Understanding the 40 Days Cold in Kashmir

What is 40 days cold in Kashmir?

The region of Kashmir, known for its breathtaking beauty, is also infamous for its harsh winters. One of the most challenging periods of this season is the 40 days of extreme cold, locally known as ‘Chillai Kalan’. This article aims to shed light on what exactly is the 40 days cold in Kashmir, its impact on the lives of the people, and how they cope with it.

What is Chillai Kalan?

Chillai Kalan is a term used in the Kashmiri language to describe the 40-day period of harsh winter, starting from December 21 and ending on January 31. This period is characterized by heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures often dropping to minus degrees, and shorter daylight hours. The severity of the cold during Chillai Kalan can be so intense that even the lakes and rivers in the region freeze.

Impact of Chillai Kalan on Daily Life

The extreme cold during Chillai Kalan significantly affects the daily life of the people in Kashmir. Here are some ways how:

  • Disruption of Normal Life: The heavy snowfall often leads to blocked roads, disrupting transportation and communication. This can result in shortages of essential commodities and medical supplies.
  • Impact on Health: The extreme cold can lead to various health issues such as hypothermia, frostbite, and respiratory problems.
  • Effect on Livelihood: Many people in Kashmir depend on agriculture and tourism for their livelihood. The harsh weather conditions during Chillai Kalan can adversely affect these sectors.

Coping with Chillai Kalan

Despite the challenges, the people of Kashmir have developed unique ways to cope with the harsh winter. Some of these include:

  • Use of Kangri: Kangri is a traditional fire pot used by Kashmiris to keep warm. It is filled with hot embers and carried under the clothing.
  • Stockpiling Essentials: Before the onset of Chillai Kalan, people stock up on essential commodities to avoid shortages during the period of extreme cold.
  • Winter Sports: Despite the harsh conditions, Chillai Kalan also brings opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, attracting tourists from around the world.

Conclusion

Chillai Kalan, the 40 days of extreme cold in Kashmir, is a challenging period for the people of the region. It disrupts normal life, impacts health, and affects livelihoods. However, the resilience of the Kashmiri people is evident in the unique ways they have developed to cope with the harsh winter. Despite the challenges, they embrace the season, finding joy in the beauty it brings and the opportunities it presents.

In conclusion, Chillai Kalan is a testament to the spirit of the Kashmiri people, their resilience, and their ability to adapt to the harshest of conditions. It is a period that defines not just the winter of Kashmir, but also the character of its people.

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