Our story began in 1920, when Mr. Akbar Ali, a passionate artisan, established this firm with the vision of preserving and promoting the traditional Kashmiri craft of hand-painted paper mâché. His dedication to this intricate art form continued until 1955, when the reins of the business were taken over by his son, Ghulam mohiuddin Naqash. Under his leadership, the business flourished, staying true to its heritage while adapting to changing times.
In 1990, the next chapter of our journey began when the third generation of our family took charge, bringing a modern vision to our traditional roots. Recognizing the potential of global markets, we expanded our reach beyond India and introduced our handcrafted products to the world. The dawn of the new millennium marked a pivotal moment for us, as we introduced hand-painted enamelware—a fusion of tradition and innovation that was warmly embraced by the industry.
Today, Akbar Art Gallery stands as the largest manufacturer and exporter of these handcrafted products in Kashmir, with an annual turnover of almost half a million pounds.
- Hand-Painted Paper Mâché Items – Beautifully designed, eco-friendly, and steeped in Kashmiri tradition.
- Hand-Painted Enamelware – Unique and durable kitchenware and giftware, safe for everyday use, including dishwasher-safe items.
- Christmas Ornaments & Decor – Intricately hand-painted Christmas glass baubles, paper mâché Christmas hangings, and other festive decorations that add charm and warmth to holiday celebrations.
As a company built on generations of craftsmanship, we are more than just a business—we are a family of artisans committed to preserving traditional art and empowering local craftsmen. Our mission has always been to support the skilled artisans of Kashmir by providing them with a sustainable livelihood while ensuring that their centuries-old skills continue to thrive in the modern world.
Beyond our business, we are deeply involved in social work and artisan rehabilitation programs, ensuring that this rich cultural heritage is not lost but flourishes with the changing times.
✅ Five-time winners of the Top Export Award from the Export Promotion Council of India (2008–2018).
✅ Recognized as the leading exporter of hand-painted paper mâché and enamelware from Kashmir.
✅ A trusted name among customers and collectors worldwide who appreciate authentic, handcrafted artistry.
✔ Authenticity – Every piece is handcrafted with love and dedication by skilled artisans.
✔ Quality – We never compromise on the quality of our products, ensuring they are both beautiful and functional.
✔ Sustainability – Our crafts are made using eco-friendly materials and ethical production practices.
✔ Customer Satisfaction – We take pride in delivering exquisite products that bring joy and elegance to homes across the globe.
Join Us in Celebrating the Art of Kashmir
With every piece we create, we aim to keep the legacy of Kashmiri craftsmanship alive while bringing its beauty to homes worldwide. Whether you’re looking for a timeless gift, elegant kitchenware, or festive decorations, we invite you to explore our collections and experience the magic of handmade artistry.Thank you for being part of our journey.