Bangladeshi Calligrapher Mukhtar Alam Shikdar Plays Key Role in Adorning the Kiswa of the Holy Kaabav

Mukhtar Alam Shikdar, a Bangladeshi-origin calligrapher from Chattogram, has earned international recognition for his significant contribution to the artistic decoration of the Kiswa the sacred black cloth covering the Holy Kaaba in Makkah. His work, deeply rooted in Islamic calligraphy traditions, has placed him among the respected artisans involved in one of the most sacred artistic responsibilities in the Muslim world.

Born in 1962 in Lohagara upazila of Chattogram, Mukhtar Alam grew up in a family with strong ties to the Middle East. His father worked in Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health, which led the family to relocate there when Mukhtar was only four years old. This early exposure to Saudi culture and Islamic heritage shaped his educational and professional path.

Mukhtar Alam later pursued higher education in Islamic calligraphy and completed his master’s degree from Umm Al-Qura University in Makkah. He is currently continuing doctoral research at the same institution, further strengthening his academic foundation in the field of Arabic calligraphy and Islamic art.
 

His association with the Kiswa project began in the early 2000s after his talent was recognized by established calligraphers in Jeddah. Following a formal evaluation process at Umm Al-Qura University, he successfully qualified and joined the King Abdulaziz Complex for the Holy Kaaba Kiswa in 2002 as an official calligrapher.

The Kiswa is known for its intricate embroidery of Quranic verses and ornamental Arabic calligraphy using gold and silver threads. Mukhtar Alam’s role involves contributing to this highly specialized artistic process, which requires precision, discipline, and deep respect for Islamic tradition. His work follows classical calligraphic styles, particularly the Thuluth script, while also incorporating modern techniques that enhance the clarity and aesthetic balance of the designs.

Over the years, his contributions have been appreciated within professional circles for maintaining the traditional identity of the Kiswa while adapting to evolving methods in design and production. His involvement represents a rare intersection of heritage craftsmanship and contemporary artistic refinement.

In recognition of his achievements and contributions to cultural and religious artistry, Mukhtar Alam was granted Saudi citizenship in 2021 under initiatives that honor exceptional foreign professionals contributing to the country’s development goals under Vision 2030.

Beyond his work on the Kiswa, he is also engaged in teaching at an institute associated with the Grand Mosque in Makkah, where he helps train and guide new generations of calligraphers. His career reflects both artistic excellence and educational dedication.

Mukhtar Alam’s journey from a small town in Chattogram to becoming part of the team responsible for decorating one of the most sacred symbols in Islam stands as an inspiring example of how talent, discipline, and opportunity can come together on a global stage.