In Srinagar, a 19-year-old young boy, Fazil Jan, is not just preserving but reinvigorating the century-old tradition of Karakuli (Karakul) craftsmanship, a craft passed down through generations in his family.
Karakuli caps have been worn by Kashmiri people for centuries and has become a part of the culture and identity of the locals.
Taking hold of his family’s business, Fazil has blended tradition with innovation, captivating a crowd of diverse clients including politicians like Ghulam Nabi Azad and Rahul Gandhi, as well as ministers and MLAs from Bangalore and Kashmir.
Stepping into the shoes of his great grandfather, Fazil embraced the responsibility of running the iconic Karakuli shop in Srinagar after the passing of his grandfather in 2018.
Reflecting on his journey, he reminisces, “As a child, I would often accompany my grandfather to the shop, promising him that I would continue his legacy.” True to his word, Fazil not only managed the transition but injected a fresh breath of modernity into the traditional craft.
Recalling his encounter with political figures, Fazil shares, “At 16, I was invited to customize caps for Ghulam Nabi Azad, who has since become a regular customer.” Such endorsements have further cemented Fazil’s reputation as a craftsman par excellence.
In a region where conventional career paths often dominate, Fazil stands as a beacon of entrepreneurship, advocating for self-reliance. “Why be a slave to employment when you can chart your own course?” he asserts, inspiring fellow youth to embrace their heritage and entrepreneurial spirit.
With each intricately woven and designed cap, Fazil not only honors his family’s legacy but also propels it into a promising future, symbolizing the spirit of innovation in Kashmir’s rich tapestry of tradition.