A Journey Home: Exploring the Charm and Nostalgia of My Village in Kashmir and Uttarakhand
Can I see the pictures of your village? When I recall my ancestral village in Anantnag District of Kashmir, it’s as if a memory-stained photograph floats before my eyes, leaving one captivated by its inherent charm and beauty. It’s a place where every fostering moment and each familiar sight paint a vivid picture of my roots.
The Beauty of My Ancestral Village (Haina Sundar)
My maternal grandfather’s home is nestled within this breathtaking landscape. It is a place where the sarso field and the view from the roof not only evoke a sense of comfort but also a profound sense of belonging. The village offers an idyllic life, a sanctuary from the relentless pace of city life. However, as years pass, the simplicity of village life can be both a blessing and a curse. It brings a tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere, but adapting to the fast-paced, highly stimulating city life post-decadal residence is challenging.
A Return to Roots (Uttarakhand)
Beyond the Anantnag district, I find myself returning to the mountains of Uttarakhand, my ancestral home. I am a Garhwali, a proud and resilient community. Nostalgia strikes me as I revisit the landscape I once left, now filled with the stories of time and the faces of those left behind. When I was nine, our family gathered here for a pooja, and it was nothing compared to the solemnity of the present. The change is stark, but the essence remains. The absence of animals due to migration and the dwindling number of villagers highlight the unique dynamics of rural life.
A Village’s Transformation (Madanpur)
On the other side of the road, Madanpur village, located in Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar, presents a contrasting picture. This rustic haven is known for its fertile lands, high-point views, and a small community of approximately 150 people. Despite its beauty, the village faces significant challenges with economic hardships and social issues. The lifestyle of migratory labor and their families provides a stark contrast to the serene beauty of the surroundings. It is here that stories of resilience and hope intertwine with the realities of daily struggles.
Life and Traditions (Sukoon and Nostalgia)
Through sukoon, or comfort, and moments of nostalgia, I connect with the essence of my roots. These small yet profound memories have become an integral part of who I am. From the sunset over the hills to the forests that blanket the landscape, each aspect of my village bears the stamps of time and tradition. Winter season adds a layer of purity and calm, and the communal swimming pool remains a testament to the joy and camaraderie of village life.
The public gatherings and festive events are more than just celebrations; they are the heart of the community. The yard where prayers are invoked and the party place where laughter is shared reinforce the strong bonds of family and friendship. The highest point of the village offers a panoramic view, each morning, each sukoon, each sunset, a reminder of the enduring spirit of my village.
Embracing the Village’s Charm
Whether in Anantnag or Madanpur, my villages, my dreams, are filled with the essence of nature and the characters of my community. People from afar have expressed a wish to experience this village life. A village near holy peaks of Ganga and forests full of tall trees, it is a place where the people of Kashmir hold a unique and unmatched beauty. Despite challenges, the allure of the village remains, a testament to the human spirit that endures through time and change.