CHILLAI KALAN

“The sun is sinking down and Kangri is glowing up to embrace the Winter Tide”

Chillai Kalan is the colloquial local term used to describe the spell of harsh winters in Kashmir. The word Chillai Kalan denotes ‘The Major Cold’. The period generally starts from 21 December and ends on 29 January every year. The intense cold weather condition in the region sees freezing temperatures with heavy snowfall. The weather gods tame the lifestyle of the habitat in the region and force them to prepare for unique challenges during the period. The heavy snowfall in Chillai Kalan white blankets the lush green meadows creating a mesmerizing picturesque.

The people in the region gear up themselves for embracing the coldest month of the year well in advance. They stock firewood, food supplies and winter clothing to protect them from the harsh weather. The Kangri (Earthen Pot) and Pheran (Long Winter Dress) duo act as life savior kit for each one in the region. Everyone keeps Kangri under their Pheran to create a sheath of warmth to battle the chilling weather. The people rejoice the cold season by spending time with the local community creating a bonding spirit in the locality. The locals also prepare a special dish called Harissa (made of lamb/ chicken) which is rice cooked to a thick consistency overnight. They also have a traditional green tea infused with spices called Kahwa. These food practices not only portrays their sustenance but also reflects their cultural identity. Few places in Kashmir like Gulmarg, see a relatively high footfall of tourists who enjoy winter adventure activities like skiing. This also creates a distinct fusion of challenge and opportunity for the local economy. The local administration over the years has expertised itself in maintaining the roads and essential commodities in the region.

The climate change has impacted the globe in many ways and its cascading effect poses a serious threat to the future. Kashmir is also a victim to global warming. If no concrete steps are undertaken we might lose the paradise on earth before it is reopened to the world from chains of terrorism. The Chillai Kalan is gradually losing its identity due to temperature rise as an effect of global warming. This year is no exception and has experienced abnormal precipitation patterns leading to altered snow patterns. Due to this, the region is bound to burden itself with severe implications like water availability, agriculture productivity, snow storms etc. The climate change is also contributing to glacial retreat which is an ignition to rise in water levels in rivers which may lead to valley floor flooding. This will also impact winter tourism in the region which is one of the most integral part to local economy.

It is inevitable for the people to adapt themselves to the climate challenges and come together to implement sustainable good practices to mitigate the climate change impacts and preserve such a delicate ecology for the future generations. In spite of harsh challenges, Chillai Kalan is embedded in the hearts of the people of Kashmir. It is seen as a season of resilience and unshakable spirit of facing nature’s severity with elegance. The difficulties faced in the period by the habitat always longs for a hope in the upcoming spring.

Ideas, Opinions and Views expressed in articles are Writer’s own and may not be in accord with those of The Morn