These paper horses are also fixed on the entrance of Lok Virsa so that people could notice them. The art of making paper horses transfers from one generation to the next generation of nomads who live in simple huts. Both men and women make these paper horses and sell them mostly to children and earn their livelihood. Along with the paper toys, these nomads cum craftsmen also make clay toys and puppets and sell them in cities. Historians also suggest that some French nationals, who travelled to Kashmir, encouraged this art and in the 19th century, this art of paper work was given the name of ‘Naqaashi’.

Source: The Express Tribune December 26, 2017 04:52 UTC