Hidden Gem: The Felted elegance of Kashmiri Namdha Rugs

Renowned for their intricate designs and vibrant colors, Namdha Rugs have a storied history that is deeply intertwined with the culture and artistry of Kashmir since the medieval ages. These unique felted wool carpets are not just decorative pieces but embody the heritage, craftsmanship, and social fabric of the region. These unique felted wool carpets have been crafted for centuries, representing the skill, resilience, and deep-rooted traditions of Kashmiri artisans. Today, at Design Eraya, we are committed to preserving and promoting this extraordinary craft by sourcing from government approved units or home-based, generationally skilled artisans—many of whom are women—and ensuring fair wages for their work.

Skilled Craftsmanship, Sustainability, and Cultural pride.

The history of Namdha rugs in Kashmir can be traced back to the arrival of Mir Syed Ali Hamadani, a revered 14th-century Sufi saint from Persia. Hamadani played a pivotal role in shaping the artistic and cultural landscape of Kashmir. As part of his spiritual mission, he brought with him Persian craftsmen who introduced various art forms, including carpet weaving, papier-mâché, and the technique of Namdha-making. This blending of Persian craftsmanship with local traditions resulted in a unique and distinctly Kashmiri craft, one that combined Persian aesthetics with the natural beauty of the Kashmiri region. Hamadani’s influence was not only spiritual but also deeply practical. He believed in the dignity of manual labor and encouraged the development of Kashmiri crafts, elevating the status of artisans who had long been under appreciated. This led to the flourishing of Namdha-making, with its distinct process of felting wool through pressure and friction rather than traditional carpet weaving techniques. The result was a durable, beautifully designed rug that became synonymous with Kashmiri craftsmanship.

Namdha rugs gained significant prominence in India during the Mughal era. Under the patronage of Emperor Akbar, who had a deep appreciation for fine arts and craftsmanship, Namda rugs flourished. Akbar, known for his love of luxury and intricate design, is believed to have used Namdha rugs in his royal palaces. The rugs were admired not only for their functionality but also for their beauty, often featuring elaborate motifs inspired by Mughal architecture, flora, and fauna. These rugs were favored by the royal courts and aristocracy, and their use became a symbol of status and refinement. The intricate designs, vibrant colors, and soft texture of Namdah rugs made them highly sought after, and their production grew significantly during this period. Other notable figures from history, including Jahangir and Shah Jahan, continued this tradition, promoting Kashmiri arts, including Namdha rugs, in their courts.

The Namdha craft also found favor beyond the Mughal courts, as Raja Gulab Singh of Jammu and Kashmir became a prominent promoter of the region’s crafts during his reign in the 19th century. He encouraged the development of local art forms, recognizing their cultural and economic importance. Namdha rugs were often used in royal ceremonies, diplomatic gifts, and official residences, further solidifying their place in Indian heritage.

The Namdha-making technique is distinct in its use of felted wool, a method believed to have traveled to Kashmir via traders along the ancient Silk Route. Unlike traditional carpet weaving, Namdha rugs are created by matting and compressing wool fibres together using pressure, often with the help of water. This technique produces a dense, durable fabric, ideal for floor coverings and bedding, yet soft and lightweight enough to be used for decorative purposes. Over time, Namdha rugs evolved to reflect not just Kashmiri and Persian influences but also Indian motifs and cultural elements. Traditional designs of embroidery like Aari often depict scenes from nature, with flowers, vines, and birds woven into the fabric, symbolizing the lush landscapes of Kashmir. As the craft spread, it began to incorporate geometric and abstract patterns influenced by various regions across India, blending styles and aesthetics. The motif reflecting the famous ‘Chinar’ tree in Kashmir (globally known as Plantaus Orientalis), abundantly found in Kashmir is also abundantly in use in Kashmir till date.

While Namdha rugs were initially crafted for domestic use, serving as floor coverings and decorative elements in Kashmiri homes, their appeal quickly grew. They became popular among the Indian aristocracy and found their way into the homes of wealthy merchants and influential figures. Their practical use, combined with artistic elegance, made them a staple in Indian households and a symbol of cultural sophistication.

By bringing these rugs into our homes, we are not only preserving a centuries-old tradition but also supporting the artisans who have carried this craft through the ages.

References:

• “Kashmir in Sufi Traditions” by G.M.D Sofi

• “History of Kashmir” by Prithivi Nath Kaul Bamzai

• Compass RAU IAS: Namda Art, Ja