Located in picturesque Uri area of North Kashmir’s Baramulla district, the village of Dudran is a testament to the preservation of ancient kashmiri traditions.
The name Dudran finds its roots in the village known for its dairy products. Renowned for producing milk, curd, butter, and cheese, the inhabitants of Dudran follow ancient methods of storing milk through natural means. Gurus is the process by which they transform milk into butter and curd.
Despite the modern age, the people of Dudran persists In using ancient methods for survival. The inhabitants of Dudran still using ‘Gratt’ (flour mill) constructing using stone and wood.
Dout khot are small caves like structure that act as natural refrigerator for the villagers to store milk. Doud khot are constructed near natural springs to keep milk cool. Houses in Dudran are built from stones, wood, and mud.
Despite the modern age where machine dominated the life. Dudran proudly boasts two traditional water flour mills which highlights the dedication to ancestral methods of obtaining dairy necessities.
The Dudran village encapsulates the essence of old Kashmir and the hospitality of it’s people is truly remarkable.
Despite the changing climate, the villagers cultivate fresh vegetables. Drying technique are employed to preserve vegetable for harsh winters.
Mohammad Abdullah Sheikh, an elderly local revealed that everything about his village he said, “we are using techniques which our ancestors did, and we will continue to preserve and practice them.”
He also mentions that in winters they completely depend on dry stored vegetable because of heavy snowfall extended up to 15 feet.
The people of Dudran are not only preventing traditions but also environment. In the heart of Dudran, the time stands still and echoes of ancient Kashmir resounds painting a vivid portrait of a community dedicated to preserving it’s rich heritage in the modern era.
Writer is intern at Rising Kashmir
