Mohammed Matloob

Place: Nagina

Biography:

Mohammed Matloob is a master craftsman of wood carving, known for his exceptional talent and craftsmanship. He was born in Nagina, Bijnor district, Uttar Pradesh, India and shifted to Seelampur in East Delhi at the age of ten, as an apprentice to his uncle Abdul Rehman Khan, who was a master craftsman. Matloob looked up to his uncle, whom he refers to as his guru (teacher), and aspired to be a National Awardee just like him. His work sends him around the world and he is today not only a National Awardee but has also earned the title of 'Shilp Guru' or craft master, which makes him a government appointed teacher of wood carving to the younger generation. He now has a team of five apprentices, including his son. He has also taught this craft to his daughters and wife, who help when a bulk order demands. He believes that the only way to master any craft is through continuous practice.