All About Sahar Khawan, The Traditional Drumbeaters Of Kashmir During Ramzan That Are Slowly Going Silent

During the holy month of Ramzan, a unique custom comes to life in the slopes of Kashmir as the first rays of dawn tentatively approach. There are ardent calls indicating the time for Sahar or Sehri, the pre-dawn meal before the day's fast begins, and the beckoning beats of drums reverberate through the open fields and small alleyways. The Sahar Khawan, the traditional drumbeaters of Kashmir, continue this ancient custom and are an essential part of the region's cultural and spiritual fabric throughout Ramzan.

Historical Roots And Significance

With a centuries-long history, the Sahar Khawan ritual is ingrained in Kashmiri culture. Prior to the invention of contemporary timekeeping tools, communities depended on these drummers to wake them up for Sahar so they could eat before the morning fast began. Sahar Khawan would travel around cities and villages, their drums acting as a spiritual reminder of the upcoming devotion of the day as well as a timekeeper. Through the mediaeval times, there have been various occupations of this nature which, in the face of modernity and globalisation, have fast dwindled and disappeared altogether.

Life Of A Sahar Khawan

Being a Sahar Khawan is not simply a duty but a vocation that has been passed down through the years. A large number of these drummers are from families where the tradition has been passed down patriarchally, with each member maintaining the custom's holiness and rhythm. For example, families have been carrying out this responsibility for centuries in Srinagar's Nowhatta neighbourhood; present members have devoted decades to this nighttime vocation.

During Ramzan, a Sahar Khawan's day usually starts early in the morning before the birds are out. They start out with their drums at 2:30 in the morning and walk for miles through the darkness. The quiet is broken by their calls of Waqt-e-sahar ("It's time for Sahar"), which implore the devout to get up and prepare for the fast that day. They continue this trek until the first rays of dawn, at which point their nightly duty comes to an end.

Challenges In The Modern Era

The Sahar Khawan heritage is facing serious problems as a result of technological advancements. Many members of the younger generation feel less dependent on these conventional wake-up calls as a result of the widespread use of smartphones and alarm clocks. There have been demands for the drummers to stay away from particular neighbourhoods because some locals have even complained that the drumming keeps them up at night.

Many Sahar Khawan persist in their practice in spite of these obstacles, motivated by a sense of obligation and spiritual fulfilment. They see their work as a way to give back to the community and obtain sawab ("blessings"), or divine reward. Even in the face of declining financial gains, they are inspired to continue by the admiration and respect of people who value the practice.​

Cultural Impact And Community Bonding

The Sahar Khawan are an essential part of Kashmir's cultural identity, and their presence during Ramzan goes beyond their practical purpose as awakening people for Sahar. Residents get a feeling of belonging, solidarity, and purpose as a result of their drumming. The drum's sound serves as a reassuring reminder of custom, religion, and the group's observance of Ramzan in communities where they are accepted.

The community's elders frequently recall the time when the Sahar Khawan's drum served as the only signal for the pre-dawn mealtime. Their tales demonstrate how the drummers contribute to the social fabric by uniting individuals in customs and strengthening ties within the community.​

The Future Of Sahar Khawan

The Sahar Khawan tradition's future is very precarious. Although technology provides easy substitutes, it is devoid of the cultural nuance and individuality that the drummers bring. The community must work together to acknowledge and cherish the distinctive fusion of history, culture, and spirituality that the Sahar Khawan represents in order to preserve this tradition.

The preservation of the tradition may be greatly aided by efforts to promote and document it. The younger generation might develop an understanding for these cultural activities through educational initiatives that emphasise their significance. Furthermore, the Sahar Khawan can continue to play their drums and traverse the streets of Kashmir with the timeless spirit of Ramzan if the community provides them with both financial and moral support.