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The Kashmiri willow bat industry, rooted in centuries-old craftsmanship and tradition, faces challenges in the 21st century. Once renowned for crafting hockey sticks, it shifted to cricket bat production post-partition, connecting with Jalandhar and embracing the region's abundant willow wood. Kashmir's unique willow, Salix Alba Caerulea, found global recognition for cricket bats. However, the industry faces threats like raw material scarcity, illegal trading, and competition from other regions. Experts call for sustainable cultivation and government support to safeguard this vital Kashmiri tradition and economic resource. The industry's reputation is on the rise, with Kashmiri willow bats being used by international cricketers, sparking hope for its continued success. ....
Abdul Rehman Kumhar, a former master craftsman of the Qaaleen Baafi art, reflects on the decline of his once-thriving craft in Bacchroo village, Kulgam. The story illustrates his transformation from a celebrated artisan to a labourer, emblematic of a fading tradition. Governmental support waned, and market dynamics turned against them, leaving the community in despair. Kumhar's hopes for a revival seem bleak, and the art, like his dreams, faces a slow decline. His family now grapples with the hardships of their changed circumstances, as the legacy of this once-proud craft fades into obscurity. ....