Muhammad Badrudduja Jan
Amid the stunning landscapes of Kashmir, breakfast is synonymous with the warm, inviting scent of freshly baked bread from the local Kandur. These traditional bakeries are deeply woven into the fabric of Kashmiri life, creating a symbiotic relationship between the community and its culinary heritage. The Kandur is not merely a provider of sustenance but also a cornerstone of Kashmiri culture. According to folklore among Kashmiri Pandits, the Kandur is believed to carry the blessings of Lal Ded, the revered saint who, as legend has it, once sought refuge in a baker’s oven. Whether or not this tale holds historical truth, the respect and affection for the Kandur remain steadfast.
However, this cherished tradition is under threat due to rising costs. The price of tchot or baking roti, a staple in Kashmiri homes, has surged recently, stirring discontent among the locals. As bread is a daily necessity, the price hike has disproportionately affected households, especially those with limited financial resources.
A Heritage at Risk
For generations, the Kandur has been an integral part of Kashmiri life. These bakers begin their day in the early hours, crafting an assortment of breads such as tsot, lawas, and kulcha. Each variety carries its distinct taste and texture, embodying a rich culinary heritage.
Yet, the rising costs of raw materials and operational expenses pose a significant threat to this age-old tradition. The Kashmir Bread Makers and Bakers Union attributed the price increase to the escalating costs of essential baking ingredients like clarified butter and flour.
Feroz Ahmed, a resident of Srinagar, expressed his concern, stating, “Bread is a necessity for every Kashmiri household. The authorities must step in to prevent these price hikes from becoming a heavy burden on families.”
Waseem, another local, added, “Baking rotis are a fundamental part of our diet. If prices continue to rise, many families might struggle to afford them on a regular basis.”
The Bakers’ Perspective
The All Jammu Kashmir Kashmiri Bread Makers and Local Bakers Union defended the price adjustment, asserting that the decision was made after careful discussions with stakeholders and relevant authorities. The Union’s president explained that the Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA) department had been consulted and had sanctioned the revised pricing under SRO-300, a regulation that governs pricing and taxation in the region.
Despite these explanations, the public remains dissatisfied, viewing the increase as yet another financial strain in already challenging times.
Economic Pressures at Play
The issue of rising bread prices is indicative of broader economic challenges. The escalating costs of key ingredients such as refined flour, milk, and fuel have forced bakers to raise their prices. Additionally, increased operational expenses, including electricity bills and labor costs, have compounded the problem.
For Kandurs, maintaining the balance between tradition and economic viability has become increasingly difficult. While they strive to uphold the authenticity of their craft, the financial realities of running a bakery cannot be ignored.
The Need for Government Support
Many believe that government intervention is essential to mitigate this crisis. Subsidizing essential baking ingredients or offering financial assistance to Kandurs could ease the burden on both bakers and consumers.
Bashir Ahmad, a local resident, emphasized, “The government needs to regulate bread prices and provide support to traditional bakers. This isn’t just about affordability—it’s about preserving a significant aspect of our cultural identity.”
The Bakers Union has also appealed to the government, urging policymakers to recognize the vital role of Kandurs in Kashmiri society and to implement measures that protect their livelihoods.
Balancing Tradition and Modernity
The Kandur is far more than a bread maker; it is a guardian of Kashmir’s cultural and culinary legacy. Preserving this tradition in the face of economic challenges requires collective effort from all stakeholders—consumers, bakers, and government authorities alike.
Despite the current challenges, the morning ritual of visiting the local Kandur remains a cherished practice for many Kashmiris. The comforting aroma of freshly baked tchot wafting through the streets symbolizes resilience and cultural pride—a testament to the enduring bond between the Kandur and the community it serves.
In navigating the delicate balance between tradition and economic pressures, one thing remains certain: the Kandur is an irreplaceable part of Kashmiri life, deserving of support and preservation for generations to come.
(The author is an Admin Manager in one of the multi-national company you can reach him via email badr786@gmail۔com)
