Dry spell leads to decline in Kangri sales, say artisans

Muhammad Jakaria

Srinagar, Jan 26 : The prolonged dry spell in the Kashmir Valley has led to a decline in demand for Kangris, according to artisans making these traditional firepots.

Kangris, the traditional earthen pots filled with hot embers, have been a customary source of warmth in Kashmiri households during harsh winter months. However, the dry spell and milder temperatures have reduced the overall need for these traditional warmers.

Speaking with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), local Kangri artisans, who have been crafting these distinctive heating devices for generations, expressed concerns about the impact on their livelihoods. They said the decrease in demand directly affects their income as Kangris are less sought after during the milder temperatures resulting from the prolonged dry period.

KNO reached out to artisans in Okey village of south Kashmir’s Kulgam district, who said they have never witnessed such a prolonged dry spell, and it is affecting their sales. The demand for Kangris has declined, leaving many struggling to make ends meet.

One artisan, with decades of experience in this traditional craft, said his work has suffered, with about 90% of the stock remaining unsold. He said the high day temperatures in the valley have led to a decrease in Kangri demand as people are using these firepots less frequently.

Abdul Rashid, a Kangri seller from north Kashmir’s Bandipora district, said that in previous seasons, he used to sell 30 to 40 Kangris per day. However, this season, he hardly sells 5 to 10 per day. “The Kangri culture in Kashmir has been adversely affected by the prolonged dry spell,” he said.

The higher reaches of the valley received snowfall last night and early Friday morning.

Faizan Aarif Keng, an independent weather forecaster, told KNO that the last wet spell occurred around December 22 in higher reaches. “Today’s wet spell has brought an end to the dry spell that Jammu & Kashmir experienced over the last 30-35 days,” he said.

More wet spells are expected in the coming seven days, both in higher reaches and plain areas of the Union Territory, with an even better spell anticipated around January 28-29, Faizan said—(KNO)