Rain and snow on the first day of Chillai-Kalaan is locally seen as a good omen and a precursor to plenty of snow. A dry winter last year caused severe problems for residents of the Kashmir Valley and tourism industry players.
The Chillai-Kalaan (big cold) period will end on January 30. It will be followed by Chillai-Khurd (small cold) and Chillai-Bacha (baby cold).
Photographs curated by Anant Salvi/Rediff
Feature Presentation: Mahipal Soni/Rediff