In Kumrat Valley, Upper Dir, we
rely on traditional watermills to grind flour, a practice distinct from the
cities where machines are commonly used to mill flour for bread. Here, in the
local Gawri language, the watermill is known as "Yel." The process
begins with scheduling a turn from the watermill's operator, called the
"Yelir." Since milling is done in an orderly queue, each family waits
for their assigned time, as no one can use the watermill without the Yelir's
approval.
Each year from October to
November, locals bring their maize grains to be ground and stored for the
winter. During heavy snowfall, when we are confined to our homes, this stored
food becomes essential. The watermill itself is powered by fast-flowing streams,
called "Nadi Nalos." Since it runs on the force of the water, the
mill requires no electricity, petrol, or diesel.
The mill's setup includes two
large grinding stones stacked atop one another, with a wooden, fan-like
mechanism below called the "Pashool." Water flows onto the Pashool
from a height, initiating rotation. Attached to this Pashool is a sturdy wooden
stick, or "Thoom," which connects the Pashool to the stones with
strength and precision. As water falls on the Pashool, the Thoom begins to
spin, setting the upper grinding stone in motion.
Grains are poured into a box-like
structure known as the "Dador," which feeds the grains into the
stones through a small wooden canal, or "Dadak." One end of the Dadak
is linked to the upper stone so that as the stone rotates, it moves the Dadak,
steadily directing grains between the stones. A strong thread controls the flow
of grains, ensuring the pace is steady. Once ground, the flour is collected and
placed into sacks with the help of a manual scoop, known as the "Lavli."
Our community has used these
watermills for centuries, and each autumn, they run continuously, day and
night. When someone's turn falls during the night, it’s customary to bring
friends, music instruments like the sitar and flute, and sometimes a lantern.
The rhythmic sound of the grinding stone, mixed with the music and folk songs,
creates a unique, almost mystical atmosphere under the autumn night sky.
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