AMBRI APPLE RISES AGAIN, How Dr. Zahoor Ahmed Bhat Brought Kashmir’s Heritage Fruit Back From The Brink

Once crowned as the treasured fruit of paradise, the Ambri Apple had nearly vanished from Kashmir's orchards until one dedicated scientist stepped forward as its savior.

- ZAMAN NOOR

In the beautiful valley of Kashmir, where apple orchards stretch as far as the eye can see, there once was a special apple that stood above all others, the Ambri this wasn't just any apple - it had a rich aroma that filled the room, could stay fresh for months and possessed a taste that was truly one-of-a-kind. For generations, the Ambri was Kashmir's pride.

But times changed. New apple varieties that grew faster and looked more appealing to buyers started taking over Kashmir's orchards. Little by little, the beloved Ambri began to disappear. Most people thought this special apple's time had simply passed, that it would become just a memory, a story told by grandparents about "the apple we used to have." However, one scientist refused to let this piece of Kashmir's heritage fade away.

Here comes the saviour of Ambri and being called The Ambri Man of Kashmir,

Dr. Zahoor Ahmad Bhat a horticulturist who was born and raised in the valley, Dr. Bhat understood something that others had missed, the Ambri apple wasn't just a fruit - it was part of Kashmir's soul as its heritage, a living connection to its past and a potential bridge to its future.

While others gave up on the Ambri, Dr. Bhat got to work. His mission became clear, save this rare apple from extinction. Today, after years of dedication, he is known throughout the region and respected by scientists across India as the "Ambri Man of Kashmir.”

What makes his story so remarkable is not just what he achieved, but how he achieved it.

Dr. Bhat journeyed through remote villages and climbed to high-altitude orchards, searching for surviving Ambri trees like a botanical detective. Each discovery was precious - another piece of living history saved, another chance to preserve this unique variety.