Nestled amidst the towering Himalayas, where the majestic Chenab River carves its path, there whispers a word, “Zuv.” On the surface, a simple term for “soul,” it burrows deeper within the Chenabi version of Kashmiri, morphing into a powerful expression of companionship.
My own story with Zuv began in the bustling corridors of Government Degree College Bhaderwah. Back then, in the boisterous third semester of 2017, our friend circle buzzed with a unique camaraderie. We weren’t just classmates; we were a lifeline for each other.
“Zuv” is not a mere term; it’s a lifeline, a whispered promise between friends. It signifies the one you confide in, the one whose presence steadies you in life’s storms. Unlike the formal “dost” (friend), Zuv carries an intimacy, a recognition of the other as an anchor for your well-being.
Our conversations were peppered with Zuv. A simple “Zuv kaisa hai?” (How are you, my lifeline?) wasn’t just a question about physical well-being; it delved deeper, inquiring about the emotional state of the other. “Kider hai Zuv?” (Where are you, my lifeline?) wasn’t a query about location; it was a yearning to connect, a silent plea for their presence.
And then there was the declaration, the one that sent a warm wave through our hearts – “Tu Zuv hai Yaar!” (You’re my lifeline, friend!). It wasn’t a statement of dependence, but a profound acknowledgement of the irreplaceable role they played in our lives. Zuv wasn’t just a word; it was a pact, a promise to be there for each other, a shoulder to cry on, a hand to hold through life’s uncertainties.
My journey with Zuv extended beyond the confines of college. In 2017, when the embers of journalistic passion ignited within me, I gave birth to The Chenab Times, a platform to amplify the voices of our valley. As my articles found space in national and international publications, I carried the essence of Zuv with me. It became a reminder of the strength that resides in genuine connections, a testament to the power of community.
Zuv may be a word specific to our corner of the world, but the sentiment it embodies resonates universally. We all yearn for those lifelines, the ones who make life’s journey a little less daunting. So, the next time you find yourself surrounded by loved ones, take a moment to acknowledge them, to express your gratitude for their presence in your life. You never know, your heartfelt words might become their Zuv.
This is just a glimpse into the world of Zuv, a word steeped in the rich tapestry of Chenabi culture. There’s a melody in its pronunciation, a warmth in its embrace. As a journalist and a son of the Chenab Valley, I will continue to explore the nuances of our language, to unearth the stories woven within its words, and share them with the world.
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Anzer Ayoob is the Founder and Chief Editor to The Chenab Times
