Irfan Tramboo
Srinagar, Feb 14: In the historic old city, along the banks of river Jhelum, the age-old profession of laundry, traditionally carried out by washermen (Dhobis), persists amidst changing times with a dwindling scope.
A select few people who are still associated with the profession said that they are earning a good amount from it but noted that the younger generation, for several reasons, largely prefers to stay away from it.
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“I have been associated with this work for the last several decades; my father as well as my grandfather were also associated with this profession. The scope has decreased over the years, but we are keeping up with it,” said Bashir Ahmad, one of the traditional Dhobis near Safa Kadal.
Almost every day, these Dhobis can be seen washing a range of clothes, mostly traditional shawls and other articles, which are just completed by artisans. These scenes are frequent along the river Jhelum near Safa Kadal, Kadla Yarbal, Batyar Ghat, Vidya Bhavan Ghat and Kokar Yarbal.
There is no stopping these people, who can be spotted busy washing in cold or scorching heat. “The weather is not an obstacle for us; we have to earn our livelihood and carry on with the daily chores of our lives,” Dhobis said.
Earlier, these Dhobis used to receive clothes from people to be washed. However, over time, that practice has stopped with the advent of washing machines and other gadgets, which have made the process easier.
“Decades ago, people used to wash some clothes on their own, and precious or costly articles would come to us because we ensured quality washing with utmost care. But over time, that has changed; we now receive curtains and handmade shawls for washing,” said another Dhobi, Aijaz Ahmad.
While the larger trend is that even the children of those in the profession are not taking it over, those presently in the profession said they face numerous challenges but are keeping up with it.
“Even though there is a stigma associated with it, I believe that no profession is small or big; it is just perception. We have accepted it, but the younger generation is somewhat reluctant. However, this profession will continue because it has the blessings of Amir-e-Kabeer Mir Sayed Ali Hamdani.”
The Dhobis said that while their profession has changed from what it was a few decades ago, they still manage to make ends meet and feed their families.
“As of now, we mostly receive handicraft items that are freshly made, and in some cases, articles for home use. We are thankful that we can still sustain despite odds and difficulties,” they said.
They stated that it would not be wise on the part of the new generation to leave the tradition behind and let it die on its own.
“There is a need for the Government also to pitch in and take steps aimed at preserving the tradition and that might as well keep the youngsters attached with it, because it is our identity,” they added.
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