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| People & Life Style of Jammu and Kashmir |
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Jammu and Kashmir is one of those states that has become famous for its many sided culture. The three regions namely Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh have different people with their diverse culture and traditions.
Jammu is dominated by Hindu population, Kashmir has major Muslim population and in Ladakh, most people follow Buddhism. But one thing that is common to people all regions is the love, affection, and tolerance they have for each other. Even tourists are considered as a part of the family. If you ask a locale about a place to stay, you will probably end up enjoying your vacation in his home, and if you like something worn by a locale and ask him where he bought it from, he will probably offer the same thing to you. That is how simple people of Jammu and Kashmir are, far away from artificial feelings, and deception of life. The lifestyle of people is totally different from that of adjoining states. The food they eat, the dresses they wear, the language they speak is all different and unique. Though Ladakh region shows a strong resemblance to Tibet in all things.
 Valiant Dogra's of Jammu
The people of Jammu and Kashmir have a different lifestyle, depending on the region they belong to. This state is divided into three regions on the basis of its topography and all the three provinces have varied religion, culture and lifestyle. Visit the Jammu city and you will find the majority of inhabitants belong to the Dogra Community that have many sects and castes but mostly famous for the valor and chivalry. Historians believe that Dogras are the descendants of the Aryans who settled on the southern hilly tracts of Kashmir stretching up to Punjab Plains. Dogra Rajputs among Hindus and Chibals and Sudans, the chief sects of Muslim Rajputs are martial races while Khatris and Mahajans of Punjab origin have the basic occupation of commerce and trade. An interactive session with the people of Jammu will make you obsessed to this place and people who have no competitor in bravery and always live with their heads high.
Hospitable Kashmiri's
Kashmir valley has a mixed culture resulted from the influence of foreign religious scholars who visited this state for research especially during Buddhist era and the saints who traveled from far off areas of Persia to preach the religion of Islam in this valley. According to legends the state is influenced by the culture of erstwhile Persian, Greeks and Roman civilizations, while the natives are actually the immigrants from India. On a tour ti this valley you will find that most of the people the of Kashmir are usually god fearing, warm hearted, hospitable and non aggressive and are mostly involved in cottage industry. Come to this part of world and you will be amazed to see the unrivaled craftsmanship and the cultural genius of the natives of Kashmir. Locals of the Valley are known as Kashmiris and have the designation of being the very skillful businessmen.
The Land of Lamas - Ladakh
Ladakh has the population of Mongoloid race. Here people have very cool temperament and are peace loving. The major occupation of Ladakhi's (people of Ladakh) is agriculture and one tribe called Changpas rear the long haired sheep and goats from whom raw wool is extracted that constitute the Pashmina used for making shawls. The cultured pearls, dry fruits especially apricots and semi precious stones are the major products of their business and in return they get the sugar, tea, grain and other essential goods. Travel to Ladakh and enjoy the game of polo with the locals known for there sincerity and honesty.
Customs and Festivals
Jammu and Kashmir is a state of different religions and beliefs. And accordingly, the customs followed and festivals celebrated are many. But the heartening thing about the all festivals here are that they are celebrated by people of all faiths together with same enthusiasm. Main festivals includes - Eid-ul-Fitr, Baisakhi, Lohri and Hemis Festival.
Jammu and Kashmir Clothing
Jammu and Kashmir clothing is reputed for their elaborate design and embroidery. The clothing of Jammu and Kashmir is prepared to suit the cold climate of the region. The richness of the tradition and culture of the state is reflected in the clothing of Jammu and Kashmir.
The Phiran is the traditional dress popularly worn by the people of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The gown is made of wool and is of a loose fit leaving air gaps and spaces to give the individual the warmth required in the cold climate of the region. The people carry earthen pots and hot water bags in the phirans to keep them warm in the winters while traveling long distances in the valley. The phirans are made for both the men and the women of the state of Kashmir.
A True Holiday Destination
The state of Jammu and Kashmir is the ultimate tourist destination where you can experience the myriad cultures of its three regions. The people of the state are very hospitable and left no stone unturned in the service of guests. Learn the few words of one of its languages and it will be pleasure to utter these words back at home. An expedition to the hill areas will be interesting to find the Gujjars living in their hutment's on the steep slopes of High mountains. Come and explore the state called 'Paradise on Earth' because of beauty of nature as well as its people.
Traditional Kashmiri Jewelry
The women of the state of Jammu and Kashmir enjoy decorating themselves with the traditional Kashmiri jewelry. The traditional jewelry of Kashmir is specially made of silver. The sapphires mined in the region are also used to prepare jewelry in the state of Jammu and Kashmir.
The authentic and traditional Kashmiri jewelry comprise of the headpiece that is made of silver and has intricate designs made on the piece. The ethnic headpiece adorns the head of the Kashmiri women enhancing their beauty. Nose rings and studs are also popularly worn by the Kashmiri women. The tourists may gather the traditional jewelry of Kashmir from the rural centers of the state or from the various jewelry shops and showrooms in the city. |
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