Chenabi
چنابی | |
|---|---|
| Total population | |
| 1 million (2011 census) | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
| Chenab Valley, Jammu and Kashmir, India | |
| Languages | |
| Kashmiri(majority), Bhaderwahi, Kishtwari, Sarazi, Poguli, Urdu, Gojri | |
| Religion | |
| Predominantly Islam; with significant Hindu minority | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| Kashmiris, Pahari people, Gujjars |
The Chenabi or Chenabis (Urdu: چنابی) are the people native to the Chenab Valley in the Jammu Division of Jammu and Kashmir, India. The Chenab Valley encompasses the districts of Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban. The region is named after the Chenab River, which flows through it, and is known for its stunning mountainous landscapes and cultural diversity.[1]
Name
[change | change source]The term Chenabi refers to the unique dialect and cultural identity of the Chenab Valley in the Jammu region of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It was popularized by Anzer Ayoob, founder of The Chenab Times, who sought to highlight the distinctiveness of the language and people of the region. Often referred to as a linguistic blend influenced by Bhaderwahi, Sarazi, and Kishtwari, Chenabi encapsulates the cultural heritage and shared experiences of approximately 500,000 speakers in the area.[2]
Demographics
[change | change source]The population of the Chenab Valley is ethnically diverse, comprising groups that speak a variety of languages and dialects, including Bhaderwahi, Kishtwari, Sarazi, Poguli, Urdu, Kashmiri, and Gojri. The majority of the Chenabi people are Muslims, while a significant proportion adhere to Hinduism.[1][3]
Geography
[change | change source]The Chenab Valley is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas, characterized by steep valleys, dense forests, and the Chenab River, which serves as the lifeline of the region. The area's terrain and climate play a significant role in shaping the lifestyle and culture of its people.[4][5][6]
Culture
[change | change source]The Chenabi culture is a blend of Islamic and Hindu traditions, which coexist in harmony despite historical challenges. Traditional music, dance forms, and folklore reflect the unique identity of the region.[4]
Language
[change | change source]The Chenabis are multilingual, with several dialects specific to the region, such as Kashmiri, Bhaderwahi, Kishtwari, Sarazi, and Poguli. Urdu serves as the lingua franca, facilitating communication across linguistic groups. While Kashmiri is spoken in a different way which is often known as Chenabi Kashmiri.[5]
Religion
[change | change source]Religion plays a significant role in the lives of Chenabis. The majority of the population practices Islam, primarily of the Sunni sect, while a considerable number of people follow Hinduism.[4][5]
Notable people
[change | change source]- Maryam Begum, Chenabi philanthropist and chairperson of Chenab Times Foundation.[7]
References
[change | change source]- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Ayoob, Anzer (22 November 2023). "Embracing Chenabi: Unveiling the Heartbeat of the Chenab Valley". The Chenab Times. Retrieved 24 November 2024.
- ↑ Ayoob, Anzer (29 April 2024). "Whispers in the Valley: Unveiling the Enigma I Coined". The Chenab Times. Retrieved 19 January 2025.
- ↑ Ayoob, Anzer (30 June 2024). "Whispers in the Valley: Unveiling the enigma I coined". JK MONITOR. Retrieved 24 November 2024.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 Ayoob, Anzer (24 November 2023). "Chenabi: Why We Choose This Term for Our Unique Identity". The Bold Voice. Archived from the original on 25 November 2023. Retrieved 24 November 2024.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 "Chenabi Kashmiris: A community in the heart of the Himalayas". Brighter Kashmir. 21 August 2024. Retrieved 24 November 2024.
- ↑ "Chenabi People Determined to Show the Way Forward: Firdous Tak". 25 August 2024. Archived from the original on 4 September 2024. Retrieved 25 November 2024.
- ↑ "Chenab Times Foundation Celebrates First Anniversary". Today News Line JK. 23 August 2022. Retrieved 5 February 2025.