Suhail Bhat
SRINAGAR, Mar 28: Amidst the sacred embrace of Ramadan, Kashmir’s traditional drummers, known as “Sehar Khans,” continue their age-old tradition, their rhythmic beats pierce the early morning silence to awaken Muslims for Sehri, pre-dawn meal.
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Despite the ubiquity of cell phones and digital alarms, the ancient tradition of Sehar-Khwans remains resolute, echoing through the valleys and alleys of the Valley. These drum beaters commence as early as 3 a.m., traversing distances of up to 5 to 8 kilometers, moving from one locality to another, beating their drums, and calling out loudly, “Waqtey Sehar” (it is time for Sehri).
Mohammad Sidique, a seasoned Sehar Khan, has been awakening the faithful for the last 26 years. He travels 75 kilometers from his village in Bandipora to Srinagar for Ramadan drum beating.
Sidique sees Ramadan not only as a time of divine blessings but also as an opportunity to preserve cultural heritage while reaping spiritual rewards. “For 26 years, I have been honoured to serve my community during this sacred month. As a Muslim, I feel rewarded by Allah, and it fills me with joy to do this good work,” he said.
For Sidique and his fellow drummers, this duty transcends mere livelihood and it serves as a conduit for divine favour and familial sustenance.
Another Sehar Khan, boasting 12 years of experience, shares a similar sentiment. “By waking up people for prayer, I earn blessings from Allah and also make enough money to sustain myself for two to three months,” he said.
Nissar Ahmad, a resident from Srinagar’s old city, said the resounding drums not only mark the dawn but also echo with the essence of tradition. He said he finds solace in the refreshing call to predawn brought forth by the Sehar Khans. “The Sehar Khans are preserving culture, which is the most important thing they can do. When we hear Sehar Khan’s voice in the morning, we feel refreshed,” he said.
Amidst the encroaching tide of modernity, the unwavering commitment of the Sehar Khans illuminates a path toward cultural continuity and spiritual rejuvenation. As Sidique articulates, the fulfilment derived from this noble endeavour is unparalleled.
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