Noor ul Haq
Baramulla, Jan 13: In the heart of Kashmir, where winters are renowned for their harshness, a shift in climate patterns is reshaping age-old traditions. The 40-day period of ‘Chilai Kalaan,’ marked by bone-chilling temperatures, typically sees Kashmiris relying on the traditional fire pot known as the “kangri” to stave off the cold.
However, this winter, the familiar sight of locals carrying kangris during the day is notably absent.
Local residents informed The WebStory that the rise in temperatures has rendered the use of kangris unnecessary during daylight hours.
Tanveer Ahmed, a resident of Sopore, said, “It was 12°C here in Baramulla, the same as in Jammu and Delhi. There is no need for a Kangri during the day.”
He expressed concerns about the impact of global warming on the valley’s climate.
This winter, the Kashmir valley has experienced an unusual absence of snowfall during the traditionally harshest phase of winter.
Experts warn that if this pattern persists, it could pose challenges for the agricultural and horticulture sectors, as well as impact winter tourism in the valley.
Ishfaq Ahmad, a Kangri maker from Nadihal village in Baramulla, shared his perspective on the changing trends.
He revealed that this winter has not been good for business, with rising temperatures diminishing the demand for Kangris.
Typically, Ishfaq would sell over 200 Kangris in a season, earning more than ₹50,000. However, this year, sales have taken a considerable dip.
Describing the intricate process of making kangris, Ishfaq explained that it begins in autumn with the collection of wicker sticks from forests and fields. The sticks undergo a labor-intensive process, involving boiling, peeling, and drying.
Craftsmen then weave the prepared sticks around an earthen pot to create the traditional Kangri.
The cost of a Kangri varies based on the process and materials used, ranging from ₹250 to ₹1,500.
Ishfaq highlighted the popularity of fashionable Kangris, which are sold for higher prices, attracting tourists and individuals looking to adorn their homes or present them as gifts.
