Abdul Hamid
The culture and heritage of Kashmir is the most unique element of the state which is instrumental in grabbing the attention of the global tourists. Distinctly unique handicrafts, literature, history, architecture and beauty contribute to the Kashmiri culture. The state is also known for the amalgamation of diverse cultures influenced by various faiths co-existing since medieval age. The influence of Sanskrit language can be found in many parts of the state. Influence of Central Asian countries and Persia can also be seen in the culture of Kashmir. These blends form an important aspect in the Kashmiri ethos. Apart from the above, the valley is also well known for its indigenous handicrafts and architecture. The traditional attire of the state is vibrant & diverse. The Kashmiri dresses paired with the exquisite jewelry provides the womenfolk with sublime beauty which is very rare in the country. In some parts of the state, headgears adorned with jewels are also worn by the women. During summers, loose salwar kameez is worn by the women. In winters however, the traditional Pheran is worn for keeping oneself warm. The Pheran is also decorated with spellbinding karigari (embroidery work) flaunting the fine embroidery depicting the famous Chinar (maple) tree leaves.
The men on the other hand wear skullcaps and headgear according to the weather. During summers to dissipate the heat, the men wear Kurta pajama the traditional dress of the UT. Due to some influence of Persia and the Middle Eastern Countries, the Pathani kurta is also famous in the area. During winters the men also wear the traditional Pheran. Though less vibrant the men’s Pheran keeps the body warm during the harsh winters of the area. The fabric used to weave these apparels hugely depends on the weather and season. These traditional attires are the quintessential part of the rich cultural heritage of the region. The youth of Kashmir is bonded with the culture of ‘ruhaniyat’ & sufism. They prefer instruments like Rabab and guitar to jive along with their music. The older generation prefers to enjoy the songs which delineate the divine beauty of Kashmir. With the music, dance also forms a very important facet of their life e.g. the Mask Dance is executed on the occasion of the Hermit Festival. Some other dance forms in the region are Chakri, Rouf, BhandPather, Hafiza, Kud, and Bacha Nagma. Major musical instruments in the area are Sitar, Rabab, Dumru, and Nagara. These musical instruments apart from the festivals can also be heard on occasions like weddings, get togethers & also on the banks of Dal lake. Apart from the above, songs are clubbed with the music to make the celebrations more joyous. The most preferred types of song in the region are Wanwun, Ghazals, Choral as well as Sufi.
The cuisine in Kashmir is both delicious and extravagant. The cuisine in Kashmir caters for both the vegetarians and the non-vegetarians. To the meat lover’s delight there is a wide variety to choose from. The local cuisine offers dishes like Trout fish treats, Kashmiri Kebab, Pasanda, Syun Alu, Yakhni, and Methi Keema. For the vegetarian there is no need to worry as the cuisine offers myriad dishes like Rajmah, Shree Pulao, Ladyar Tsaman, and Nadru Yakhni. The place also offers diverse variety of Kebabs & Tujji (steaks of meat). A meal is never complete without a dessert. The Kashmiri cuisine offers desserts like Sevaiyaan & Phirni. The people also try their hands-on Jalebi-rabri & various milk-based desserts. Kashmir is a land of diverse faiths and the festivals here are celebrated with zeal and enthusiasm. The well-known festivals in the region are Eid-ul-Fitr, Lohri, Tulip Festival, Holi, Shikara Festival, Hemis festival, Gurez Festival, and Sindu Darshan. The festivals are also classified according to the area. The Gurez festival for instance is a widely known for the vibrant attires, cuisine and the music. The festivals are also organised to celebrate the beauty and the nature of respective regions. These festivals are enjoyed by each and every one and provide one with an insight into the traditions and the culture of the area.
Architecture in Jammu and Kashmir is varied with the influence of Central Asian countries and the medieval Indian one. One is awestruck with the grandeur of the architecture. The region is brimming with magnificent monuments with unique architecture with picturesque landscapes in the backdrop. For the spiritually inclined, there are shrines and temples in the area. They offer religious sanctuary and opportunity to be one with the Supreme Being. The shrines of Vaishno Devi, Amarnath, Hazratbal, Kheer Bhawani the famous Shankracharya Temple are the noteworthy sites worth exploring. For the people with adventurous streak, the region provides abundance of opportunities in the form of picturesque mountains, valleys, lakes and rivers. The area is nestled within the Pir Panjal and Karakoram Ranges. The tourist attractions in the area are the sky lodges of Sonamarg and Gulmarg, trekking expeditions of Bungus valley, off roading in Gurez valley. For the ones needing scenic beauty, the area provides gardens of Nishat and Shalimar, Tulip gardens, Chashm-e-Shahi. The purple beauty of Lavenders at Gulmarg needs a special mention for the nature lovers. The endeavor of every person visiting this paradise on earth should be to unlearn the past traumatic history of Kashmir & look forward into the brighter & beautiful facets of the rich Kashmiri culture and heritage. Intermingling with the citizens, talking to them, sharing their traditions & meals, listening to their thoughts and then carrying home these cherished memories of a progressive yet traditional region of India.
