Known as ‘Chillai Kalan’ (major cold) in local parlance is 40 days period of harsh winter in Kashmir, from 21 December to 29 January every year. The bone-chilling cold period is followed by a 20-day-long ‘Chillai Khurd’ and 10-day-long ‘Chillai Bacha’. ‘Chillai Kalan’ severely affects daily life in the region. People make basic preparations like purchasing warm clothes, firepots, charcoal, and other several equipments to prevent themselves from the cold. People also stock food including rice, dals, dry vegetables etc. Watch this report to listen to the people’s ‘Chillai Kalan’ memories and how they deal with it.
