Farhan Lone
In a quiet corner of Kanli Bagh in north Kashmir’s Baramulla town, a young artist is redefining how tradition and creativity can harmoniously coexist. Bisma Hamid, a rising calligraphy artist, has steadily gained recognition for her elegant and soulful work that blends classical Islamic calligraphy with modern design sensibilities.
Bisma began her creative journey in 2022, driven by a deep love for art, letters, and meaning. What started as a personal passion soon evolved into a clear purpose, as she discovered that calligraphy was not merely about beautiful writing, but about expressing emotion, faith, and identity through ink. In a short span of time, her dedication and consistency have helped her carve out a distinct space in the world of customised art.
She specialises in designing exquisitely detailed Nikkah Namas, artistic prayer mats, and a wide range of personalised gifts. Her portfolio includes customised mugs, water bottles, pens, keychains, bridal clutches, embroidery hoops, decorative frames, wallets, and thoughtfully crafted Mehar boxes. Each creation reflects careful attention to detail, aesthetic finesse, and personal significance—making her work especially sought after for weddings, religious occasions, and milestone celebrations.
What truly sets Bisma apart is her ability to merge tradition with contemporary taste. Rooted in classical Islamic calligraphy, she experiments with modern layouts, soft colour palettes, and minimalistic designs that resonate with today’s generation. Her work speaks not only to the eye but also to the heart, carrying spiritual depth and emotional resonance. Clients often describe her creations as meaningful keepsakes rather than simple decorative items.
Operating from Baramulla, Bisma’s journey stands as a reminder that talent is not limited by geography. Without access to large studios or metropolitan art spaces, she relied on self-learning, rigorous practice, and social media platforms to showcase her work. Through patience and perseverance, she gradually built a loyal clientele, earning appreciation from both local customers and those beyond the district.
Her success also carries a broader message—particularly for young women. In a society where creative careers are often viewed with scepticism, Bisma’s story demonstrates how passion, when paired with discipline and vision, can grow into a sustainable profession. She has become a source of inspiration for aspiring artists who wish to turn their skills into meaningful livelihoods without disconnecting from their cultural roots.
Community support has played a crucial role in her growth. Encouragement from family, friends, and customers has motivated her to continually refine her craft and expand her offerings. With each new project, Bisma pushes herself to innovate while remaining true to the spiritual and artistic essence of calligraphy.
As she continues to evolve, Bisma Hamid envisions expanding her artistic reach, exploring new materials, and mentoring others who share her love for calligraphy. Today, her work proudly represents Baramulla, carrying its cultural richness beyond boundaries through finely crafted letters and thoughtful design.
From humble beginnings in Kanli Bagh to becoming a name associated with elegance and meaning, Bisma Hamid’s journey is a testament to the power of creativity, faith, and perseverance. Through her art, she is not just writing words—she is writing her own inspiring story.
(Farhan Lone is Freelance writer & photographer from Baramulla, Kashmir)
