A Day into the World of Lotus Stem (Nadur) Harvesters of Kashmir

March 1, 2021 by News Desk

Ghulam Mohammad Latoo and his team. Photo: Mehran Bhat~ The Kashmiriyat

Mehran Bhat

Lotus stem, locally known as “ Nadur” is grown in different water bodies across Kashmir, mainly in the Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake, Anchar Lake and Manasbal Lake. Lotus stem (Nadru) is one of the famous Kashmiri dishes, used in homes and the world-famous Kashmiri cuisine- Wazwaan.

The season of harvesting Lotus stem (Nadru) starts in September.

Lotus Stems (Nadru) Photo: Mehran Bhat~ The Kashmiriyat

Harvesting Lotus stem (Nadru) is not an easy job as it needs patience and experience. It takes almost 2-3 years for fresher to learn the art of harvesting Lotus stem (Nadru).

Ghulam Mohamad Latoo (75) who is in this business for the past 50 years said: ” I am happy with my work and I will continue this till my last breath”. Latoo said we harvest Lotus Stem (Nadru) of 4-5 lacs per season sometimes it goes up to 10 lacs per season.

Ghulam Mohammad Latoo posing for a picture with his men. Photo: Mehran Bhat~ The Kashmiriyat

Latoo further added that Lotus Stems (Nadru) have different categories and are sold at different prices staring from 150-800Rs, depending upon the quality.

A man holding freshly collected Lotus Stems (Nadru) from the interiors of Dal lake. Photo: Mehran Bhat~ The Kashmiriyat

Latoo while speaking to The Kashmiriyat said ” Pollution around Dal Lake has not only affected our business but it is posing threat to the inhabitants of Lake”.

A man busy in Harvesting Lotus stems (Nadru) Photo: Mehran Bhat~ The Kashmiriyat

Ghulam Mohammad Latoo stressed that govt should pay proper attention to the cleanness of Dal Lake interiors so that they can go on with their business without any hindrance.