An event titled “International Pheran Day” is being observed in Srinagar, aiming to promote Kashmir’s traditional winter attire, the Pheran, among the younger generation.
The auditions for the event, widely covered by sections of the media, attracted modeling aspirants from across the region on Thursday.
While the initiative aimed to highlight Kashmiri culture, it drew sharp criticism for failing to reflect the essence of the tradition as none of the participants were seen wearing Pheran.
The main event is scheduled for December 21, coinciding with the onset of Chillai Kalan, the harshest 40-day winter period in Kashmir. Videos from the auditions have gone viral on social media platforms, with prominent news organizations sharing clips and engaging millions of viewers. Despite the buzz, the absence of participants wearing Pherans sparked widespread outrage.
Critics on social media were quick to point out the irony. Junaid Afzal wrote, “On International Pheran Day, what have these ninni nibaas presented? I pity the organizers, the administration, and the audience! If you lack the audacity to wear a Pheran, let others try. Our culture is not about showing body parts but covering the whole body with the Pheran!”
Another user, Dar Nasir, commented on Facebook, “You are promoting English culture in the name of Kashmir. We Kashmiris respect all traditions, but we will not compromise on our own culture.”
While some responses mocked the participants, others viewed the issue through a religious lens. However, Mir Abid, a social science professor from Anantnag, believes the issue is nuanced and requires deeper analysis.
“The decline of the Pheran is an elite, urban discourse. In rural areas, the tradition remains unscathed and unharmed as it always has been,” Mir told The Kashmiriyat. He added that only 27% of Kashmir’s population lives in urban areas, but public discourse is disproportionately dominated by urban elites.
“Unfortunately, rural narratives barely find representation. Most journalists and media professionals from rural areas move to Srinagar for better opportunities, leaving rural issues underreported. The Pheran is not a decline. Yes, urban kids may be a little ashamed of wearing it, but in rural areas, nobody is willing to give it up,” Mir said.
Despite the criticisms, some participants defended the event’s purpose. Shahid, one of the aspirants, emphasized the goal of making the Pheran a global product. “We can innovate to make the Pheran more appealing for modern times. Replacing jackets with Pherans could revive its usage and significance,” he said.
Nasir Ali Khan, one of the organizers, explained the broader vision of the event. “The final auditions for International Pheran Day saw participation from districts like Srinagar, Baramulla, Pulwama, Shopian, Budgam, and Ganderbal. The aim is to preserve and revive the Pheran while also promoting the immense talent of Kashmiri modeling aspirants,” he said.
While the debate over cultural authenticity rages on, the event has sparked renewed interest in Kashmir’s traditional attire and its role in modern identity.
This Story is not edited by Team The KashPost