Karakul or known as Karakuli in Kashmiri is not a mere headgear but a representation of heritage . After many years the fashion and trade of Karakuli is making a comeback in Kashmir. It has been a symbol of our collective heritage.
Karakul actuality known is also called Uzbek hatand is a hat made from the fur of the Qaraqul breed of sheep. Karakul directly translates to black fur in the Uzbek language and the hat originally comes from Bukhara.
It has had its eminence throughout the world.
In the Soviet Union, the karakul hat became very popular among Politburo members. It became common that Soviet leaders appeared in public, wearing this type of hat. The hat probably gained its prestige among Party leaders because it was an obligatory parade attribute of the tsar and Soviet generals.
By wearing the karakul hat, Soviet leaders wanted to underline their high political status.
The Karakuli is finding its buyers once again in Kashmir, as it has its own unique charm.
Popular names for the wool used to make these caps include astar, astarkhan, broadtail, qaraqulcha, and Irani menda. The Turkish word Karakul’s literally translation is “black wool.”
In terms of design, the cap is peaked and has several parts. When removed from the head, it folds flat. The headgear has gained much popularity among Muslims in Central and South Asia, yet it has no particular religious meaning.
As a matter of fact, the Kashmiri gentry are associated with this headgear, although it does not originate from Kashmir. It was arguably popularised by Muslim leaders in the Kashmir Valley in the 1930s/40s, and it had been pioneered by Sheikh Abdullah.
Even if it has increasingly found its way onto ordinary men’s heads, it is still regarded as costly headgear. The price ranges between INR 5,000 and 50,000 for this beautiful Kashmiri headgear. The higher the price, the better the quality and texture of the fur used to produce the Karakul hat. Characterised by a lightweight smoothness that has tight curls, velvety texture and glossy sheen, a Karakuli is a fashion statement in itself.
Traders point out that due to different facets and above all inspiring looks it provides the Karakuli is making a comeback of sorts in Kashmir. The need of the hour is that new generation of Kashmir adopts to rich colorful aspects like Karakuli that enrich our culture in major way.
