Opinion | Warnow in Lolab: A Village of Significance

Nestled in the northern upper reaches of Lolab, the village of Warnow has a significance that resonates far and wide. One cannot speak of Warnow without mentioning the revered saint, Allama Anwar Shah Kashmiri, who hails from this very place, known and respected across the world. May Allah bestow His mercy upon his soul.

Warnow, while technically a small habitation, is often used to refer to a cluster of villages that thrive in its vicinity, including Warnow itself, Shahabad, Kainaar, Aafan, and Rang. What sets Warnow apart is its crystal-clear stream, which meanders through numerous villages, serving as the lifeline for extensive agricultural cultivation. Perched at a high altitude, the village offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire Potnai Valley.

The inhabitants of Warnow are a diverse mix of Kashmiri-speaking and Pahari-speaking people. The majority of them are deeply rooted in agriculture, tilling the fertile lands that owe their prosperity to the flowing waters. Additionally, a few locals are engaged in the business of walnut kernels, given the region’s abundant production of this valuable crop. The towering, dense mountains enveloping the area provide sustenance for many, as they rely on the rich vegetation that thrives there.

Education plays a pivotal role in the development of Warnow and its neighboring villages. The area boasts a higher secondary school, half a dozen middle schools, and as many primary schools, collectively working towards the enlightenment of the masses. The younger generation of this region is increasingly inclined toward education and sports, embodying a progressive spirit.

A distinctive feature of Warnow is its traditional logwood houses, which continue to be a common sight, reflecting a connection to age-old architectural practices. In the heart of Warnow beats a simple yet profound ethos: a life of simplicity and a penchant for noble thoughts. The inhabitants of this village find their greatness not in opulence but in their values, traditions, and their ability to cherish the beauty of the natural world that surrounds them.

The climatic diversity of Warnow is undeniably one of its most striking attributes. Spring, summer, and autumn in this village are marked by the pleasant embrace of abundant rainfall. The cascading rainwater flows through the stream, quenching the thirst of extensive agricultural lands, ensuring a prosperous harvest for the area downwards. The unpredictability of rain in Warnow adds an element of surprise to its weather patterns. It seems that even a small plume of cloud passing by is enough to trigger a sudden shower, reminding the villagers of the ever-changing nature of their environment. This sporadic rainfall is a blessing for the area.

However, when winter descends upon Warnow, it undergoes a dramatic transformation. The village is blanketed in a thick layer of snow, turning it into a serene winter wonderland. The quietude of the snowy landscape creates a unique and enchanting atmosphere, contrasting sharply with the vibrancy of the other seasons.

The seasonal cycle in Warnow, from the lushness of spring to the warmth of summer and the colorful embrace of autumn to the tranquility of winter, adds yet another layer to the village’s charm. It is a testament to the ever-changing beauty of nature that graces this remarkable place throughout the year.

– The writer is a teacher by profession and teaches at GHSS Sogam. He can be reached at suhaelabrar@gmail.com