Shehr-e-Khaas: Where Big Hearts Lived in Small Homes

THE SOUL OF SHEHR-E-KHAAS, HOWEVER, WASN'T CONFINED WITHIN THE FOUR WALLS OF HOMES. IT LIVED AND BREATHED IN THE COMMUNITY'S DAILY GATHERING SPOTS, THE WAANI PEND, KANDER WAAN, HAMAMS, AND NAID WAAN.

- SYED MAJID GILANI

There was a time, not too long ago, when life in Srinagar's Shehr-e-Khaas, the historic Downtown, moved with a gentle rhythm, simple, contented, and gracefully bound by a deep sense of togetherness. The narrow lanes, old wooden houses, bustling courtyards, and centuries-old mosques weren't merely structures of brick and stone, but living witnesses to a society where people's hearts were connected, where neighbours were part of one's own extended family. Though homes were modest and means limited, hearts were generous, and relationships sincere, built upon silent, unspoken understandings that only true communities possess.

In those days, society itself took responsibility for its people. Neighbours cared for one another, not to interfere, but because they genuinely felt for each other. It was natural for an elder to stop a boy or girl and ask where they were going, why they were out late, or how their parents were doing. No one took offence. These were questions asked from the heart, driven by concern and the desire to guide the younger generation along the right path.

One of the most beautiful aspects of that time was the way people shared not only their homes but their joys and sorrows. Whenever a special dish was prepared, Tehri, Halwa, Gaadi, Paachi, Houk Suen, or the winter delicacy Harisa, it was customary to share with the neighbouring homes. Not out of formality, but as a simple, affectionate gesture that said, "You are part of us." Festivals, weddings, and even small moments of happiness were celebrated together. No one hid their happiness behind doors, and no one bore sorrow alone.