How AI is Transforming Kashmirs Carpet Industry

How AI is Transforming Kashmirs Carpet Industry | SR News Update

In India's traditional carpet-weaving heritage, a special code called 'talim' is undergoing a silent revolution. This symbolic language, deeply connected to Kashmir's culture, has long been crucial for crafting detailed hand woven carpets. In this report, SURFACES REPORTER (SR) explains how AI is bringing a significant transformation to the carpet industry.

Story of Mohammad Rafiq Sofi's- Seasoned Carpet Weaver

When Mohammad Rafiq Sofi was eight years old, he started learning the art of weaving from his father. For five decades, he dedicated himself to mastering this skill using talim designs. In the past, making a single carpet took more than six months, involving a tedious process of encoding talim designs in small sections sent for weaving.

Talim, the ancient code, reshaping the tapestry of carpet-weaving heritage | Source: Getty Images

Now, with the help of computer software and AI, the entire process has been revolutionized. Weavers like Mr. Sofi can finish weaving a carpet in just six weeks. This technological advancement not only minimizes mistakes but also greatly reduces the time needed for weaving.

AI Development

Aby Mathew's company, International Virtual Assistance, is leading the way in using AI to understand talim designs. This AI is still in development but aims to make the interpretation process more efficient, encourage creativity, and adjust to changing design preferences.

Couretsy: Rug Republic

Indian manufacturers, like Aditya Gupta's Rug Republic, stress the need for innovation to stay competitive globally.

Aditya Gupta's Rug Republic are trying out materials like recycled jeans, cotton, and leather while also staying dedicated to preserving traditional craftsmanship.

Official Tagging System

This allows buyers to check where it comes from and how well it's made, adding up to £36 million ($28 million) in revenue every year in Jammu and Kashmir. About 50,000 workers are involved in making carpets, making it a crucial part of the local economy.

By using technology, AI, and new materials, the industry has not only created innovative designs but also found ways to increase wages and jobs. Feroz Ahmad Bhat, a skilled weaver, is hopeful about the growing trade as the industry welcomes technology and continues to expand.

Courtesy: BBC (India's ancient carpet weaving industry meets AI)
×

Post Your Comment


"Content that powers your Business. News that keeps you informed."

Surfaces Reporter is one of India's leading media in Print & Digital Telecast for News on Interiors & Architecture Projects, Products, Building Materials, and the Business of Design! Since 2011, it serves as a referral for designers & architects to know about inspiring projects and source new products. If you have a Product or Project worth publishing in Surfaces Reporter, please email us hello@surfacesreporter.com or you can also submit your project online.

Like Surfaces Reporter on Facebook | Follow us on Twitter and Instagram | Subscribe to our magazine | Sign Up for the FREE Surfaces Reporter Magazine Newsletter

This Sydney Pavilion turns Oyster Shells into Sustainable Civic Architecture

Integral to the pavilion’s identity is its unique oyster terrazzo cladding, a bespoke material developed exclusively for this project after a year of experimentation by Besley & Spresser.

Read more

How Cork-Based Surfaces are Shaping the Future of Sustainable Interiors

At its core, the Muratto x Momentum collaboration celebrates cork, a natural, renewable and biodegradable material known for its versatility, resilience and tactile appeal.

Read more

Shipping Containers Repurposed into a Landmark Lookout Tower in Czech Republic

The Lookout Above Litomysl takes form through two repurposed shipping containers, one placed vertically to serve as a tower and the other positioned horizontally to form an elevated viewing deck.

Read more

Arazzo Luxury Kitchens by Asian Paints Beautiful Homes - launches at EDGE Studio Ahmedabad - SURFACES REPORTER

Asian Paints’ Beautiful Homes unveiled Arazzo Kitchens with a first-of-its-kind experience centre at EDGE Studio, Ahmedabad — a move that brings the company’s curated luxury-home retail vision closer to designers, architects and high-end homeowners in Gujarat.

Read more


This is alt