The Kangri, a traditional fire pot, has become an integral part of life in the harsh winters of Kashmir. For centuries, it has provided warmth to the people of Kashmir, especially when temperatures drop below freezing, Dal Lake freezes over, and electricity is unavailable. During such times, the Kangri becomes a vital means of protection from the cold.
Crafting a Kangri is no easy task. It requires patience and skill. A potter first prepares an earthen bowl, around which a basket-like structure is woven using thin twigs of Keekar (a type of wood similar to bamboo) found in Kashmir. This basket securely holds the earthen bowl in place, ensuring it neither shakes nor dislodges easily. Charcoal or embers, typically from chinar or other trees, are placed inside, turning the Kangri into a portable barbecue.
Artisans embellish Kangris after their construction, adding decorative touches that determine their price, which can range from ₹200 to ₹2000. Some specially crafted and artistically adorned Kangris can cost even more. Among the popular varieties are the BandipuriKangri and ChararKangri, celebrated as exquisite examples of Kashmiri craftsmanship.
Kangris are not just practical but also environmentally friendly. Tourists, both domestic and international, often find themselves captivated by the beauty of Kangris and purchase them as decorative pieces for their drawing rooms.
Kangris hold significant importance in weddings, religious rituals, and Kashmiri folk songs. They symbolize hospitality; when a guest visits, the first thing offered is a warm Kangri. Despite the availability of modern heating devices, Kangris remain a popular choice. A few decades ago, they were relatively inexpensive, costing around ₹10–₹20. Today, their price has increased significantly.
However, improper use of Kangris can be hazardous. Prolonged or careless use can cause skin problems, and medical experts warn of potential risks, including cancer.
Even today, the Kangri remains an essential part of Kashmiri culture and daily life. It is more than a heating device; it is a unique representation of Kashmiri tradition and art. While its demand has decreased over time, it continues to be a symbol of Kashmiri identity. During the icy winters of Kashmir, when snow and cold dominate the landscape, the Kangri becomes indispensable.
Despite its utility, improper handling can pose risks. There are instances of burns and accidents caused by inexperienced users trying to sleep with a Kangri inside their bedding. It takes skill and practice to manage a Kangri safely, even in bed.
Due to its lightweight and portability, the Kangri is highly popular among locals. People often carry it tucked under their Pheran (a traditional Kashmiri cloak), whether they are heading to the market, traveling, or working in the fields. It provides unmatched convenience and warmth during freezing temperatures. In every Kashmiri household, there are usually several Kangris, one for each family member. Kangris are particularly valued by the elderly and reserved for guests as a mark of hospitality. Guests are first offered a warm Kangri before tea or snacks to help them fend off the chill.
The Kangri also holds emotional significance for the Kashmiri people, deeply rooted in their language and culture. Numerous Kashmiri folk songs celebrate the Kangri’s charm. In weddings, a beautifully decorated Kangri is often gifted to the bride during her departure from her parental home. During Shivratri, a major Kashmiri festival, married daughters visiting their maternal home are customarily gifted a Kangri along with other items. In the first year of marriage, during a ritual called ShishurLagun, the bride’s in-laws fill a new and ornate Kangri with dry fruits, money, and other gifts for her. A sumptuous feast is also arranged on this occasion.
Even in rituals for the deceased, Kangris hold significance. Just as earthen pots filled with water are offered to ancestors in other regions, in Kashmir, Kangris filled with embers are dedicated during annual memorial ceremonies. In religious events like Yajnopavita (sacred thread ceremony) and weddings, women sing auspicious songs while burning Harmal (Isbund) seeds in Kangris.
Kangris also address practical challenges posed by the severe winters of Jammu and Kashmir, marked by frequent power outages. During prolonged electricity shortages caused by heavy snowfalls, Kangris become the only reliable source of warmth, even in urban areas like Srinagar.
It is essential to debunk the misconception that Kangris are hung around the neck. In reality, they are carefully carried inside the Pheran to provide warmth to hands and feet. This keeps the body comfortably warm during harsh winters.
In every aspect of Kashmiri life, from daily routines to cultural rituals, the Kangri remains deeply woven into the fabric of its society. Its enduring presence is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of Kashmiri tradition.
The writer is a former Fellow, IIASShimla(HP)
