By:Rashid Farooq Reshi Kehnusa, Bandipora
Kehnusa is a village located in the Bandipora district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It lies in the northern part of the Kashmir Valley and is situated approximately 12 kilometers away from the district headquarters, Bandipora. The village is known for its scenic beauty, surrounded by lush green fields, hills, and natural landscapes, which make it an attractive destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts.
Geography and Climate:
Kehnusa is located at an altitude of about 1,580 meters (5,180 feet) above sea level. The village has a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with temperatures often dipping below freezing, accompanied by snowfall. Summers are relatively mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 15°C to 30°C. The village experiences a moderate level of precipitation, especially during the monsoon months.
The area is part of the larger Bandipora region, which is known for its rich natural resources, including water bodies like the Wular Lake, one of Asia's largest freshwater lakes. Kehnusa is positioned amidst mountainous terrain and verdant meadows, offering picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
Demographics:
Kehnusa is primarily inhabited by Muslims, with the population engaged in agriculture, animal husbandry, and small-scale business activities. The village has a strong community-based culture, with people living in extended family units. The majority of the residents rely on agriculture for their livelihood, with crops such as paddy, maize, and vegetables being grown in the fertile land.
The population of Kehnusa, like much of Bandipora, has grown steadily in recent years, driven by migration from other areas in search of better living conditions. Despite the rural setting, the village has witnessed improvements in basic infrastructure, such as road connectivity, healthcare, and education.
Culture and Traditions:
Kehnusa, like other villages in the Kashmir Valley, has a rich cultural heritage. The people of Kehnusa observe traditional Kashmiri customs and practices, with local festivals, music, and dance playing an important role in the community life. The Kashmiri language, particularly the Kashmiri dialect, is widely spoken, though Urdu and Hindi are also understood and used in daily communication.
The village celebrates various religious and cultural festivals, including Eid, Ramadan, and the local New Year, which are marked by prayers, feasts, and community gatherings. Traditional Kashmiri cuisine, including dishes like Rogan Josh, Yakhni, and Gushtaba, is a significant part of the village's cultural identity.
Economy:
Agriculture forms the backbone of Kehnusa’s economy, with the majority of the population involved in farming. The fertile land allows for the cultivation of a variety of crops, such as rice, maize, wheat, and vegetables. In addition to crop cultivation, animal husbandry, particularly the rearing of sheep, goats, and cattle, is a common practice among the villagers.
In recent years, there has been a gradual shift toward small-scale businesses and entrepreneurship, with people setting up shops and services to cater to local demand. However, many villagers continue to rely on agriculture as their primary source of income. The economic growth of Kehnusa is further supported by its proximity to Bandipora town, which provides access to broader markets and trade opportunities.
Education and Infrastructure:
Kehnusa is home to several primary and secondary schools that cater to the educational needs of the local children. While the educational infrastructure in the village has improved over the years, there is still a need for better facilities, especially for higher education. Students often travel to Bandipora or Srinagar for advanced studies.
The village is connected to Bandipora and other neighboring areas through a network of roads. However, transportation infrastructure is still under development, and some remote areas within Kehnusa may not have immediate access to paved roads. The local government has made efforts to improve road connectivity, as well as access to electricity, water supply, and healthcare services.
Tourism:
Due to its scenic beauty, Kehnusa has potential for tourism, though it remains a relatively unexplored area compared to other parts of Jammu and Kashmir. The surrounding hills, rivers, and forests offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. Additionally, its proximity to Wular Lake makes it a potential spot for eco-tourism and adventure tourism in the future.
Conclusion:
Kehnusa is a tranquil village in the Bandipora district of Jammu and Kashmir, known for its natural beauty, cultural richness, and agricultural livelihood. While the village continues to evolve with modern infrastructure and economic growth, it retains its traditional charm and way of life, making it an integral part of the Kashmiri landscape. With ongoing improvements in infrastructure and tourism potential, Kehnusa is poised to play a more prominent role in the region’s development.
