In pictures: One of Srinagar’s oldest craftsmen tells us of the art of carving wood

He started carving when he was all of 10, and now as a septuagenarian, Ghulam Nabi Dar is keeping the tradition alive. A resident of Srinagar, he carves wood pieces to make impeccable-intricate designs on them. While local residents -- and people who have been to the city and met him personally -- are aware of Dar's craft, he is enjoying a sudden resurgence in this popularity, ever since his pictures went viral on social media recently. Indianexpress.com reached out to the celebrated craftsman and had a quick chat with him. Read on to find out more. (Express photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

Dar says he has been carving wood pieces to make ornate objects for more than five decades now. "Besides myself, I have many people working with me, some of whom have learned the craft, mastered it, and now are comfortably making a living on their own. I had a brother who learnt from me; he is no longer alive. But my other brother and his son work with me." (Express photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

Dar, essentially, is a master of the art of walnut wood carving in the Valley, where wood carving is understood to be one of the best-known cottage industries. Speaking from his little workshop at his house, Dar told this outlet that he is proud of the work that he continues to do, for it is "rare". "We never repeat our designs. If, for instance, we carve a particular design on a bed, we will think of a fresh and unique one for another bed." (Express photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

The craftsman said he thinks of different designs to be used on different objects. "We work on boxes, wall hangings, dining tables, beds, etc." (Express photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

He loves what he does and says he does it with utmost dedication. A report in Rising Kashmir quoted Dar: "I was so fascinated about this art that people mistook me as a lunatic. I used to copy the design from finished products and try it at home on a plank of raw wood." (Express photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

The work is not easy, and Dar is growing old. Even though he still carves wooden objects, he is not as agile as he used to be. So, he has people working with him. "I don't just teach them for the sake of it. I genuinely want people to understand and love the craft like I do. I want them to excel. I keep bouncing ideas and designs." (Express photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

A craftsman at work. (Express photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

"I am not sure if I will be around for long, which is why I want to teach as many people as I can. I don't want to keep all this beauty, the knowledge of this craft, hidden from the world." (Express photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

The Rising Kashmir report also mentioned that in his career, Dar has travelled to many countries that include Iraq, Germany and Thailand. In 1995, he was awarded a national award. And before that, in 1984, Dar was also honored with a state award. (Express photo by Shuaib Masoodi)

Dar said he is appreciating the fact that people are showing interest in his work. But he also wants all craftsmen to enjoy the popularity. "Credit be given where it is due. I am always welcoming of people interested in learning wood-carving. I have no qualms teaching them," he told indianexpress.com. (Express photo by Shuaib Masoodi)