Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is witnessing the return of the tonga, a traditional horse-drawn carriage, to its streets after a hiatus of several decades. This revival is largely driven by individuals like 70-year-old Ghulam Rasool Kumar, who has brought back his old tonga, seeking a livelihood and aiming to preserve a piece of the city’s fading heritage.
The Chenab Times has learned that with limited alternative employment opportunities, Kumar has chosen to return to his decades-old profession. His endeavor is not only about earning a living but also about keeping a diminishing tradition alive in the bustling city.
The tonga, once a ubiquitous mode of transport in Srinagar, was gradually phased out with the advent of modern vehicles. For generations, it served as a primary means of commuting and commerce, deeply embedded in the socio-economic fabric of the city. Its return, albeit on a smaller scale, signifies a yearning for the past and a recognition of the cultural significance of such traditional carriers.
Ghulam Rasool Kumar’s decision reflects a common challenge faced by artisans and practitioners of traditional crafts across India, where economic pressures often force a shift away from heritage professions. However, Kumar’s determination highlights a parallel sentiment of cultural preservation, where individuals strive to maintain practices that define their identity and history.
The reintroduction of the tonga also presents an opportunity for local authorities and tourism bodies to explore avenues for promoting heritage tourism. By integrating traditional elements like the tonga into the city’s tourism offerings, Srinagar can enhance its unique appeal to visitors seeking authentic cultural experiences. This could involve designated routes or special heritage tours, ensuring the viability of the profession for its practitioners.
The sentimental value attached to the tonga is significant for many residents of Srinagar who grew up with its presence. It evokes memories of a simpler time and represents a tangible link to the city’s past. The sight of a tonga can trigger nostalgia, reminding people of a period before the rapid pace of urbanization and modernization transformed the urban landscape.
The economic realities for those operating tongas have always been challenging, often dependent on the goodwill of passengers and the volume of local and tourist traffic. Kumar’s initiative, therefore, requires support to ensure its sustainability. This could potentially involve government schemes aimed at supporting traditional livelihoods or community-based initiatives to patronize these heritage services.
The revival of the tonga in Srinagar is more than just an economic undertaking; it is a cultural statement. It underscores the importance of recognizing and supporting traditional professions that contribute to the unique character of a city. As Ghulam Rasool Kumar navigates the streets with his horse-drawn carriage, he is not just transporting passengers but also carrying forward a legacy, a testament to the enduring spirit of tradition in a rapidly changing world.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
