The People
of Kashmir
The term 'Kashmiri' applies to immigrants mainly from Turkey,
Iran, Central Asia and Afghanistan, who settled in the valley
of Kashmir which is more romantically known as "The Vale
of Kashmir". Many people have a close bearing to
the Indo-Aryan or Indo-Greek decent which is noticeable in religion
and language.
Kashmiris are broad shouldered and usually of medium to tall
stature. Most people have a well developed forehead, a long
narrow face, dark features and a prominent straight and finely
cut nose. A percentage of the people look Jewish and or European
in appearance with fair skin and reddish brown/blond hair and
blue/green eyes. The people are often lighter skin than South
Indians or Pakistani. They are cunning especially with
respect to business. Much like other Indians, they remain watchful
(curious) and calculative when it comes to making decisions.
This character seems to permeate every caste however. Be most
watchful of the group known as "Hanji" (people of
the houseboats) The Kashmiris disposition is cheerful
and humerous although they seldom smile in photographs.
Geographic Location & Climate
Located
in the most North Western district of India, Kashmir is strategically
situated between India's foreign opponents. The East and North
Eastern border lies along China's Tibet, while the Northwestern
Provinces of Pakistan and a portion of Aghanistan border the
West and NorthWest. The Russian Republics are a good days
drive from the Northern border. India's access is limited
to the South. The Great Himalayan, Lofty Karakoram and Pir
Panjal mountain ranges act as natural barriers protecting
these rivals from full frontal assaults.
Kashmir
is located at the same latitude as America's North Carolina
although the climate within the Vale is more closely related
to Colorado. Beyond the Valley, the altitude suddenly rises
from a few thousand to as high as 26,000 feet (K2). Winters
are long and cold from November to March with the occasional
snowfall and 0 temperatures. The rain begins in mid March
and continuous sporadically for several weeks until the relatively
mild summer begins. Temperatures in summer can reach a dry
90, but most often remain mild in the 70's. The Eastern side
of Kashmir (Ladakh) is slightly different with greater extremes
and much dryer conditions.
Industries: Handicraft Import & Export
Small
scale industries make up a large part of Kashmir's economy.
These units manufacture food products, beverages, machinery,
plastic goods, chemicals, drugs, paper products, silk, brick
and tiles, cement and automobile equipment.
The most
famous of Kashmir's industries deal with handicraft. The craftsmen
utilize their creative intelligence and skill to create artifacts
of exquisite beauty. The most recognized of these crafts are
the weaving of Kashmir Carpets in both wool and silk, Kashmir
(Cashmere) Shawls with delicate embroidery, woodwork in teak
and walnut, and papier mache with painting of exquisite detail.
Agriculture
is the most important of Kashmir's industries. About 80% of
the people are cultivators in one form or another. Wheat,
rice, pulses, corns, spices, tobacco and fruits are the most
abundant. The most famous of these products are the vast array
of nut products, delicious apples and the world's finest saffron.
Other products include silk and wool.
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