Kashmir Artisans: The story unfolding in Kashmir is one of patience, precision, and extraordinary human dedication. Over nearly a decade, a group of highly skilled artisans has been quietly working on a project that reflects not only technical excellence but also the enduring cultural heritage of the region. Their achievement is the creation of the world’s second-largest handmade silk carpet, an undertaking that stands as a testament to traditional craftsmanship surviving in a modern, fast-paced world.
The handmade silk carpet measures an astonishing 30 feet by 72 feet, covering a total area of 2,160 square feet. To put this into perspective, the carpet alone occupies a space comparable to eight marlas of land. Such dimensions make it one of the most ambitious carpet-weaving projects ever attempted in the region. The scale of the carpet required not only artistic skill but also careful planning, engineering support, and long-term commitment from everyone involved.
Work on this massive carpet began in February 2015 and has continued without interruption for years. Eighteen master artisans have been engaged in the weaving process, each bringing decades of experience to the loom. These craftsmen work close to ten hours a day, carefully tying each knot by hand. The process is slow, repetitive, and physically demanding, yet it is precisely this painstaking approach that gives handmade silk carpets their unmatched quality and durability.
Such an enormous carpet could not be woven on a conventional loom. Engineers spent nearly six weeks designing and constructing a special loom capable of handling the size and increasing weight of the silk carpet. As the carpet grows heavier week after week, the loom is subjected to constant stress. To prevent any structural risk, experts conduct weekly inspections to ensure that the loom remains stable and functions smoothly throughout the weaving process.
Once completed, the carpet is expected to contain more than 200 million hand-tied knots. This staggering number highlights the extreme complexity of the design and the exceptional skill required to execute it flawlessly. Each knot is tied individually, maintaining uniform tension and alignment to preserve the intricate patterns that Kashmiri carpets are known for worldwide.
The finished carpet is estimated to weigh around one ton. However, some of this weight will be reduced during the final stages, which include cleaning and washing. These finishing processes are essential to enhance the shine of the silk, define the patterns more clearly, and ensure the carpet meets international quality standards. After completion, the carpet is scheduled to be shipped to a Gulf country, where it is expected to attract significant attention from collectors and luxury buyers.
This monumental project is more than an artistic achievement; it is a powerful promotional milestone for Kashmir’s carpet, handicraft, and handloom industry. By reaching international markets, particularly in Gulf countries, the project helps reinforce the global reputation of Kashmiri silk carpets. It also opens doors for increased demand, better pricing, and broader recognition of traditional weaving techniques.
Beyond global visibility, the project plays a crucial role in uplifting local artisans and craftsmen. Large-scale international orders provide sustained employment, encourage younger generations to learn the craft, and help preserve skills that might otherwise fade away. The success of such projects strengthens the local economy and supports entire communities dependent on traditional handicrafts.
This is not the first time Kashmiri weavers have achieved something extraordinary. In 2024, artisans from the Valley completed Asia’s largest handmade silk carpet, measuring 72 feet by 40 feet and covering nearly half a kanal of land. That project took nine years to complete and involved 24 master artisans who collectively wove approximately 365 million knots. Together, these achievements position Kashmir as a global leader in handmade silk carpet production.
According to those associated with the project, the carpet is expected to be completed within the next year. Depending on final detailing and finishing, completion is projected by the end of this year or by March 2027. Once finished, it will stand not only as a commercial product but also as a cultural artifact representing centuries of weaving tradition.
Kashmiri carpets are admired across the world for their intricate patterns, fine workmanship, and distinctive identity. Projects of this scale reinforce the value of human skill over automation and highlight the importance of preserving heritage crafts. The world’s second-largest handmade silk carpet is not just woven silk; it is woven history, patience, and pride.
