Kashmir Shawl: Industry, Trade And The State In A Historical Perspective (1600-1750 C.E.)

Abstract

The shawl industry in Kashmir is of remote antiquity. The industry was mainly dependent on the wool (pashm) chiefly imported from Ladakh and also from other surrounding regions. It was unrivalled for its peculiar texture, lightness, warmth, and softness. The shawl trade was much important for the economies of various countries (i.e., Kashmir, Ladakh, Yarkand, Tibet, etc.,) who were directly or indirectly involved in it. It was the main item in the export trade of Kashmir and this industry generated chief means of income for the people. The present work here is intended to study the shawl industry, shawl as a commodity of trade and the people who were directly or indirectly involved in this industry. Also an attempt has been made to examine the state approach towards the shawl industry of Kashmir during the period under study.