reaching implications for the sustainability of this age-old craft.

Exacerbating the situation are the several recent setbacks in Kashmir, including the devastating floods of 2014, the Indian government's controversial revocation of Jammu and Kashmir's partial autonomy in 2019, and the global COVID-19 pandemic that disrupted tourism everywhere. These events have created a precarious landscape for artisans trying to maintain their traditions and livelihoods.

In a bid to adapt, some manufacturers are experimenting with new product lines to draw attention and diversify their offerings. However, for artisans focused on traditional crafts, such as Shah, the path forward remains uncertain. All they can do is hope for peace—a return to stability that would not only breathe new life into their businesses but also allow people to fully celebrate the festive moments that have become increasingly elusive.

As the holiday season approaches, the question remains: Will the beauty of Kashmir's handcrafted items find a way to shine through the shadows of conflict? The answer lies not just in the hands of the artisans but in the hearts of consumers around the world who cherish these unique creations.