JOURNEYING THROUGH JAMMU!

On the banks of River Tawi, this city is reviving its cultural identity by embracing its local traditions

- PRAMITI DIGRA

While Jammu city’s name keeps splashing on news channels now and then, very little is known about its native culture and people. Contrary to the common assumption, the city is actually home to diverse ethnic groups, with the Dogris being a large native population. Over the decades the state of Jammu and Kashmir has come to be known for the Kashmiri pashmina and their flavour packed Wazwan. however, that is only one chapter of a more elaborate story of the region. it becomes essential to acknowledge the other half, which remains unexplored. To truly experience Jammu city one needs to experience its people and the diverse cultures that coexist within its radius. Dogra culture adds a very subtle and sweet layer to the city with its unique food flavours, vibrant attire, lively music and softspoken language every culture is best introduced by its food traditions, in the dogri cuisine one can find Khatta Meat (lamb meat with tangy notes), Ambal (sweet and sour pumpkin curry) and Gheur (a dish resembling pancakes often served with curd and jaggery). To taste the authentic flavours of these dishes old-school local eateries are the best for example Sharma hotel or Rawal Pindi Sweet house where they also serve other delicacies like Rajma Rice and Kalari Kulcha (a regional specialty made from buffalo milk cheese).