SNOW has been cardinal in the symbolism and representation attached with Kashmir. Quite obviously, it is touted as an integral constituent of the paradise imagery in Kashmir. However, winter is what it is — a season — an essential arrival in the cycle of nature’s functioning.
This year, winter has knocked very early. As such, objectively, this arrival is an unwelcome one. However, with the aura of connotations that accompany it in the context of Kashmir — the reactions it invited were dual.
For one section, especially those merely concerned with an idyllic view of nature, snow was a warm welcome early guest. These included NRKs who bridge distance with nostalgia. Still others were those cozy and comfortable — viewing winters from a nonchalant distance and perhaps protected by privilege.
For others, snow spilled milk on a year’s worth of toil. This was especially true of apple orchard owners and workers who were pining to prevent weather predictions through prayers. But as snow froze over their fates on Saturday, all hell broke loose. With the news of the impending arrival of early winters, harvesting was sped up but it was still too early to prevent loss. Worse still, the Horticulture sector has had difficult winters since the past few years and this year proved no better.
Therefore, one grid of social media was abuzz with winter carols on picturesque clicks and the other half wore a pall of gloom with apple growers mourning the loss of the fruit of their harvest.
It’s true that nature has a magnetic pull and praise is inevitable. However, it is also important to make sure that all are party to this privilege of enjoying nature. This will only be possible when we look and live equitably. Take active steps in ensuring that all of nature’s vagaries are dealt with a conscious and compassionate camaraderie.
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