In the 115th episode of his popular radio program Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the artistry of Firdousa Bashir, a young calligrapher from Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir. PM Modi praised her dedication to promoting local culture through the intricate art of Islamic calligraphy, showcasing Kashmir’s cultural richness.
Following her unexpected mention, Firdousa expressed her excitement and joy, revealing her wish to meet PM Modi. “I would be very excited to meet PM Modi. This will also inspire our youth,” she shared. Family members, neighbors, and the local Sarpanch have expressed pride and happiness at Firdousa’s recognition.
She admitted, “I never thought PM Modi would mention me on Mann Ki Baat. I like this program because he appreciates everyone’s talent and inspires them to showcase their skills.”
Firdousa’s calligraphy journey began in her village, Kehribal, after completing her 12th grade. Rather than choosing a conventional path, she studied Islamic literature, which led her to the art of calligraphy. Inspired by a YouTube video, she pursued calligraphy on her own, overcoming initial doubts from her family. Her growing talent eventually won their support.
Today, Firdousa holds workshops and exhibitions to introduce local youth to this traditional art, reinforcing its value in modern Kashmiri culture. Her success serves as a beacon for aspiring artists in the region, proving that cultural heritage can find expression in contemporary art forms.
Calligraphy is more than just beautiful handwriting; it has roots in many cultures and traditions. Through the precise strokes of her pen, Firdousa connects Kashmir’s rich heritage with a modern artistic approach, inspiring young artists to preserve and appreciate this centuries-old art form.
The art of calligraphy involves creating beautiful, decorative handwriting, often with specialized tools such as nibs, broad-tip pens, and brush pens. It’s an accessible art that relies on basic strokes and deliberate practice, even for those without perfect handwriting. In Kashmir, calligraphy bridges past traditions with modern artistic expression, keeping the cultural legacy alive.
