Agriculture
The majority of people in valley Samahni own land which needs to be cultivated on a regular basis for their own livelihood. On a typical working day in the valley, men and women of all ages can be observed working along side one another to maintain their land, with women only being responsible for jobs that are within their threshold i.e.) cutting the crops, tending cattle, etc.
Traditionally wheat and maize are the main crops produced each year in their respective seasons. Bajra (millet) is also cultivated on a smaller scale mainly to provide food for cattle. In addition to this, villagers grow an array of vegetables and exquisite herbs for their daily requirements. Animals such as cows, buffalos, goats and sheep are kept in the household to provide for various needs. With the introduction of modern machinery in the valley, farming has become relatively easier. Despite this advantage, the younger generation of today struggle to cope with the hardships of certain agricultural practices. This reflects the changes in society and in priorities; which has lead to an extra pressure on the senior members of the families.
The following pictures show a normal working day in the valley.
Costume
The costume worn in the valley is very much similar to one in the Punjab. A simple salwar kameez sewn by the local tailor is still a favourite among both the genders. Readymade garments are also becoming a trend. Most of the young men have a taste for the shirts and trousers while older generation sticks to more traditional look. Tehband and Pagri however are getting out of the fashion and are rarely seen worn by the people.
Is this a goodbye to tradition?
Festivals
The Valley does not have any special festivals of its own, but all the major religious festivals are celebrated with a great pump and show. The Eid festivals are the most waited for. Both the Eid prayers are performed in the local mosques followed by a group visit to the relatives for Dua and meals. Young and old alike wear new clothes to look their best. Young children are often seen counting their Eid money and buying sweet and toys. Eid Melad-un-Nabi (birthday of the prophet pbuh) is also celebrated with a great enthusiasm. People from the neighbouring areas arrive in the form of rallies in the local mosques to take part in celebrations and to listen to the scholars. Shab-e- Barat is celebrated almost fortnight prior to the month of Ramadan with an extraordinary display of firework and crackers. The celebration of Shab-e-Barat in this fashion might have deep roots in the culture, it completely lacks the backing of the religion.
Eid dinner being served!
