CULTURE IN KASHMIR

Kashmir has a rich cultural heritage. The place has earned its culture from the Middle East, from where it came with a number of Sufi saints who came to Kashir. Culture in valley varies from place to place. Kashmiri language displays a remarkable feature with the dialect changing after every 10 km. The people in all parts of the valley are very hospitable and helpful. The guests are looked after very well.

People in Jammu Kashmir have been very conservative as far as their philosophy is concerned. They like to stick to their values and decades of interactions with the cultures of other places have not corrupted its culture. This fact, however, does not indicate that people are orthodox or backward, but they are simple and warm hearted.

People in most parts of the valley speak Kashmiri language; the dialect, however, changes remarkably after every 10 km. People usually wear long and lose clothes. In winters the main item of clothing is the long gown, Pheran, which protects them from the chill. The pheran is different for men and women. Women wear embroidered pherans in summers as well. Kangri, firepot, forms an essential part of winter and you will be amazed to see every local people carrying one inside their pherans. They take Kangris to bed as well and keep it under their feet to keep themselves warm.

Delicious Kashmiri wazwan forms the soul of the cuisine in the valley. However, this food is served on special occasions like marriages. Normally people eat rice and vegetables in their lunch and dinner. People have salty tea in the breakfast along with bread made by the local baker. Cashmere bagel is particularly tasty and popular. Food in Ladakh is mainly Chinese.

Music of regionis mainly Sufiana. The traditional folklore of Kashmir is the Chakkir which is sung by a chorus of singers led by the lead singer. Various musical instruments used include Harmonium, Sitar, santoor, rabab etc. The major dance form is the “Roaf” performed by women, who make aesthetic movements while they sing. The songs are suited for different occasions.

Kashmir has also made important contribution to the literature of India as well. Many poets, dramatists and story writers are known for their great works.People in are warm-hearted and hospitable. They make you feel comfortable and are really helpful. Don’t be surprised if you get invited in some marriage or at a party and served with delicious wazwan. Cashmereloves food and they serve their guests with the choicest of dishes.

The rich cultural legacy of that they got from the Sufi saints interests many people, who visit this place to get more acquainted with the people and their culture of the valley.