Hailing from the Hassanbad area of Rainawari in Srinagar, Hussain is among the remaining few darners specializing in the intricate craft. Darning, a traditional art form in Srinagar that evolved alongside carpet weaving, holds the power to rejuvenate ageing carpets. Darning, locally known as ‘Rafoogari’, demands precision in matching colours and weaves to seamlessly integrate repaired patches with the existing fabric. “It is more than just stitching. It is an art that breathes life back into these antique carpets. Preserving history and culture is integral to our craft,” explains Hussain, his hands deftly maneuvering through threads and fibers.
