The best of Jammu and Kashmir’s age-old art and craft in India is taken by FIL Industries Private Limited, Hands of Gold to connoisseurs across the world; contributing to the livelihood of hundreds of local artisans and their families striving to keep alive the art passed down by their ancestors.
Jammu and Kashmir, the land of the gifted and the creative, carries centuries’ worth of handmade, edibles, and art admired and craved by connoisseurs with discerning tastes from around the world. These globally renowned art forms and handmade items have been perfected over time by artisans or kaarigars who now fear seeing their family heirloom get lost in the time of machine-made articles and lifestyles.
Hands of Gold, an initiative by FIL Industries Private Limited seeks to steadily work to expand the kaarigar’s outreach in the world by building an exclusive supply chain for admirers who seek quality, purity and purpose in all that they purchase.
Housed at Skyview by Empyrean at Sanget, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, the store unites the craftsmanship of local artists, organic products, and a blend of contemporary and traditional designs.
The brand also maintains an active presence on social media platforms, regularly updating followers with the latest product releases, and stories from the local artisans.
Some popular products, meticulously crafted to perfection by local artisans, are:
Maizah
This apparel brand specialises in ancient ‘tilla’ and ‘aari’ embroidery. Tilla embroidery is done using threads made of silver and gold and Aari embroidery, introduced in the 12th century by Persians, brings intricate patterns, flawless designs, and gorgeous colours to life. Every thread and stitch reflects the skilled artistry and expert craftsmanship of local artisans who spend days perfecting each piece.
Paper Mache
Introduced to the Kashmir Valley by the esteemed Persian mystic Mir Syed Ali Hamdani and his team of artisans, the craft of Paper Mache has been handed down through generations like a precious heirloom. The art of Paper Mache mirrors the meaning of Merak, which is to do something with such creativity and love that one leaves a part of oneself in it. This stands true for each kaarigar who dives deep into his craft at dawn, day after day, creating objects that can be decorated or used for different purposes.
Edibles by Hands of Gold
The company partners with local beekeepers to capture organic and pure honey with health-boosting properties, adding a sweet, wholesome touch to its product line.
Meanwhile, handpicked at dawn, the most fragrant roses are transformed by artisans into Gulkand, a luxurious spring rose petal preserve that Hands of Gold with therapeutic benefits. The brand also handpicks some of the finest saffron meticulously, infusing its offerings with an aromatic richness that is impossible to replicate.
By shipping authentic ‘Made in Kashmir’ products to different customers from different countries globally, Hands of Gold has elevated the quality of life for artisans and craftsmen in the region of Jammu and Kashmir. Many families now have employment opportunities, contributing not only to the region’s economic growth but also directly benefiting the local community.
Read more: Latest
