Zahid Wani

Srinagar, Nov 13(KNS): Despite modern technology, the traditional Kangris, earthen firepots, see increased demand with the arrival of winter in Kashmir valley.

The Kangri, an earthenware encased in a wicker basket, serves as a portable heater embraced by Kashmiris within their cozy woolen cloaks to combat the freezing winters, preserving the age-old tradition of staying warm in the Valley.

Recent heavy snowfall in the higher reaches and rain in the plains of the Kashmir Valley has led to a drop in temperature, consequently causing a surge in the sale of Kangris this year.

"Kangri is the ultimate weapon against the harsh cold of Kashmir; it's indispensable for staying warm during winters. Even with advanced heating equipment, Kangri holds a unique significance and cannot be replaced. Its importance has stood the test of time and will continue in the future," said Mohammad Ayoob Mir, a local from Lal Chowk.

While acknowledging the availability of modern heating gadgets, he highlighted Kangri's charm, especially considering the occasional electricity shortages in Kashmir during severe winters.

Customers also expressed the crucial role Kangri plays in Kashmir's winters. One customer emphasized its significance for protection against the cold, particularly in areas with unreliable electricity. "It is very difficult to bear the harsh winters without Kangri. It is very important for protection from cold. Kangri can be ignited using charcoal," said a customer.

Another customer stressed that Kangri is the most important thing during Kashmir's winters, attributing its necessity to the unreliable electricity supply. He emphasized Kangri's cultural importance, representing the unique identity of the Kashmir Valley.

A seller explained that Kangri is manufactured across all regions of Jammu and Kashmir to meet the needs of the people, and its usage peaks during November and December.

Crafted from dried willow tree twigs with a round earthen pot for charcoal, Kangri's traditional appeal remains unmatched, prCustomers also expressed the crucial role Kangri plays in Kashmir's winters. One customer emphasized its significance for protection against the cold, particularly in areas with unreliable electricity. "It is very difficult to bear the harsh winters without Kangri. It is very important for protection from cold. Kangri can be ignited using charcoal," shared a customer.

Another customer stressed that Kangri is the most important thing during Kashmir's winters, attributing its necessity to the unreliable electricity supply. He emphasized Kangri's cultural importance, representing the unique identity of the Kashmir Valley.

A seller explained that Kangri is manufactured across all regions of Jammu and Kashmir to meet the needs of the people, and its usage peaks during January and February. Crafted from dried willow tree twigs with a round earthen pot for charcoal, Kangri's traditional appeal remains unmatched, preferred by people over other available options.

Mohammad Sultan, a Kangri vendor at Hazratbal, noted a significant increase in sales today, selling around 20 kangris after the Friday prayer—an occurrence not seen before.

Bilal, a Kangri seller in Khanyar on the city outskirts, highlighted the soaring demand for Kangris, attributing it to people favoring traditional earthen pots over gas bukharis due to recent fire accidents in the valley. Bilal, a small Kangri seller, expressed satisfaction, selling five to six Kangris daily

Another Kangri seller from Lal Chowk, who traveled from North Kashmir to the city, expressed gratitude for the successful sales.(KNS).