WINTERNET

December 21st, every year marks the beginning of Chillaikalan in Kashmir when the biting cold transforms the valley, causing a significant drop in temperatures. Residents adapt by bundling up and seeking warmth indoors. Heating facilities become crucial to combat the freezing conditions, especially for those in hilly areas with limited modern amenities. It is basically a spell of forty days intense cold that has a unique history. During these days, harshest chill, across the Valley deepens with sharp dip down in mercury.

No doubt, this time the impact of intensified cold was visible ahead of this period, yet, compared to the other days, it certainly freezes all over when Chillaikalan arrives. The days and nights during this period become totally frosty. People wrap themselves up warmly in cozy atmosphere most of their time. Daily routine of people faces a change. With whatever means possible, they save themselves from the cold.

Followed by ‘Chillai Khurd’ (20-day long small cold) and ‘Chill Bache’ (10-day long baby cold), the severity of ‘Chillai kalan’ (40 days major cold) is such that it is said to freeze boiling water containers, bringing snow and rain essential for the future. While advancements have reduced the impact, the chilling period still poses challenges, particularly for those in rural areas where basic facilities are scarce. Poor communities, unable to afford warm winter clothing, face increased vulnerability, and some may even succumb to the harsh conditions.

In Srinagar, there's some respite for citizens during Chillaikalan, but rural areas experience significant disruptions. Heavy snowfall further isolates these regions, making daily life exceedingly difficult. Places like Leh, Ladakh, Drass, and other mountainous areas grapple with the full strength of Chillaikalan, leading to a tough and challenging existence.

The struggle against the cold is evident as people in rural areas rely on traditional heating sources be it Kanger (traditional fire-pot) or Bukhari, given the scarcity of modern facilities. Movement becomes restricted, and the bitter cold brings various diseases, posing potential threats if not properly addressed. In times past, according to anecdotes from parents, Chillaikalan was even more ruthless, with heavy snowfall persisting for months freezing everything with huge icicles all around, and profoundly impacting daily life thereby confining people to Houk Suen, Makkai Tsout, Kahwa, Anchar, Razma Dal, etc.only. 

The government attempts to meet the needs of the people during this challenging period, recognizing the suffering Chillai kalan imposes on the common man. Despite advancements and efforts to alleviate the impact, the chilling spell remains a formidable force, particularly for those in remote areas battling not just the cold but also the accompanying hardships.

As memories recount a more severe Chillai kalan of the past, the present-day challenge persists, emphasizing the resilience required to endure the biting cold and its consequences. Though now, it is welcomed and celebrated as an occasion in Kashmir under an event like Jashn-e-Chillai Kalan where not only our rich cultural heritage gets showcased but much is presented by the local artists to the audience as a real testament to the fact called ‘thrill in chill’.

With paradigm shift in the scenario from past couple of years in UT, every citizen’s well-being is prioritized under strict vigil. The main motive behind many Govt. initiatives is to minimize common man’s problems with door-step facilities. Not only in the city but beyond it also, govt. men and machinery remains all set to tackle the vagaries that Chillai kalan unfolds. Gone are the days when snow in the streets would remain un-cleared for months on end. Things have changed now. Though challenges emerge during the time, yet, people triumph over them with valor.

(The writer is a Rafiabad based author and recipient of National Peace Award. Feedback at:  manzurakash@yahoo.co.in)