As an artist and writer with The Chenab Times, I’m passionate about sharing cultural gems like “Khanmouj,” a Kashmiri term overflowing with affection specifically used for daughters.
From the moment a daughter is born, parents in Kashmir dedicate themselves to her well-being, showering her with love and raising her with the utmost care. This stems from the awareness that one day, their daughter will become the cornerstone of a new home. “Khanmouj” beautifully encapsulates this bittersweet sentiment – a daughter cherished within her own home and destined to become the center of another.
In Kashmiri culture, “khanmouj” is a term overflowing with affection specifically used for daughters. It transcends a mere definition, becoming a symbol of the unique bond between parents and their cherished daughters.
While literally translating to “home” (“khan”) and “mother” (“mouj”), “khanmouj” embodies a much deeper significance. It acknowledges a daughter’s special place as both the center of her parents’ world and a future pillar of another household.
Kashmiri parents shower their daughters with love and care, nurturing them with the utmost dedication. This stems from the awareness that one day, their daughter will become the cornerstone of a new home. “Khanmouj” beautifully encapsulates this bittersweet sentiment.
An Enduring Legacy of Love
The word “khanmouj” transcends generations, serving as a bridge connecting past, present, and future. It carries the weight of tradition, ensuring that this expression of love remains ever-present in Kashmiri families.
Despite the growing influence of Western culture, “khanmouj” continues to resonate with Kashmiris. It is a powerful testament to the enduring strength of cultural identity and the irreplaceable role of language in expressing love.
A Father’s Pride
A most used sentence by a kashmiri father is “yi cha meh khanmouj koor” (“This is my dearest daughter”) which exemplifies the deep paternal pride embedded in “khanmouj.” It’s a declaration that transcends words, a proclamation of a father’s love for his daughter. This illustrates the profound emotional weight carried by “khanmouj” within Kashmiri families.
A Daughter’s Perspective
As a daughter myself, I’ve grown up surrounded by the warmth of Kashmiri love. While I wasn’t addressed by the specific term “khanmouj,” the essence of it – the unconditional love, the unwavering support, and the deep bond between a daughter and her parents – permeated every aspect of my upbringing. This experience instilled a deep appreciation for the cultural richness of Kashmir and the significance of words like “khanmouj” in preserving that heritage.
A Call for Equal Love
It is important to emphasize that every child deserves equal love and respect from their parents. While terms of endearment can hold significance, what truly matters is the unwavering love and support a parent provides to all their children.
The future of “khanmouj” may lie in its continued use within Kashmiri households. By consciously incorporating this beautiful word into their expressions of love, parents can ensure that this cultural gem endures for generations to come.
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Nida Javaid is an artist based in Srinagar who primarily works with The Chenab Times. He is known on Instagram as Nida Art Gallery.
