The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has selected Srinagar among 49 cities as part of the Creative Cities Network under the Crafts and Folk Arts category.
“It is a proud moment for all of us. The process of nomination of Srinagar under the UNESCO ‘Creative City Network’ was funded under the Jhelum Tawi Flood Recovery Project funded by the World Bank. It is the historical crafts and arts of the city. is recognized,” said Chief Executive Officer, Jhelum Tawi Flood Recovery Project (JTFRP), Abid Rashid Shah.
The inclusion is likely to pave the way for the city to represent its handicrafts on the global stage through UNESCO. “This is a major recognition for Jammu and Kashmir,” Dr Shah said.
The network includes folk arts, media, film, literature, design, culinary arts and media arts. Srinagar was one of the more cities in India to compete for the coveted recognition this year. The dossier for its nomination was first filed in 2019 and then in 2021.
Only Jaipur (Crafts and Folk Arts) in 2015, Varanasi and Chennai (Creative City of Music) in 2015 and 2017 respectively have so far been recognized as members of the UCCN for Creative Cities.
“Credit must go to JTFRP and the Department of Industries and concerned departments for taking up the task positively. Consultants were hired and tasked to meet all the requirements,” said Iftikhar Hakim, director, technical, planning and coordination, JTFRP.
Industry director Mahmood Ahmad Shah said that Srinagar has made it to the elite list. “This nomination is a global recognition for the rich craft heritage of Srinagar,” said Mr. Shah said.
In a tweet, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “Glad that beautiful Srinagar has joined the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) with a special mention of crafts and folk arts. It is a fitting recognition for the vibrant cultural ethos of Srinagar.” Greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.”
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