Archive · 31 Jan 2026
Kashmir's Carpet Industry Revives with Record-Breaking Silk Creations
Kashmir is famous for its beautiful handmade silk carpets.
Recently, artisans there made the world's largest silk carpet, which is 72 feet by 40 feet and has over 36 crore knots.
They are now working on an even bigger one, 30 feet by 72 feet, for a buyer in the Gulf.
These carpets take many years to make and show the amazing skill of the weavers.
The industry is also using new technology and designs to attract buyers from around the world.
The government is helping by giving the carpets a special tag to prove they are real.
Even though there are challenges, like high taxes in the US, the industry is growing and getting recognition from important events like the G20 Summit.
Kashmir artisans completed the world's largest handmade silk carpet (72x40 feet, 36 crore knots) in 2024, valued at Rs. 37.5 crore.
A new carpet (30x72 feet, 25 crore knots) is nearing completion, destined for the Gulf, showcasing the industry's revival.
The industry is focusing on scale, rarity, and exquisite craftsmanship to compete globally, with most large commissions coming from the Gulf.
Government initiatives like GI tagging and international exposure programs are helping to stabilize and promote the 600-year-old industry.
Artisans are also innovating with limited-edition designs and bespoke pieces, using digital tools alongside traditional techniques to attract global luxury markets.
- Who
- Artisans in Kashmir, led by master weavers like Habibullah Sheikh and Abdul Gaffar
- What
- Creation of the world's largest handmade silk carpets
- When
- Current project started in 2016, completed in 2024; upcoming project nearing completion
- Where
- Workshops in the Valley's hamlets, particularly in Baramulla district
- Why
- To reposition Kashmir's carpet industry at the top of the global luxury market, showcasing craftsmanship and quality
- Current Largest Carpet
- 72 feet by 40 feet, 36 crore knots, Rs. 37.5 crore
- Upcoming Carpet
- 30 feet by 72 feet, 25 crore knots, destined for the Gulf
- Artisan Count
- 56,699 registered artisans
- Export Value (2022-23)
- ₹357 crore
- GI Tagging
- Introduced in 2022 for authenticity verification
- Key Markets
- Middle East, United States, Australia
- US Tariff Impact
- 52.9% duty on hand-knotted rugs
- International Recognition
- G20 Summit, New Parliament Building, FIFA World Cup