JAMMU, Oct 20:
Jammu and Kashmir Government have recently come up with a retail showroom named as ‘JK Bazar’ in the national capital but shockingly, the outlet only showcased Kashmiri items whereas the delicacies of Jammu and other specialties ‘missed’ by the visitors and thus left them dejected.
Many Jammu based visitors telephonically expressed resentment asserting that Jammu and Kashmir does not only means “Kashmir” but it is comprised of both the regions.
“Especially when Jammu and Kashmir has been bifurcated into two Union Territories then at this juncture, Jammu cannot be ignored again as it is now governed by the Centre,” they expressed, adding that if similar discrimination continues and only “Kashmir” is projected, then no matters whether the State earlier was ruled by the popular Governments or now governed as UT by the Centre.
Pertinent to mention here that on October 17, Governor Satya Pal Malik inaugurated a newly built ‘JK Bazar’, a retail showroom of authentic Jammu Kashmir Handicrafts, Handlooms, Silk, Agro based products and Restaurant serving Authentic Kashmiri Cuisine at J&K House, 5-Prithvi Raj Road, New Delhi.
As per official version, the newly constructed State of Art Showroom is for promoting J&K specific products of Handicrafts and Authentic cuisine and shall cater to the people who cherish the Kashmiri handicraft and relish the traditional Kashmiri food which is now available in the heart of Delhi.
The Governor had said that the Kashmir handicrafts are prized everywhere for their exquisite craftsmanship and Kashmir not only offers mesmerizing locations but also a wide range of lip smacking and exotic delicacies especially the essence of Kashmiri influence which is found in the Wazwan- a meal traditionally consisting of 36 courses.
Other handicraft products in the showroom which are on display include-Paper Machie items, carved walnut wood items, Pashmina Shawls and Kashmiri embroidery Sarees.
Meanwhile the gesture of the Jammu and Kashmir administration of “only promoting” Kashmir and neglecting Jammu yet again invited criticism from civil society of Jammu.
A renowned Dogri promoter said that Jammu not only has rich history but it has so many things to show to the people across the globe.
“Only Kashmir is projected and every time, we have to be louder to make our presence felt,” he added and said that Jammu region has rich treasure of food, handicraft and culture to cater people.
“Rajmash” (beans) of Bhaderwah, “Patisa” (sweets) of Kud, “Basmati” (Rice) of RS Pura, Anardana of Jammu and Kishtwar, Guchhi (Black Morels) of Jammu, Chikri Works (wooden toys and furniture) of Darhal, Rajouri, Kaladi of Udhampur, Sapphire (precious gems) of Paddar, Kishtwar, White Honey of Doda, Kishtwar and Udhampur, Pashmina Shawls and Paintings of Basohli, Kathua and Calicos of Samba are just few to make mention of specialties of Jammu but none of them find mention in ‘JK Bazar’, which is ironical, he rued.
However, the items served at a restaurant inside ‘JK Bazar’ named as “mealability-The Flavour of Kashmir” includes Nadir Yakhin, Ruwangan Tscaaman, Dum Oluv, Haakh, Chok Wangan, Chef’s Vegetarian Tasting-Platter, Koku Kanti, Tabalmaaz, Matsch Tukki, Seekah Kahab, Kokur, Roganjosh, Goshtaab, Maaz Kaliye, Riste, Chef’s Non Vegetarian Tasting Platter, Adrak Nadru Ki Tikki, Tscaaman Kanti, Haakh Kababs, Nadir Maunj, Batte (steamed rice), Roti.
Desserts are comprised of Kaung Phirin, Shufte, Chef’s Kashmir Calling and The Classic Kahwa.
The visitors especially Jammu based living in the national capital have expressed ‘unhappiness’ over Kashmir’s love showered at ‘JK Bazar’ and demanded inclusion of famous items of Jammu. (UNI)
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