By: Danish Ashraf Khan
Today as a writer, I decide to write about my birthplace. This thought came to my mind many times before, but today I finally decided that I must write something about the place where I was born. This village is not just land for me. It is the place where I opened my eyes for the first time, where I learned how to walk, where I went to school, and where I spent the most beautiful days of my life. The name of my village is Bathnoor, and it is located in South Kashmir, around eight kilometers away from Tral town. Today, I am writing not just as a writer but as someone who carries the memories and love of his village in his heart every single day.
Bathnoor is a peaceful and natural village. It is a place full of greenery, fresh air, and good-hearted people. The village is surrounded by thick forests that make the whole area look calm and clean. These forests not only add beauty to our surroundings but also give us shade, wood, and a cool atmosphere even during hot days. These forests are one of the biggest reasons why people admire the natural charm of Bathnoor.
There are many smaller areas and neighborhoods that come under Bathnoor. These include places like Karmulla, Hergam, Bugmad Gojar Basti, and Basmani, among others. Each area has its own kind of people, its own stories, and its own way of life, but all of us live together with unity and respect.
Bathnoor is also known for having many mosques. In fact, there are around 20 small masjids in the whole village. Two beautiful Jamia Masjids are also present here, where people gather every Friday for prayers. It shows the religious feeling and unity among the people. Both Shia and Sunni communities live in Bathnoor, and they live peacefully and respectfully with each other. It is a symbol of togetherness and shows that differences in belief never stop people here from living like a family.
One thing that makes Bathnoor even more special is its Bugmad Top. It is a well-known spot in our area. Many people go there to relax, enjoy the view, and feel close to nature. The place gives peace of mind, especially during spring and summer when everything looks fresh and green. People from nearby villages also visit this place because of its natural beauty and calm surroundings.
In Bathnoor, people speak different languages. The most common language is Kashmiri, but many also speak Pahari, Gojri, and other local dialects. This shows how rich our culture is and how people from different backgrounds live together in harmony. There is always a spirit of acceptance and love among the villagers, no matter what language they speak or what community they belong to.
Though the roads inside the village are macadamized now, there is still a big dream that people have been waiting for. That dream is the road between Tral and Pahalgam through Bathnoor. Even after many years, this road is still not completed. If this road becomes a reality, it will change the future of our area. It will bring new development, tourism, and job opportunities not just for Bathnoor but for the whole Tral region. People are still hoping that one day the government will understand the importance of this road and complete it.
One of the most beautiful things about my village is its people. They are hardworking, skilled, and sincere. Many villagers are carpenters, painters, plumbers, electrical workers, mechanics, tailors, and shopkeepers. They earn their living through honest work and support their families with pride. Education has also grown a lot in Bathnoor. Many people are now working as teachers, and they are doing a great job. The teachers of Bathnoor are brilliant and respected in the whole area. They are teaching in government schools and private institutions and are playing a big role in building the future of the new generation.
The children of Bathnoor are also full of talent. Many students are doing well in their studies and sports. They are winning prizes, getting good marks, and bringing respect to their families and village. I feel proud when I see the youth of my village moving forward with their dreams and goals.
Bathnoor also has beautiful natural spots. There are streams and springs flowing through the village. Birds chirp in the forests, and the sound of water running from the hills makes the whole area feel alive. People grow vegetables and fruits here. The village is surrounded by mountains, and in winter, snow covers everything like a white blanket. It becomes very cold, but the beauty of snow-covered trees and roofs makes it look like a picture.
Despite many good things, there are still challenges in our village. As I already said, the Tral to Pahalgam road is still a dream. Also, in some areas, people face problems like lack of clean drinking water, power cuts, and poor mobile network. But even with these problems, people of Bathnoor stay strong. They know how to face hardship and still smile. They never lose hope and always help each other in times of need.
In the end, I just want to say that Bathnoor is not just a name to me. It is my identity. It is the place that made me who I am today. No matter where I go in the world, I will always carry the soil of my village in my heart. The people, the land, the language, the trees, the sounds, the masjids, the roads, and everything else about Bathnoor are part of my story. I will never forget them. I feel proud that I belong to this land.
As a writer, I may write many things in life, but nothing will be more personal or closer to my heart than this article about Bathnoor Tral – my village, my pride.
The writer is a Public Servent/Teacher
