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Gulam Ahmed

"Hello, my name is Gulam Ahmed and I was born and brought up in Kashmir. I had a normal childhood. I never got the chance to study, but I feel life itself is a school and teaches you a lot. I inherited the art of chain stitch from my father, who has been working in the field for more than five decades now.

"My work is an expression of my thoughts. My designs are inspired by our ancient heritage and express the beauty of the flora and fauna of my home state, Kashmir. For crafting chain stitch rugs, we first trace the design on a cotton base and then do the chain stitch embroidery by using a special kind of needle called an aari in Kashmir. My father has been my constant source of inspiration. And it is my constant effort to create something new.

"I work with some ten other people and together we create fascinating designs. Our hard work is rewarded when people appreciate our designs. And whatever success or accolade I achieve, it is not mine alone for this a is team effort. Our rugs have been exhibited in different parts of world.

"We received the Best Chain Stitch Rug Award at the 2005 Carpet Expo in New Delhi. My father and I have taught this art to many people who were keen to learn it, including the people who collaborate with us.

"Working with Novica is a great feeling. I think it is a very good platform that encourages artists like me to give our best every time. Novica has given us a chance to draw close to rest of the world, which otherwise would not have been possible. For an artist, the best reward is when people appreciate our art. When you select our designs, you not only provide us our livelihood but also help preserve this 300-year-old art."