Preserve, promote tradition

While tourists enjoy the rich culture and tradition of Kashmir everyday in the Valley at different tourist destinations, the youth here have shown reluctance to their own culture and have opted for western culture only. Similarly, the International Pheran day was celebrated Wednesday at several places, but a look within the society shows how the people have stopped wearing the Pheran, which is a tradition of Kashmir. Amidst such a situation, some of the youngsters have joined hands to celebrate the day and showcase the rich culture of Jammu and Kashmir through a programme, organized last year as well as Wednesday in which the models from different parts of the Valley were called, who were seen wearing traditional Pheran with new designs to keep their tradition alive. Pheran is a loose tunic that extends below the knees and is worn in the winter – is unmistakably Kashmiri. Yet, it has become fashionable in other parts of India too. The appeal is obvious – the garment is warm without being cumbersome to wear, handle or clean. However, to preserve the tradition of Kashmir, the youngsters have shared their bit by organizing an event and highlighting the tradition to the world, but it is the time when the elderly persons within the society should promote the culture and encourage their young family members to preserve the culture and tradition for the future generations. It is the time when the society needs to take all the mandatory steps to promote and preserve the age-old tradition and culture of Kashmir.