The Kashmir Shawl: A Kashmiri Perspective

Zulfi Ali is a noted collector and historian of Kashmir shawls. Drawing on both his ancestral ties and decades of study, he will share insights into the rich artistic heritage of Kashmir and the stories embodied in these extraordinary textiles.

Born and raised in Kashmir, Zulfi traces his lineage to the Sufis who arrived there in the 14th century. He later settled in the United States, building a career as an independent business consultant while continuing his lifelong dedication to Kashmir’s heritage arts. His primary focus is shawls dating from the 18th through the early 20th centuries.

Zulfi describes himself not as a traditional collector, but as a custodian of his ancestral heritage:

“I don’t see my collection as a trove of exotic antiquities, but as a medium to tell my story and to serve as a voice for the voiceless artisans whose extraordinary skill, creativity, and dedication produced these priceless artifacts.”