TDD Correspondent
Srinagar, (TDD): The feared Chillai Kalan is set to begin tonight, bringing with it 40 days of freezing temperatures, strong winds, and heavy snowfall that will test both the resilience of the Kashmiri people and the endurance of nature itself. This harsh winter period, running from December 21 to January 30, is a defining feature of life in the Valley.
For residents, Chillai Kalan is more than just a season; it is a battle for survival. The severe cold transforms the landscape into a snowy, icy expanse, and traditional practices become vital in coping with the extreme conditions. Abdul Sattar, a resident of downtown Srinagar, shares, “The kangri becomes our best friend during these forty days, and even stepping outside feels like a punishment.” The kangri, a traditional firepot, provides much-needed warmth as locals huddle together to stay warm.
Fayaz Ahmad, another Srinagar resident, speaks of the preparations that are crucial to surviving the season, saying, “We stock up on firewood, salt, and essentials well in advance. You can’t take chances in this season.” With frequent power outages and freezing temperatures, ensuring a supply of essentials becomes a priority for families across the Valley.
Despite its severity, Chillai Kalan also has a certain charm for many, particularly for children. “The snow turns everything into a fairytale. It’s harsh, but there’s beauty in it,” says Sahil, a young child from Srinagar. For youngsters, the snow transforms the landscape into a magical playground, even as they endure the challenges of the season.
As the region enters this frosty phase, the winter months attract tourists who marvel at the snow-covered beauty of the Valley. At the same time, local traditions like preparing harissa, a beloved Kashmiri winter dish, and the continued use of pashmina wool and kangris, are essential to staying warm and maintaining the cultural fabric of the region.
Though the arrival of Chillai Kalan is often met with apprehension, it also symbolizes the resilience and strength of the Kashmiri people. Over the next 40 days, the locals will face the cold with a combination of preparedness and cultural endurance, demonstrating how the harshest of winters only strengthens the bond between nature and tradition.(TDD)
