In the serene neighborhood of Narwara Eidgah, Srinagar, a heartwarming transformation is taking place. Me & K, a private enterprise founded by Syed Mujtaba Qadri in 2021, is empowering Kashmiri women by introducing a modern table-top charkha. This foot-operated spinning wheel has breathed new life into the age-old art of yarn spinning, enabling women to earn a sustainable living and find economic independence without leaving their homes.
Reviving the art of spinning
For centuries, Kashmiri women have been engaged in spinning pashmina and silk yarns to hand-weave the exquisite Kashmiri pashmina shawls and stoles. However, due to various challenges, including political instability and the pandemic, this traditional craft saw a decline. Me & K’s initiative of providing free modern charkhas to at least 300 women has rejuvenated the practice and restored hope in the hearts of these women.
Empowering women at home
The introduction of the modern table-top charkha has proven to be a game-changer for many Kashmiri women, especially those who prefer to work from home. This foot-operated charkha offers convenience and efficiency, allowing women to spin fine threads with ease. Lubna Zehra, one of the beneficiaries, expressed her joy in being able to earn a livelihood within the comfort of her home. Working on the charkha not only brought financial stability but also adhered to the values of modesty in her culture.
Training and support
Me & K not only provided free charkhas but also trained the women in their use. The modern charkha placed on tables eliminated the need for sitting on the floor, making spinning a comfortable experience. The company also offered raw materials to these women, who spun pashmina and silk yarns, and then bought the yarn from them. As a result, the company became self-sufficient in the required raw material for their shawls, and the women gained the freedom to sell their yarn to other interested parties if they wished.
Thriving with independence
The impact of this initiative has been remarkable. With the modern charkha, women have witnessed a significant increase in their productivity and efficiency. Yasmeena Lateef, who switched from a traditional charkha to the modern one, now earns as much as Rs 5,000 a month. This newfound financial independence has brought a sense of pride and accomplishment to many like her.
A beacon of hope
Fahmeeda Akhtar, who joined Me & K during the pandemic when she was in dire need of employment, found solace and stability in her new workplace. The company has become like a second home to her, providing both financial support and personal growth.
Preserving tradition
As the women spin yarn on the ground floor, the first floor of the wooden building witnesses Kashmiri men embroidering intricate motifs on the beautiful shawls, keeping the centuries-old tradition of Kashmiri hand-woven and hand-embroidered shawls alive.
Conclusion
Me & K’s modern charkha has not only revived the art of spinning in Kashmir but also empowered hundreds of women to lead self-reliant lives. By combining tradition with innovation, this initiative is weaving a brighter and more promising future for the women of Narwara Eidgah.
