Namda

A felted rug that transforms the chill of Kashmiri winters into warmth and artistry, Namda is a traditional Indian craft deeply rooted in the culture of the Kashmir Valley. Namda refers to non-woven rugs made by felting sheep’s wool, resulting in dense, warm floor coverings often adorned with vibrant aari embroidery. In Kashmir, these rugs are essential household items, valued for their insulation and decorative appeal, and are commonly found in homes across Srinagar, Budgam, Anantnag, and Baramulla.

Namda craft in Kashmir is believed to have arrived from Central Asia or Persia, possibly as early as the 11th century, with some accounts linking its spread to the Mughal era. Historical records mention that a craftsman named Nubi created a felted covering for Emperor Akbar’s horse, earning royal favor and helping the craft flourish in the region. Another narrative attributes its introduction to the Iranian Sufi saint Shah-e-Hamdan, who brought the technique to Kashmir along with his followers. Over centuries, Namda-making became embedded in Kashmiri culture, practiced primarily by Muslim artisan families and passed down through generations.

The Namda process begins with carding and cleaning coarse sheep’s wool, sometimes mixed with cotton for a lighter base. Artisans layer the wool on a jute or burlap mat, sprinkle it with soapy water, and compress it with a wooden tool called a pinjra. The mat is rolled and kneaded repeatedly to fuse the fibers into a dense sheet. The plain Namda is sun-dried and then embellished with intricate aari embroidery, featuring motifs inspired by local flora such as the chinar tree, cherry blossoms, and lotus. Each rug is unique, with vibrant colors and detailed patterns that showcase the artisan’s skill.

Namda’s unique qualities include its dense, insulating texture and adaptability to both utilitarian and decorative uses. The felted structure makes it durable and warm, ideal for Kashmir’s cold climate. Kashmiri Namdas stand out for their colorful, detailed embroidery, often executed with a hooked needle in the aari style, and their motifs reflect the region’s natural beauty. Despite challenges, Namda continues to attract attention in urban and international markets for its craftsmanship and cultural significance.

Photo Courtesy: Kashmir Box | Waseem Andrabi/Hindustan Times