Sajid Raina
Gurez, Oct 03: The people of Tulail Valley in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district are keeping alive the centuries-old tradition of “Doli” during marriage ceremonies.
Despite the availability of modern transportation and improved socio-economic conditions, the locals prefer to uphold this tradition using horses and Dol-e (palanquin).
This unique custom involves carrying the bride to her matrimonial home in a carriage or cot called a “Zapan” by close family members.
Shahnawaz Ahmad a Gurez resident said that, even though such marriages are rare, they do take place in remote areas like Tulail. The traditional customs of Dol-e-Khandar (bride carried on a palanquin) and Guer Mahraaz (groom carried on a horse) have gradually declined over time. However, the people of Tulail and Gurez continue to embrace these practices, demonstrating their commitment to preserving their cultural heritage.
As modern means of communication developed and the socio-economic conditions of the people improved significantly over time, the age-old customs of Dol-e-Khandar (marriage with the bride carried on a palanquin) and Guer Mahraaz (marriage with the groom carried on a horse) began to wane,” he explained.
“Kashmiris have cherished the timeless traditions of wedding ceremonies for generations. The act of giving away the bride is a unique custom that not only symbolizes bidding farewell to the bride but also encourages her to embark on a new journey in life,” he noted.
“In the days of yore, even Kashmiri families in cities would arrange a ‘Doli’ or ‘Zapan’ (a carriage or a cot) to transport the bride to her marital home. This task was typically carried out by close family members or hired helpers known as ‘Qahars’ in Kashmiri. They would ceremoniously convey the bride to her new family’s residence,” Ahmad added.
“Even in Gurez town, villagers continue to opt for Dol-e and horses to celebrate the weddings of their loved ones, thus ensuring the preservation of this time-honored tradition,” he added
“Recently, a marriage ceremony in Dawar town followed the same tradition, attracting several tourists who eagerly participated and enjoyed this cultural spectacle,” he added.
With the decrease in cross-border shelling fears, grand wedding celebrations reminiscent of traditional ceremonies are once again possible in the region. This has led to increased engagement and joyous celebrations among the locals, particularly during the current season. (WITH INPUTS FROM KNO)
