New Delhi, Nov. 12 -- Pashmina, the ultra-fine fabric crafted from the natural undercoat of the Changthangi goat, has long been a distinct identity of Kashmir. Pashmina shawls, which have a feather-light, exceptionally soft feel, are crafted by seasoned artisans who have spent a lifetime learning and perfecting the craft.

A single piece passes through 12 to 14 distinct manual processes over days before the fibres are turned into the famed Pashmina shawls.

75-year-old Abdul Majeed Zargar from Amda Kadal Jogiwan, Srinagar, is not an artist making Pashmina shawls, but plays a key role in their creation. That is because he is one of the last Mukh craftsmen in the valley.

Locally called 'Mukh' the small wooden shuttles are an integral part ...