Kashmir, often described as heaven on earth, is known for its four distinct seasons-spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Each season carries its own charm, significance, and deep cultural connection with the people of the valley. Among them, spring holds a special place, for it marks the rebirth of life after the long and harsh winter. With the arrival of spring, nature awakens from its deep slumber. Snow begins to melt, rivers start flowing freely, and the land slowly regains its colours. Birds return to the trees, filling the air with cheerful chirping, while flowers begin to bloom across fields and orchards.
Apple orchards prepare for a new cycle of life, crop fields turn vibrant, and tender green grass spreads across the landscape. The terraced lands display a beautiful contrast of brown soil bordered with fresh green growth. Spring does not only transform nature; it also changes the mood of people. After months of cold and isolation, faces begin to glow again. Farmers return to their orchards and fields with renewed hope and enthusiasm.
However, the spring that we witness today is not the same as it once was. Decades ago, this season carried a deeper cultural beauty and simplicity. People stepped into their orchards with tools of cultivation and baskets of hope. Today, unfortunately, many walk into the same orchards carrying chemicals and pesticides.
One of the most beautiful cultural traditions associated with the spring of Kashmir was the collection of dandelions, locally known as Handh. Fields, earthen ridges (locally called bun/Bare), and apple orchards, especially those located on slightly elevated lands known as wuder, would appear like lively gathering grounds. Young girls and women from villages would step out in groups carrying traditional baskets on their heads and small knives in their hands to collect the tender dandelion leaves. These girls were lovingly known as “Handh Koor” the girls who gather Handh.
The sight of these Handh Koors walking through village paths in the soft spring sunlight was truly enchanting. After the long winter, their presence itself symbolized the return of life and joy. Their laughter, colourful attire, and baskets created a scene that added immense charm to the Kashmiri spring. As they collected Baar Handh (dandelion from crop fields) and Baag Handh (from orchards), they would sing traditional Kashmiri songs. The melodies of Rouf and verses of great Kashmiri poets like Lal Ded and Habba Khatoon echoed through orchards and fields. The chirping birds joined this melody, creating a natural orchestra in the heart of Kashmir’s countryside.
The beauty of Handh Koor even inspired Kashmiri poets. The famous poet Rasul Mir beautifully captured such scenes in his poetry:
Matan wudre hunk san chokh khasaa,
Tik dar kasabas grai choka maara.
Wali kasturi yi par mai trav naariye,
Chon paknov parzanov me dorye.
While reading Rasul Mir, one cannot help but imagine that he too might have been enchanted by the grace and charm of the Handh Koor.
For the people of Kashmir, Handh was not just a plant, it was a natural healer. Scientifically known as Taraxacum officinale, dandelion has remarkable medicinal properties. It was traditionally cooked as a nutritious spring vegetable and was believed to purify the body after winter. Families also dried it for use during the following winter months. It was particularly given to women after childbirth as a natural remedy for recovery and strength.
Thus, both Handh and Handh Koor symbolized healing, one healing the body, and the other healing the spirit through beauty, culture, and tradition. When the golden flowers of dandelion bloomed across fields and the graceful Handh Koors walked through village paths, together they created the true jewellery of Kashmiri Spring.
Sadly, this beautiful tradition is slowly fading away. The new generation hardly recognizes these symbols of culture and nature. Instead of baskets filled with wild greens, we now see plastic containers filled with chemical pesticides. The gentle rhythm of village life is being replaced by machines, tillers, and chemicals.
Today we are facing increasing health problems, including cancer and other deadly diseases. Perhaps one reason is that we have drifted away from the natural ways of life that once kept our society healthy and balanced. We have forgotten the simple gifts that nature and God bestowed upon us. It is time to rediscover and revive these traditions, traditions that connect us with our land, our culture, and our natural heritage. The story of Handh Koor is not merely a memory of the past; it is a reminder of a harmonious relationship between humans and nature.
If we wish to preserve the true spirit of Kashmir’s spring, we must bring back the values, simplicity, and respect for nature that once defined our lives.
Only then will the valleys once again witness the real beauty of spring, where the golden flowers of Hand bloom across fields and the graceful Handh Koors walk through village paths, carrying with them the timeless charm of Kashmir.
The author is an educator and columnist focused on education, ethics, environment and emerging social challenges in the digital age.
