Why in news
Papier mache artisans in Srinagar are creating dodo bird models.
The dodo became extinct in 1681, but this artwork brings attention to its memory.
These dodo figures are in high demand, especially for Christmas decorations.
Over 50,000 papier mache dodos have been exported, primarily to Mauritius and Europe.
Papier Mache Art
It is a handicraft of Kashmir that was brought by Muslims saint Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani from Persia in the 14th century to medieval India.
It is based primarily on paper pulp, and is a richly decorated, colourful artefact; generally in the form of vases, bowls, or cups (with and without metal rims), boxes, trays, bases of lamps, and many other small objects.
The product is protected under the Geographic Indication Act 1999 and was registered by the Controller General of Patents Designs and Trademarks.
Economic and cultural significance
The craft sustains local economies by creating thousands of dodo models for export.
The dodo, though extinct, is culturally important to Mauritius, where it is the national emblem.
This unique form of art brings international attention to Kashmir's craftsmanship.
The craft also highlights the environmental message about the dodo's extinction, drawing connections between art and conservation.
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