In Kashmir, a unique passion soars high above the politically turbulent landscape: homing-pigeon fancying. For enthusiasts ranging from teenagers to octogenarians, this royal hobby has evolved into a multifaceted activity encompassing sport, entertainment, and even a niche business, offering a welcome distraction from the daily challenges of life in the region. These Kashmiris proudly rear, breed, and fly these birds, often calling them the "racehorses of the sky".
Syeedna Ismail Hussain Banday, an engineer and owner of over 300 pigeons in downtown Srinagar, describes it as a royal hobby that has found a home among commoners. Banday cherishes his collection of literature on pigeon rearing, breeding, flying, and racing, which tells the story of how Babar acquired thousands of pairs of pigeons upon his arrival in India to establish the Mughal kingdom.
The tradition of pigeon keeping is deeply rooted in Kashmir’s culture. Noted Kashmiri poet and historian Zareef Ahmad Zareef, who has followed pigeon racing for decades, mentions that Kashmiris adopted this sport from Punjab. Once, every Friday morning, around 50 pigeon fanciers from across the valley would gather at Kak Mohalla in Nowhatta to trade pigeons. The arrival of summer signals the start of pigeon racing season, a sport experiencing a resurgence in popularity in the Kashmir Valley.
In Srinagar, pigeon markets are common sights where birds are sold, purchased, and exchanged. These include Malkhah, Chattabal, Sadakada, and Ranger stop. Every week, hundreds of pigeon fanciers congregate in a playground in Rainawari, downtown Srinagar, on Fridays and Sundays. This weekly gathering, known locally as "Guder," is not just a market but a communion of passion and brotherhood. Altaf Ahmad Sofi, a boutique owner and second-generation pigeon flier, describes it as a form of "unburdening".
Pigeon races are a thrilling spectacle. Judges attach stamps to the feathers of selected pigeons before the flight and monitor the race through binoculars. Sometimes, non-participating pigeons are flown to distract predators, reducing the threat to the racers. If a racer pigeon is hunted or wounded, it is removed from the race. Mohammad explains that familiarizing pigeons with their surroundings, known as 'homing', takes about 40 days, ensuring they safely return.
There are numerous pigeon species that fanciers love to rear, including roller pigeons, fantail pigeons, and homing pigeons. Homing pigeons are known for their ability to return to their nests and their flying skills over long distances, and were once used as messenger pigeons. Local Kashmiri pigeons, which include red and tajdar pigeons, are mostly reared in villages, requiring less attention and surviving independently. The cost of pigeons varies depending on the breed, with a pair typically costing between ₹2,000 to ₹3,000, but some pairs can fetch prices between ₹10,000 to ₹15,000.
Despite the volatile environment, pigeon fanciers remain dedicated to their birds. Amid armed conflict, pigeon keeping has grown, particularly in downtown Srinagar. Syeedna Ismail Hussain Banday cultivated pigeon keeping as a hobby and now professionally breeds pigeons. He states that these birds are an integral part of his life, teaching him patience and discipline.
Pyara Singh, an Indian breeder, spends his time trying to attract pigeons from across the border, highlighting the passion that transcends political boundaries. He confidently asserts that no border can stop pigeons from flying freely.
For many in Kashmir, pigeon fancying is more than just a hobby; it is a way of life, providing a sense of pride, community, and escape. The dedication to these "racehorses of the sky" showcases the enduring spirit and cultural richness of Kashmir.
