Srinagar, Oct 15 (JKNS): Master artisan Rafiq Ahmed Sofi of Eidgah, Srinagar, has brought laurels to Jammu and Kashmir by winning the National Award 2025 in the Hand-Knotted Carpet category, conferred by the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.
The Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, has congratulated Sofi on the achievement, describing it as recognition of his exceptional craftsmanship and contribution to the traditional art of hand-knotted carpet weaving.
According to a statement issued by the department, as per news agency JKNS, Sofi is the sole awardee from Jammu and Kashmir in this category for 2025. He received the honour for a carpet featuring intricate floral motifs, traditional architectural patterns and calligraphic elements.
The department said the achievement has brought recognition to Kashmir’s handicrafts and handloom sector at the national level and is expected to provide further impetus to the Valley’s carpet industry.
Kashmir’s hand-knotted carpets represent a centuries-old craft tradition known for fine knotting techniques, distinctive designs and the use of taleem, a traditional coded system used by weavers. The craft received Geographical Indication (GI) registration in 2016.
The department said Sofi’s recognition reaffirms the continued excellence and relevance of Kashmir’s traditional carpet-weaving heritage. It also encouraged artisans across the region to draw inspiration from his achievement and maintain the quality and artistry associated with Kashmiri handicrafts.
A formal award ceremony is scheduled to be held in December 2026, where Sofi will be felicitated along with other awardees. (JKNS)
