LIFE OF A NON-KASHMIRI IN KASHMIR
Living in Kashmir as a non-Kashmiri can be a unique and interesting experience. The Union Territory is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich culture and history. The region sometimes remains in adverse news for its political tensions and conflicts, which can make life for non-Kashmiris in the region challenging at times. One of the first things that a non-Kashmiri may notice on arriving in the region is the unique culture and customs of the Kashmiri people. The Kashmir valley has a rich history and culture, which has been shaped by centuries of influence from various cultures and religions. From the beautiful traditional dress and the delicious local cuisine to the famous Kashmiri hospitality, non-Kashmiris can quickly find themselves falling in love with Kashmir’s unique charm. However, living in Kashmir as a non-Kashmiri or rather part of a non-majority community can also present some challenges. The recent targeted killings of people belonging to the minority community in Kashmir include ML Bindroo, Supinder Kour, Deepak Chandra, Puran Krishan Bhat, Sanjay Sharma, etc. These instances are scars blot on the concept of Kashmiriyat. Kashmir has been the subject of territorial disputes between India and Pakistan since the 1940s and the region has seen its fair share of violence and unrest over the years. Another challenge for non-Kashmiris in the region is the language barrier. While many Kashmiris speak English and Hindi, the official language of the region is Kashmiri. Non-Kashmiris who do not speak Kashmiri may find it difficult to communicate with locals or wade through the daily life in Kashmir.Despite these challenges, living in Kashmir as a non-Kashmiri can also present many unique benefits. For example, the region is the abode of some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world. From the snowcapped peaks of the Himalayas to the serene waters of Dal Lake, non-Kashmiris can enjoy some of the most breathtaking views and outdoor activities in the region. Kashmir being home to some of the most fascinating history and culture in the world with many ancient temples, mosques, palaces and architectural marvels is a treat for any non-Kashmiri.Living in Kashmir as a non-local presents plethora of opportunities to work with and learn from local communities. The region has a vibrant business community, with many small businesses and entrepreneurs working to build a better future for themselves and their families. Non-Kashmiris who are interested in business or social work can find many opportunities to work with and learn from these communities. The recent foundation stone laying ceremony which was done by Jindal Steel Works in the region is a testimony to the fact that winds of change have finally arrived and are here to stay. It is a matter of great pride that a place where stones were pelted has now become a place where foundation stones are being laid.Another important set of people worth mentioning here is the community of migrant / non-local laborers. Many non-Kashmiri laborers migrate to Kashmir in the summer months to work in sectors such as agriculture, construction, tourism, etc. While these labours contribute significantly to the economy of Kashmir, their life in the region can be fraught with difficulties. One of the biggest challenges that they face is that of accommodation. Due to the high demand for housing in Kashmir, many labourers are forced to live in cramped, unhygienic conditions, often with little or no access to basic amenities such as clean water and sanitation. Even if some migrant labourers are fortunate enough to find an accommodation for themselves, they have to share small rooms with several other people making it difficult to get any privacy or rest. Another challenge that these labourers face is that of social isolation. Being away from their families and communities, many labourers struggle to build social connections in Kashmir. The language barrier and cultural differences can also make it difficult for them to integrate with the local community. Moreover, labourers are often subjected to exploitation by their employers, who pay them low wages. In some cases, labourers are forced to work in hazardous conditions without adequate safety measures but just to make their ends meet; labourers do not have much choice thereby putting their health and well-being at risk. Despite these challenges, many non-local labourers continue to work and live in Kashmir, driven by the need to earn a living and support their family. Their resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity is truly commendable. They deserve greater support and recognition for the contribution to the economy and society of Kashmir. The life of a non-Kashmiri in Kashmir is a complex and nuanced one, with many challenges and opportunities. By fostering greater understanding and empathy amongst communities, we can work towards building a more inclusive and harmonious society in Kashmir.
