Jammu
and Kashmir or J&K has the distinctiveness of having multihued, motley of
unique cultural blend, differentiating it from the rest of the country. Jammu
& Kashmir is not only different in cultural forms and heritage, but also
different in geographical, demographically, ethical and social entities from
other parts of the country. The state is accurately shaped into a spectrum of
variance and variation
Clearly visible in the distinct parts - Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, all
yielding diverse religion, language and culture, but constantly interfusing,
making it sparkling specimens of Indian unity in diversity. The various
cultural forms like art & architecture, fairs & festivals, rites &
rituals, seers & sagas, languages and landscapes, mounted on the ageless
era of history, speaks aloud of uniformity and diversity with matchless
cultural symmetry & service.
Kashmir has been the highest learning point of Sanskrit and Persian where
early Indo-Aryanic civilization has originated and flourished. Ladakh on the
other side, has been the highest living centre of Tantrayan Buddhism.
Similarly Jammu, has been the axis of Rajas and Maharajas, who have enriched
the cultural, historical and social bonds of all these diverse ethnic and
linguistic sections of the state. The ancient archeological monuments and
remnants of the past are the true picture of the rich cultural traditions of
the state.
Kashmir is justly said to be the Nature's grand finale of beauty. In this
masterpiece of earth's creation seasons in strong individuality vie with one
another in putting up exquisite patterns of charm and loveliness. Nature has
left an indelible mark on the folk performances of Kashmir as they are
intimately interlined with the moods and movements of the seasons.
Jammu the land of the Dogras, offer an entirely different
fare of dances and music. Over the centuries long spell of seperation from
their soldier, husbands and brothers have led the hardy but graceful women
of the Duggar to evolve many diverting dances and songs to keep themselves
in cheer in their free moments. The songs of seperation the ever increasing
yearning for reunion with the beloved, the hard life on the mountain slopes
and various other themes connected with their day-to-day life find their
echo in folk songs and dances.
Ladakh
is the repository of ancient cultural heritage. It is the only place in the
world where Tantrayans Buddhism is practised as a way of life. People of this
region are deeply drenched in music, dance and drama which embody religious
fervour. Ladakhi songs and dances are simple in thought, content and performance
to. Ladakhi dances reveal the simple and noble nature of the Ladakhi people.
Song and drama both are the means towards salvation.
Kashmir, is a land of fabled beauty and eternal romance, blessed by nature
with breath-taking scenery and a glorious climate. The Kashmir valley, a
fertile well watered spot, surrounded by high mountains has been described
with justification as a "heaven on earth", a produce rich oasis an
area not noted for its abundance.
The valley of Kashmir is described as an emerald set in pearls, a land of
lakes, clear streams, green turf, magnificent trees and mighty mountains.
Although Kashmir has a rich heritage of poets, writers, philosophers,
intellectuals and craftsmen but it has basically established itself as an
agricultural economy.
Kashmiris form a distinct cultural and ethnic group in the administrative
unit of the Himalayan state of Jammu and Kashmir, known as "Kashir"
to the inhabitants of the valley and as Kashmir in the official circles.
Perched securely among the Himalayas at an average height of 6,000 feet
above the sea. North, east and west, range after range of mountains guard
the valley from the outer world while on the south it is cut off from the
Punjab by rocky barriers fifty to seventy five miles in length.
The valley is a resting place for adventurous traders from distant markets
of Yarkand and Central Asia, and it furnished a base for military operations
against the wild and turbulent tribes of Shinaki country to the north and
north east. More to the east lie the peaceful valleys of Baltistan or Little
Thibet, where gentle Baltis lead their harmless lives in a high, dry
climate.
Between Kashmir and Skardu (8,873 feet), the chief stronghold of Baltis,
are the great mountain plains of Devsai (13,400 feet), and to the east lies
the high valley of Dras through which runs the road to Leh and Yarkand. A
journey of few days from Kashmir carries one into countries of new
languages, customs and religions like the primitive Shins who live along the
spurs of mighty Nanga Parbat, the Mongolian Baltis of little Thibet and the
simple Ladakhis, Buddhists and polyandrists.
Kashmiris inhabit contiguous areas of Jammu region in Doda, Rajouri,
Poonch, Gool, Gulabgarh, Mahour, Dudu and Bani areas of Kathua district.
Kashmiri language is spoken in all these areas of Jammu region and
ethnically and culturally this forms a compact area along with valley of
Kashmir.
