KASHMIR’S RICH CULTURAL HERITAGE
The Kashmir Valley, once a cultural melting pot, is home to a unique blend of ethnic groups and social units. The region’s cultural diversity is reflected in its language, dress, customs, rituals, and history. Kashmiri, the native tongue, is an essential part of the region’s cultural identity, with a vocabulary influenced by various languages, including Persian, Central Asian, and Indo-Aryan. The Kashmiri language, rooted in the Dardic subgroup of Indo-Aryan languages, evolved with influences from Sanskrit, Persian, Urdu, and English. Historically written in Sharada script, it now predominantly uses the Perso-Arabic script.
Kashmir’s handicrafts have a rich history, showcasing the region’s exceptional artistry and cultural heritage. The craft of carpet weaving was introduced to Kashmir by Persian and Central Asian weavers in the 15th century under the patronage of Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin and has produced renowned Kashmiri carpets featuring intricate designs and superior craftsmanship. Over 100,000 artisans are employed in the carpet industry, creating hand-knotted masterpieces from high-quality wool and silk. The Kashmiri shawl, especially the iconic Pashmina, is world-renowned for its softness, warmth, and intricate embroidery., with the art of shawl-making flourishing during the medieval era.
Papier-mâché, introduced in the 14th century, is a vibrant craft featuring floral motifs and Persian-influenced patterns, with over 5,000 artisans engaged in this art form. Kashmiri cuisine, known for its royal feasts and exquisite dishes, has been influenced by successive kings and tourists from Persia, Afghanistan, and other parts of the world.
Calligraphy was introduced to Kashmir in the 14th century by Sufi Saint scholar-Sharaf-ud-din Bulbul and flourished during the Mughal era, producing renowned artists like Muhammad Husayn and Muhammad Murad, whose works are showcased in major museums worldwide. Irtiqa Bazaz, a 23-year-old, has turned her childhood passion for calligraphy into a career. She began imitating Quranic verses in her notebook at age of 10 and later developed a deep interest in the art form. Now, she’s pursuing a degree in applied arts to master calligraphy and painting.
Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its vibrant music and dance traditions. Sufi music, with its soulful melodies and devotional lyrics, has a long history in the region, dating back to the 14th century when Sufi Saint Lal Ded popularized the genre. The traditional folk dance, “Rouf”, is a colourful and energetic expression of Kashmiri culture, characterized by intricate footwork and rhythmic movements, performed by a group of 10-15 dancers, who move in unison to create a mesmerizing spectacle. This dance form is often performed during festivals like the Eid and Navroz, showcasing the region’s love for music and dance. These unique art forms not only entertain but also convey the spiritual and emotional essence of Kashmiri identity.
Ladishah, a centuries-old Kashmiri tradition of musical storytelling, combines humor and satire to address social and political issues. Originating in the 18th century, Ladishah performers traditionally travelled to villages, using a ‘dhukar’ (iron rod with rings) to enhance their narratives. This art form, once fading, is experiencing a revival. Syed Areej Safvi, Kashmir’s first female Ladishah, has modernized it through YouTube, gaining significant attention. A recent survey found that 70% of Kashmiris recognize the cultural importance of Ladishah, highlighting efforts to preserve this heritage.
However, the impact of intermediaries and the decline of traditional skills have jeopardized the cultural heritage of Kashmir. Efforts are being made to revive Kashmiri art, but more needs to be done to support artisans and preserve traditional crafts. It’s time to revive the forgotten charm of Kashmir’s cultural heritage, and the youth are key to this revival.
The decline of traditional folk music performances, handicraft production, and festival attendance is a pressing concern. In the last decade, there has been a 70% decline in traditional folk music performances, a 50% reduction in handicraft production affecting over 10,000 artisans, and a 30% decrease in festival attendance, threatening the survival of traditional events. Not many of the younger generation are finding it enthusing to follow the traditions whether as a career or as a hobby.
Efforts are being made to preserve and promote these art forms, with many young calligraphers trained in traditional Kashmiri calligraphy in the last 5 years. The Jammu and Kashmir Heritage Conservation and Preservation Act seeks to safeguard the region’s cultural wealth. Its purpose is to conserve both physical and non-physical aspects of heritage, encompassing historic landmarks, cultural relics, and traditional customs. By establishing a clear framework, the legislation streamlines conservation initiatives, ultimately ensuring the long-term protection of Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural identity for generations to come.
The Kashmir Music Academy has trained young musicians in traditional music since 2015, while the Kashmir Handicrafts Corporation has supported 200 artisans, resulting in a 25% increase in handicraft production. Additionally, 15 festivals have been revived in the last two years, attracting over 100,000 attendees. The J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) has organized Rouf festivals and workshops, while the Indian government’s Ministry of Culture has provided funding for its preservation and promotion.
The J&K Tourism Department has featured Rouf performances in cultural events and festivals, showcasing the dance form to a wider audience. Academic institutions like the Kashmir University’s Department of Music and Fine Arts have introduced Rouf in their curriculum, ensuring its continuation among the younger generation. Cultural organizations like the Waheed Jeelani Centre for Arts and Culture have conducted workshops, while the J&K Folk Academy has documented Rouf’s history, steps, and music. Digital platforms have also been utilized to promote Rouf, with YouTube channels and social media groups dedicated to showcasing performances and providing tutorials.
Preserving cultural heritage is essential for regional identity, with 60% of Kashmiris believing it is crucial. The impact of cultural events and handicrafts on tourism revenue is significant, with a 40% increase attributed to these activities. Moreover, handicrafts and tourism contribute 20% to Kashmir’s GDP, supporting over 50,000 families.
Engaging the youth is crucial to ensure the survival of Kashmir’s cultural heritage. By involving young people in traditional music, handicrafts, and festivals, we can preserve cultural traditions for future generations, provide economic opportunities for artisans and musicians, and promote cultural tourism and revenue growth.
Kashmir’s cultural heritage is a treasure trove waiting to be rediscovered. Let us join hands to support artisans, preserve traditional crafts, promote the Kashmiri language, and engage our youth in the revival of our cultural heritage.
( Author is a columnist)
