Kashmir, March 9,2026-As the holy month of Ramadan continues, the Kashmir Valley once again witnesses the revival of one of its most cherished traditions—Waqt-e-Sahar. In the quiet hours before dawn, the rhythmic beat of the dhol echoes through narrow lanes and neighborhoods, gently waking residents for Sehri, the pre-dawn meal before the day’s fast begins.
For generations, dedicated volunteers and traditional drummers have walked through localities in towns and villages across Kashmir, beating their drums and calling out to people to wake up for Sehri. The sound of the dhol cutting through the stillness of the night has become a familiar and comforting part of Ramadan mornings in the valley.
Residents say the tradition is not just about waking people for a meal; it reflects the strong sense of community and cultural heritage that defines Kashmiri society. Elderly residents recall how the practice existed long before modern alarm clocks and mobile phones, when these drummers played a vital role in ensuring that people woke up in time for Sehri.
Even today, despite technological conveniences, many communities continue to preserve the practice as a symbol of unity and tradition. Children often wait eagerly to hear the drumbeats, while families prepare their Sehri meals in anticipation of the dawn prayer.
Cultural observers note that Waqt-e-Sahar represents the living traditions of Kashmir during Ramadan—blending faith, community spirit, and heritage. As the dhol beats echo through the valley’s peaceful pre-dawn hours, they serve as a reminder of the enduring cultural richness of Kashmir.
In the heart of the valley, as lights turn on in homes and families gather around their Sehri tables, the timeless rhythm of Waqt-e-Sahar continues to keep the spirit of Ramadan alive in Kashmir.
