Why in news?
Chillai Kalan, the 40-day period of harshest winter in Kashmir, began on December 21, 2025, bringing snowfall to higher reaches and rain to plains after a prolonged dry spell.​​
About Chillai Kalan
- Derived from Persian words: Chilla = forty, Kalan = major.
- Literally means “major forty days of cold”.
- Part of Kashmiri traditional calendar of winter phases.
Sequence of Periods
Chillai Kalan is followed by Chillai Khurd and Chillai Bachha. Together, these form Kashmir's extended winter phases.​
Duration
- Chillai Kalan: 21 Dec – 31 Jan (40 days, harshest cold).
- Chillai Khurd (small cold): 20 days (30 Jan – 18 Feb).
- Chillai Bacha (baby cold): 10 days (19 Feb – 28 Feb).
Socio-Economic Impact
- Tourism: Skiing and winter tourism peak in Gulmarg; Chillai Kalan is a travel favourite.
- Agriculture: Fields remain snow-covered; traditional winter crops are limited.
- Daily Life: Heating demand rises, traditional kangri (fire pot) used widely.
- Governance: Snow clearance, road connectivity, and power supply become critical challenges.
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