SRINAGAR (KIMS) — Samahira Qureshi, a self-taught calligrapher, has turned her passion into a flourishing career, earning recognition for her intricate and beautiful work.
Born in Dildar village in Karnah, Kupwara district of North Kashmir, Samahira is gaining recognition not only in her hometown but beyond.
She completed her schooling at Government Middle School Dildar, earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree from the University of Kashmir, pursued a B.Ed. from Cluster University Srinagar, and obtained a Master’s in Psychology from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)—all while nurturing her growing love for calligraphy.
Reflecting on how she discovered her passion during the COVID-19 lockdown, she said, “Art has always been my escape. During the pandemic, when everything felt uncertain, I was drawn deeper into calligraphy. What began as a way to pass time quickly became something more. After sharing my work on social media, the positive response inspired me to take it seriously.”
Samahira’s calligraphy journey started with online lessons, where she honed her skills under the guidance of international mentors. “Learning through online platforms was transformative, allowing me to explore global trends and techniques that broadened my perspective,” she adds.
Samahira describes calligraphy as more than just writing—it’s about bringing words to life. “Calligraphy is a meditative process that demands patience and precision. Every stroke tests your control, and the beauty lies in weaving letters into art.”
Mastering the craft hasn’t been without its challenges. “The most difficult part is maintaining consistency,” Samahira explains. “A single stroke can change the entire look of the artwork. This taught me to approach every piece with mindfulness and focus. It’s an exercise in discipline.”
Her family has been her greatest support throughout the journey. “When I first showed my work to my parents, they were very encouraging, especially since much of my calligraphy involves Arabic text. My siblings have also supported me at every step, motivating me to follow my passion,” she says.
What started as a personal interest has now blossomed into a successful business. Samahira receives custom orders from all over Kashmir, catering to a diverse range of clients—from art lovers to those seeking personalized keepsakes. “Most clients request simple designs featuring their names, but I always aim to push the boundaries of my art. I want to create something truly extraordinary that challenges the traditional forms of calligraphy,” she shares.
Despite her growing success, Samahira remains humble and dedicated to lifelong learning. “Even though psychology was my main academic focus, I’ve committed to continuous learning—whether in psychology or in calligraphy. There’s always something new to explore and improve,” she notes.
Beyond her artistic achievements, Samahira views calligraphy as a spiritual practice. “It’s more than just creating beautiful designs—it’s a way of connecting with something larger, especially when I work on sacred texts,” she reflects.
As her reputation continues to grow, Samahira is optimistic about what the future holds. “Alhamdulillah, the response has been overwhelming. I’ve received orders from all over the Valley, and the support from my community has been incredible. I hope to keep growing, both as an artist and as an individual,” she says with humility.
Looking ahead, Samahira hopes to take her art beyond Kashmir and gain international recognition. “I want my work to resonate with people around the world. Calligraphy, especially when it involves sacred texts, has the power to transcend borders,” she says.
Samahira Qureshi’s journey from a quiet village in North Kashmir to the wider world of art is a testament to the transformative power of dedication and passion. With her roots grounded and her eyes set on the future, she is well on her way to becoming one of the most celebrated calligraphy artists in the region and beyond. — (KIMS)