Chillai Kalan marks the 40-day period of the harshest winter in Kashmir, commencing on December 21st with the winter solstice and concluding on January 31st. This period is renowned for its extreme cold, cultural significance, and impact on daily life.
During Chillai Kalan, temperatures plummet significantly, often falling below freezing even during the daytime. This year, Srinagar recorded its coldest December night in five decades, highlighting the severity of this period.
The region experiences substantial snowfall, covering the landscape and freezing water bodies such as the Dal Lake. This snowy blanket is a defining feature of Kashmir's winter.
Chillai Kalan is deeply embedded in Kashmiri culture. Locals adapt to the harsh weather by donning traditional attire like the 'pheran', a long woolen cloak, and using the 'kanger', a traditional fire pot, to keep warm.
The extreme cold and snowfall can disrupt daily life, often freezing water supply lines and hindering travel. However, the snow is crucial for agriculture, as it replenishes water resources and ensures a good harvest, particularly for apple crops.
The term "Chillai Kalan" has its roots in the Persian language, where 'Chila' means 'to confine oneself indoors', reflecting the tradition of staying indoors during this harsh period.
Chillai Kalan is succeeded by two milder phases:
Despite the challenges it poses, Chillai Kalan remains an integral part of Kashmir's identity, significantly influencing its cultural practices and traditions.
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