Seharkhans, Traditional Ramzan Drum Beaters In Kashmir, Keep Tradition Alive Amid Phone Alarm Threat – News18

Last Updated:March 22, 2025, 22:19 IST

Seharkhans, the traditional drum-beaters in Kashmir, have been waking people up in the month of Ramzan for Sehri for years.

Seharkhan in Kashmir (PTI Image)

As the holy month of Ramzan is underway, traditional drummers, known as Seharkhans in Kashmir, have been carrying out their job of waking up those keeping fast for the pre-dawn meal called Sehri, while also battling to survive as phone alarms threaten their existence.

A traditional drum beater in Bhaderwah said that the process is a ritual of worship that has been going on for centuries.

“Today there are mobiles, TV, alarm, but people say that without Seharkhans rituals are incomplete. This is a month of worship. This is a tradition of brotherhood and extending greetings,” he told news agency ANI.

In today’s world of technology, where many people use alarms on their gadgets, these traditional drum beaters still carry on their old customs.

The holy month of Ramzan, which lasts for 30 days of fasting, began on March 2. It ends with Eid-Ul-Fitr, a festival that marks the completion of the month-long fast from dawn to sunset.

(With inputs from agencies)

Location :

Jammu and Kashmir, India, India