Claims by many, on the rich land of Kashmir is clearly the reason to the rich and diverse culture of Kashmir.  The culture of Kashmir encompasses its traditions, people, their language, clothing, architecture and much more.  Initially Hinduism and Buddhism, later Islam due to Islamic invasion in Kashmir, we see a mix of Persian, Asian and Islamic world. Located in the northern part of the Indian sub-continent, it is renowned for its rich culture and heritage.  According to legend, an ascetic named Kashyapa reclaimed the land now comprising Kashmir from a vast lake.  The land came to be known as Kashya pamar and later Kashmir.  What divides Kashmir from rest of India and makes it stand out is its culture, which has a major influence of its geographical existence, clothing, fooding, architecture all peculiar and different from rest of India only due to its location.  Kashmir is predominantly inhabited by the Kashmiri Muslims and Kashmiri Pandits.  Due to its rich history, many dynasties ruled out and left their imprints behind to what is today known as Kashmir.   

The region’s music is largely influenced by Sufiana Kalam.  The type of music flourished under the Muslim rulers.  The music has a distinct style characterized by its soulful melodies and poetic lyrics.  Traditional musical instruments like the Santoor, Rabab and Tumbaknari are used.  Folk music of Kashmir like ‘Chokri’ mostly sung in weddings with instruments like Sarangi, harmonium. ‘Sufiana Kalam’ is the most recognized music of Kashmir, which is believed to be propagated here in 15^th century. ‘Wamwun’ is a classical form of music for Kashmiri Pandits, sang mostly on religious and festive occasions. Dance has always put life in lifeless and refreshed everyone.  So has it done to the Kashmiris.  It is a perfect expression of their festivities.  The traditional folk dances from Kashmir include Rouf, Hafiza and Bhand Pather, which are performed during festivals and special occasions. Famous for its aromatic flavours and the use of various species, Kashmir offers a true deliciousness to the world, which includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies.  Their dishes always leave you wanting more of it.  The popular dishes include Rogan Josh (a lamb Curry), Yakhni (a yogurt based meat curry), Dum Aloo (Spiced Potatoes Curry) and Kashmiri Pulao.

A center of attraction due to its art and craft, its handicraft shines throughout the world.  Kashmir and pashmina go hand in hand, which is known for its great texture and amazing material.  The softness and warmth tending of the shawl is what gives it its fame.  The carpets and hand knotted rugs specific to the region are a great depiction of the craftsmanship and their talent.  Embroidered textiles, paper products, wood work and copper work are other few attractions that reflect the intricate designs that has been passed down the generation to be witnessed by us today. Kashmir and its people celebrated a wide range of festivals that showcases their cultural diversity, joy and enthusiasm.  The most prominent festival which marks the end of Ramadan, a long fast, is Eid-ul-Fitr, which is celebrated with loads of enthusiasm.  Other festivals like Navroz, Lohri and Baisakhi are also observed.  The annual tulip festival in Srinagar featuring almost all varieties of tulip are on display in blooms, attracting visitors from around the world. Sufism, a mystical branch of Islam, has a significant influence on the culture of Kashmir.  The region has many sufi shrines, such as the shrine of Hazratbal and the Khangah-e-moula, where devotees gather to seek blessing and participate in Sufi music and poetic session to rejuvenate their souls.

The culture of Kashmir is a blend of multiple customs and come from Northern India, Northern Pakistan and the Chinese territory of Aksai chin.  The state enjoys the mix of religions and that’s why Kashmir is famous for its cultural heritage.  Apart from the above mentioned heads many other sectors such as occupation, costume, architecture and language enrich the culture.  Thus the difference from rest of India makes it unique and hence, promote the idea of ‘unity in diversity’ against the world.