Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Nov 11 : For generations, the narrow lanes of Wazapora in downtown Srinagar have produced the men behind Kashmir’s grand wedding feasts. From shaping Rista and Gushtaba to preserving recipes passed down through generations, Wazas have remained central to a culinary tradition that defines Kashmiri celebrations. Now, they want weddings to end on time.
The Kashmiri Waza Association on Wednesday announced new timings for marriage functions, asking families to serve lunch by 3 PM and conclude dinner by 10 PM, saying prolonged delays and late-night feasts have made the profession increasingly difficult.
Association President Ghulam Nabi Waza told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the decision followed years of hardship caused by the late arrival of grooms and guests, often leaving chefs waiting for hours after completing preparations.
“Late arrival of the groom and guests and dinner stretching late into the night has made our work extremely difficult,” he said.
Waza said chefs begin work early in the morning and spend hours preparing the traditional Wazwan, but delays in wedding functions disrupt their schedules and affect food quality and overall arrangements.
Nabi appealed to families to ensure that baraats and guests arrive on time and marriage ceremonies follow the announced schedule.
Meanwhile, the announcement followed a meeting of Wazas held on Tuesday, which was attended by chefs from Srinagar district. It was unanimously decided that the chef and the host family would sign an agreement on timings, outlining the terms and conditions.
An affidavit would subsequently be prepared and signed by both parties before the chef accepts the wedding food contract.
The association further said its next meeting, which will be attended by Waza chiefs from across Jammu and Kashmir, is scheduled to be held within the next few days.
A Waza told KNO that this profession demands long hours and years of training, making it difficult to attract young people. “Earlier, boys would learn the craft from their fathers and continue the family profession. Today, many want different careers and more regular working hours,” he said.
A local resident, Sahil, said the association’s announcement is a welcome move and should be implemented. “In Kashmir, we have seen 2-2:30 PM written on invitation cards, but the meal is served at 4-5 PM, which should change,” he said.
The association has urged families to cooperate with the new timings, saying punctuality would make marriage functions more convenient for hosts, guests and the Wazas—(KNO)
