SRINAGAR: The Handicrafts and Handloom Department on Saturday marked the onset of Chilai-e-Kalan by organising Pheran Day at Kashmir Haat in Srinagar, highlighting Kashmir’s traditional winter attire and indigenous crafts.
Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, inaugurated Pheran Day and Jashn-e-Chilai-Kalan, formally ushering in the forty-day harsh winter period in the Valley. The event featured stalls by local artisans displaying traditional winter wear, including pherans and blankets, aimed at promoting local handicrafts and handloom products.
Addressing the gathering, Garg said the celebration reflected the cultural importance of Chilai-e-Kalan, a period during which people make special preparations to withstand extreme cold. He said the exhibition, which will continue for two days, has already drawn a large public turnout at Kashmir Haat.
The Divisional Commissioner described the pheran as a symbol of Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage and the craftsmanship of local artisans. He congratulated the Handicrafts and Handloom Department for organising the event and appreciated artisans for showcasing their skills. Garg also expressed satisfaction over the increasing participation of youth in the handicrafts and handloom sector.
Highlighting departmental initiatives, he said programmes such as Know Your Artisan and various skill development schemes are being organised regularly to support artisans and promote local crafts.
On the weather outlook, Garg said the administration is fully prepared to meet challenges posed by snowfall and expressed hope that winter conditions would boost tourist footfall during the festival period. He also advised the public to follow the winter fire prevention advisory and ensure audits of heating and winter appliances in view of the rise in fire incidents during the season.
The event was attended by Director Handicrafts and Handloom Mussarat Zia, senior officers, artisans and people from different walks of life. Musical performances were also organised at the Exhibition Ground, Kashmir Haat, adding cultural colour to Jashn-e-Chilai-Kalan.
