Understanding Chillai Kalan: Kashmir's Major Cold Phase

Understanding Chillai Kalan in Kashmir

Kashmir is currently preparing for a significant weather change as it enters the Chillai Kalan period, which is characterized by intense cold and snowfall. This 40-day duration marks the harshest winter phase in the region.

What is Chillai Kalan?

The term Chillai Kalan is derived from Persian, meaning “Major Cold.” It typically commences on December 21 and concludes on January 30. During this time, the Kashmir Valley experiences severe winter conditions, including widespread snowfall and plunging temperatures that often dip below zero.

Phases of Chillai Kalan

Following Chillai Kalan, two additional winter phases occur:

• Chillai-Khurd (Small Cold): This 20-day period runs from January 31 to February 19, featuring more moderate winter conditions.
• Chillai-Bacha (Baby Cold): Lasting from February 20 to March 2, this 10-day phase indicates the gradual end of winter.

Cultural Significance

In Persian culture, the night of December 21 is celebrated as Shab-e Yalda, known as the “Night of Birth” or “Night of Forty.” This celebration acknowledges the longest night of the year, which coincides with the start of Chillai Kalan.

Environmental Impact

Heavy snowfall during Chillai Kalan plays a crucial role in replenishing water sources in the region's higher altitudes. This natural process ensures that rivers, streams, and lakes are sustained throughout the drier summer months, highlighting the importance of this winter phase for ecological balance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the duration of Chillai Kalan?
Answer: Chillai Kalan lasts for 40 days, beginning on December 21 and ending on January 30, marking the coldest period in Kashmir's winter.

Q2. What follows Chillai Kalan in Kashmir?
Answer: Following Chillai Kalan, the region experiences Chillai-Khurd, a 20-day period of moderate cold, and Chillai-Bacha, which is a 10-day phase signaling the end of winter.

Q3. How does Chillai Kalan affect water resources?
Answer: The heavy snowfall during Chillai Kalan replenishes water reservoirs, ensuring that rivers and lakes maintain their levels through the summer season, which is vital for agriculture and daily use.

Q4. What is Shab-e Yalda?
Answer: Shab-e Yalda, celebrated on the night of December 21, marks the longest night of the year and is significant in Persian culture, coinciding with the start of Chillai Kalan.

Q5. What are the temperature conditions during Chillai Kalan?
Answer: During Chillai Kalan, temperatures in Kashmir often drop below zero, leading to severe cold waves and significant snowfall throughout the region.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What does Chillai Kalan refer to in Kashmir?
A) A cultural festival
B) A winter phase
C) A summer season
D) A historical event
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: When does Chillai Kalan start and end?
A) November 21 - December 30
B) December 21 - January 30
C) January 31 - February 19
D) February 20 - March 2
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What is the Persian meaning of Chillai Kalan?
A) Minor Cold
B) Major Cold
C) Night of Birth
D) Spring Season
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: Which phase follows Chillai Kalan?
A) Chillai-Bacha
B) Chillai-Khurd
C) Summer Phase
D) Autumn Phase
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: What is Shab-e Yalda?
A) A winter festival
B) Night of Birth
C) A summer celebration
D) A historical event
Correct Answer: B

Question 6: What impact does Chillai Kalan have on water resources?
A) Decreases water levels
B) Replenishes water reservoirs
C) Causes droughts
D) Pollutes water sources
Correct Answer: B

Question 7: What is the typical temperature condition during Chillai Kalan?
A) Mild temperatures
B) Sub-zero temperatures
C) Warm weather
D) Rainy conditions
Correct Answer: B