New Delhi (Agency): The G20 World Leaders Summit, a high-profile international event, is giving Indian artists, particularly those from Kashmir, a unique platform to showcase their talents. The summit, taking place this weekend in New Delhi, features a special Crafts Bazaar. Here, the finest Indian handicrafts are displayed for the attending foreign delegates. One artist in focus is Riyaj Ahmad Khan, a Kashmiri papier mache artist who sees this as an opportunity to promote his art and the Kashmir region on an international level.
Khan said, “First of all, papier mache is made up of recycled paper. Foreigners like this art very much. It is fortunate we have come here to showcase our work during the G20 Summit.” He believes that artists can “avail maximum benefits” from such exhibitions because foreigners are keen to buy their products.
“The G20 delegates will get a chance to see the diversity of Indian art during this high-profile event. They can also place their orders as well,” Riyaj Ahmad Khan stated in his conversation with ANI. His optimism is fueled by his past experiences as well; Khan mentioned that he has set up stalls in many foreign countries and received awards for his work.
Papier mache is a traditional handicraft in Kashmir, brought to the region from Persia by Muslim saint Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani in the 14th century. It is primarily made of recycled paper, making it eco-friendly, a fact that appeals to many people globally.
