by Muhammad Nadeem
SRINAGAR: As the dawn of a new year approaches, there is one thing that binds the entire Kashmir across classes and faiths – the desperation to have a new wall calendar. This excitement for the promise of fresh beginnings, has evolved into a unique tradition that has endured for generations.
In every household, business, and shop, the choice of calendar becomes a matter of thoughtful consideration. This tradition of Kashmir has a rich history spanning several decades, marked by the introduction of a fresh theme and perspective each year. Beyond their role as mere timekeepers, calendars hold a pivotal place in everyday life, functioning as cultural artefacts that beautifully depict the diversity and allure of Kashmir.
Among the various options available, including calendrers published by religious institutions and small businesses, three prominent companies stand out for their annual contribution to this tradition: JK Bank, Khyber, and Kanwal, besides the lesser-known but historically rich Nostalgic Kashmir.
JK Bank: Timeless Treasures
Credit goes to the Jammu and Kashmir’s banking behemoth, the Jammu and Kashmir bank that has made the Wall Calendar a brand. Its calendar has historically remained the free, yearlong advertisement and a toll of association of the people with the bank.
Though interrupted for two years during Covid19, it triggered an outcry and the babus in the bank also understood the loss it was. Officials said it was in response to the finance ministry directive to all banks that they should not publish the wall calendars.
Bank’s wall calendar – printed in for the year is a visual treat. By and large, the popular choice is to promote destinations and avoid life in any form.
This year when the bank printed more than a million calendars, the destinations being featured on six pages are Bungus, Botapathri, (Kashmir), Hanle Village, Tso Moriri Lake (Ladakh), and Tulip Garden, Jai Valley (Jammu) – two spots from each region. Unlike past, the calendar showcases two months on each page. Unlike all other arms of the government, the bank continues to operate in all the three regions in two union territories.
A unique feature is the inclusion of QR codes at the bottom of each page, providing direct access to information about loans and other services. However, the bank, unlike past has not flagged all regional holidays. Earlier it used to be six leaves and 12 pages and now it is three leaves and six pages with each page carrying two months.
Khyber: Bridges of Jammu and Kashmir
Khyber’s 2024 calendar highlights the engineering marvels that connect the region, following the theme Bridges of Jammu and Kashmir.
The twelve high-quality pictures, printed on both sides of six sturdy leaves, showcase iconic bridges like Langanbal Bridge, Zainakadal Bridge, and Eco Park Suspension Bridge (Baramulla), Steel Truss Bridge on Mughal Road, Atal Setu Bridge Basholi, Peerniya Bridge Baramulla, Baradari Bridge Reasi, Railway Bride Tikri Udhampur, Bridge 39 Reasi, Magarkote Bridge Ramsoo, Angikhad Bridge Reasi and Chenab Rail Bridge in Reasi. The calendar includes both the Islamic and Gregorian calendars, along with QR codes for additional information about Khyber’s services.
The company recently changed its logo and this is the first calendar in which the new logo dominates all pages.
Kanwal: Fruits and Their Benefits
Known for its spices and culinary delights, Kanwal takes a different approach with the theme Fruits and Their Benefits for their calendar, this year.
Featuring vibrant images of figs, grapes, dates, strawberries, cherry, mango, peach, olive, apple, pomegranate, custard apple, and orange, the calendar serves a dual purpose. It includes both secular and Islamic holidays, displaying both the Gregorian and Hijri calendars prominently. This unique blend of culinary and calendar artistry sets Kanwal’s offering apart.
Nostalgic Kashmir: A Glimpse into the Past
The hidden gem among Kashmiri calendars is the one produced by Nostalgic Kashmir. Created and published by former Chief Engineer Showkat Rashid Wani and his son, this calendar stands out with its historical focus.
Featuring rare photographs and paintings of Kashmir from 1850 to 1950, the calendar serves as a captivating window into the region’s rich past. The collection includes photographs like Shergarhi Palace Complex (1886) by Capt H W Benson, The Bund on Veath (1897) by Henry Baleentine, Balatal in 1866 by Henry WJ Senior, View on Veath (1871) by James Craddock, a Dal Darwaza at Drugjan (1871) by Joh Edward Sache, Nalla Mar (1871) by Joh Edward Sache, Khanqah-e-Naqshaband Sahaib (1925) by Mrs Jenny Visser, View from Amira Kadal (1886) by Captain HW Benson, Maharaja;s Guest House and Ballroom (1890), and Maharaja Ranbir Singh Gunj Market (1886) by Captain HW Benson, View from the Seventh Bridge (1911) by RE Shorter and Winter in Kashmir (1911) by RE Shorter.
The medium-sized calendar, with six leaves and twelve rare pictures, also includes information about the annual exhibition of thousands of rare pictures at Hotel Madhuban.
The calendars of Kashmir not only help in organising time but also contribute to the cultural identity of the region, offering a blend of aesthetics, information, and historical significance. As families, businesses, and shops eagerly await their chosen calendars, the tradition remains a symbol of unity and continuity in the valley.
There are lot many institutions and organizations printed calendars which are being used by people. Some of them are being sold in market as well. The beauty of the wall calendar is that it is a publisher’s free advertisement and an endorsement to his brand for 365 days.in many cases, these calendars find their way into the mosques and other praying space too. By an average, Kashmir alone consumes more than three milion calendars a year.
This year Jammu and Kashmir Yateem Foundation was the first social organisation that came with its wall calendar. The bilingual calendar in English and Urdu focuses on social service messages concerning the skill development of children, good deeds, charity, and common humanitarian causes. It covers the Jammu and Kashmir government’s listed Gazetted and other holidays, alongside highlighting the plight of the poor and needy, emphasising society’s responsibility to address various problems and challenging situations.
Post Script
Jammu and Kashmir Police DGP, RR Swain formally launched the 2024 calendar showcasing significant events from 2023, with a focus on the recognition received through medals, including one Kirti Chakra, two Shaurya Chakra, 80 Police Medals for Gallantry Services, three President Police Medals for Distinguished Services, and 31 Police Medals for Meritorious Services. Highlights include Home Affairs meeting with the families of cops who fell in the line of duty, LG paying tributes and inspecting parade contingents.
