Kangri:The fire-pot that keeps Kashmir warm; demand surges

The traditional firepot in Kashmir has been keeping the generations warm. This year also due to early snowfall, increase in severe cold and unannounced power cuts, the demand for Kangri has increased with people everywhere seen carrying the colourful warm pot.

Srinagar (JK): Kashmir Valley has witnessed early snowfall this year and it has brought the mercury down increasing the intensity of the cold in the valley, while the electricity crisis has added to the difficulties of the citizens.

After unannounced power cuts, the demand for traditional Kashmiri 'kangri' has increased. People complain that they are facing difficulties due to power cuts during these cold days and they have resorted to use the traditional 'kangri' to protect themselves from this severe cold.

Due to frequent power cuts, electric heating devices have turned useless and the use of 'kangri' has increased manifold.

For centuries, a traditional firepot is used in Kashmir households to escape the biting cold during winter months. Although the use of kangri has declined during the modern period, with the advent of electric gadgets, the importance and utility of kangri still hold its relevance.

Nowadays, Kangri vendors are attracting scores of people and they are seen buying different kinds of kangris as they are available in different sizes, shapes and colours.