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Ganderbal : In the picturesque valley of Kashmir, where mountains meet rivers and lush greenery spreads across the land, lies a village that marries spirituality with agriculture. Repora, a serene village nestled in the Lar Block of Central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, is a place where the whispers of history blend seamlessly with the vibrant present. Known for its deep spiritual roots, being home to the revered Sofi Saints Shah Sahib Qalander and Shah Namatulah Wali (RAH), Repora is also celebrated for something equally divine—its flourishing grape cultivation.
Repora’s history is steeped in spirituality. The village has long been a center of Sufism, attracting followers and pilgrims who come to pay their respects at the shrines of Shah Sahib Qalander and Shah Namatulah Wali (RAH). These saints, revered for their teachings of love, peace, and devotion, have left an indelible mark on the village. The locals believe that the blessings of these saints are the secret behind the prosperity of their grape cultivation.
The connection between Repora’s grape cultivation and its spiritual heritage is more than just symbolic. The villagers attribute the success and growth of their vineyards to the divine blessings they receive from the saints. According to local lore, it is these blessings that protect the vineyards from natural calamities and ensure that the grapes grow with exceptional quality and taste. The villagers, in their quiet humility, often say that without the saints’ grace, their fields would not be as bountiful.
Repora is renowned for producing two primary varieties of grapes: Hussani and Sahibi. These grapes are not just crops; they are a legacy passed down through generations. The Hussani variety, which was introduced from Iran, is known for its rich, full-bodied flavor. It is a robust grape, deep in color, and carries a taste that is both sweet and slightly tangy. The *Sahibi* grape, on the other hand, was imported from Hyderabad and has its own distinct characteristics. It is lighter in color, with a sweetness that lingers on the palate, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The cultivation of these grapes is a meticulous process. The vineyards are carefully tended to by the villagers, who use traditional methods passed down from their ancestors. The soil is treated with natural fertilizers, and the vines are pruned by hand, ensuring that each grape receives the right amount of sunlight and nutrients. This dedication to maintaining traditional farming practices is what sets Repora’s grapes apart from others in the region.
The fame of Repora’s grapes is not a recent phenomenon. Their reputation can be traced back to the times of Maharaja Rai Bahadur Thakur Janak Sing, a prominent figure in the history of Kashmir. It is said that a villager from Repora once gifted a basket of these grapes to the Maharaja’s Military General. The General, struck by the exceptional taste and quality of the grapes, became an ardent admirer of Repora’s produce.
So impressed was the General that he decided to build a bungalow in the village to be closer to the source of these remarkable grapes. The bungalow, known locally as Bungli Bagh, became a symbol of the village’s burgeoning reputation. Though the building has since fallen into ruins, with only remnants of its structure remaining, the story of the General’s admiration for Repora’s grapes continues to be a point of pride for the villagers.
The anecdote of Bungli Bagh is often recounted by the elders of Repora, who see it as a testament to the enduring legacy of their village’s produce. It serves as a reminder of the village’s historical significance and the high regard in which its grapes have been held for centuries.
In the present day, the grapes of Repora continue to be highly valued in the market. The Sahibi variety, with its delicate sweetness and appealing texture, commands a price of Rs 250 per kilogram. The Hussani grapes, known for their robust flavor and deep color, are sold at Rs 100 per kilogram. These prices reflect not only the quality of the grapes but also the hard work and dedication of the villagers who cultivate them.
Grape cultivation is a significant source of livelihood for the people of Repora. The income generated from the sale of these grapes supports the local economy, allowing the villagers to maintain their traditional way of life while also meeting the demands of modern living. Many families in the village have been involved in grape farming for generations, and the knowledge and skills required to grow these grapes are passed down from one generation to the next.
The market for Repora’s grapes extends beyond the local region, with traders and buyers coming from different parts of Kashmir and even beyond to purchase these prized fruits. The high demand for Repora’s grapes during the harvest season brings a sense of pride and accomplishment to the villagers, who see their hard work pay off in the form of good prices and positive feedback from buyers.
Repora’s grapes are more than just a crop; they are a symbol of the village’s cultural and agricultural heritage. The cultivation of these grapes represents a harmonious blend of tradition and spirituality, where the blessings of saints and the hard work of the villagers come together to create something truly special.
As Repora continues to thrive as a center of grape cultivation, it also serves as a reminder of the rich agricultural traditions that have been preserved in Kashmir over the centuries. The village stands as an example of how a community can maintain its cultural identity and agricultural practices while adapting to the changing times.
In conclusion, Repora village in Ganderbal is a unique place where spirituality and agriculture coexist in perfect harmony. The village’s grapes, nurtured by the blessings of saints and the dedication of the villagers, have earned a reputation for their exceptional quality and taste. As the village continues to grow and evolve, its grapes remain a testament to the enduring legacy of Repora’s cultural and agricultural heritage.
