In Kashmir, the arrival of Ramzan brings with it the Seharkhwans — the drum-beaters who wake the community for the pre-dawn meal, ‘Sehri.’ These men, hailing from remote villages, continue an age-old tradition, even amidst the widespread use of modern gadgets like mobile phones and alarm clocks. For generations, their drumbeats have signaled the time for Sehri, a crucial meal for those fasting throughout the day.
Mohammad Shafi Mir, a Barzulla resident, emphasizes the significance of the Seharkhwans during Ramzan. “Ramzan is full of challenges. After completing the taraweeh (late-night prayers) around 10:30 pm, we sleep only to wake up in four hours for Sehri and Fajr (early morning) prayers. Unlike phone alarms, you can’t switch off their drumbeats,” he said.
Each Seharkhwan is assigned a specific territory, usually covering one or two mohallas. For some, it’s a livelihood; for others, it’s an act of devotion. Many of these drum-beaters eagerly await Ramzan, as their earnings during the month sustain their families for the entire year.
Abdul Majeed Khan, a Seharkhwan from Kalaroos in Kupwara district, shares that his work begins at 3 am and ends by 5 am. “We are from a remote area, and this work provides my livelihood. The earnings during Ramzan are far greater than my regular labor income,” he explains, adding that people generously reward them at the end of the month.
Mohammad Mehboob Khatana, who has been coming to Srinagar for 22 years every Ramzan, sees his work as both a way to provide for his family and earn a spiritual reward. “We wake people up for fasting, not just for income, but with the hope of a divine reward,” he says.
For Ghulam Rasool Payar, a veteran Seharkhwan of over 50 years, the primary motivation is serving others. “I do not ask for payment. The true reward lies with the Almighty,” he says, reflecting on his decades-long commitment to this sacred tradition.
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