SRINAGAR: Electric Hamams are becoming the latest trend to beat Kashmir’s harsh winters but with challenges like increasing power tariffs and frequent outages, they are yet to replace the traditional stone Hamams.
The stone Hamam, a heated room, powered by a wood fire system, has served as a gathering and comforting space for the people to escape the chilling bits of the season for centuries.
An integral part of many Kashmiri homes, and mosques, the stone Hamam is not just about warmth, it holds deep cultural and social importance. Built with large rectangular slabs of limestone placed over a dug-up floor, it is a marvel of functional architecture.
Traditional Hamam users share their preference for it, praising their consistent warmth and reliability compared to electric alternatives, which are prone to power outages and consistent delays. Besides, they say, the Hamams which reflect Kashmir's rich heritage and sustainable living practices also have therapeutic benefits.
Traditional versus Modern
Traditional stone Hamams in Kashmir are heated using firewood. The structure typically consists of thick limestone slabs placed over a hollow chamber. Firewood is burned in a firebox beneath the stone floor, and the heat generated warms the slabs, which then radiates warmth into the room.
The stones retain heat for an extended period, making them efficient in maintaining warmth, even after the fire has been extinguished.
This traditional method relies on locally available materials, but it requires significant labour and a steady supply of firewood, raising concerns about environmental sustainability.
In contrast, electric Hamams are modern adaptations that use electricity to generate heat. These Hamams are fitted with electric heating elements embedded under tiles or flooring, providing a similar effect to traditional stone Hamams.
The electric system allows for easier temperature control and eliminates the need for firewood, making it a cleaner and more convenient option for many households.
Electric Hamams are dependent on consistent electricity supply, which can be an issue in areas with frequent power outages, and they come with higher operating costs due to rising electricity rates.
More Than Just Warmth
The preference for traditional stone Hamams remains strong among many Kashmiris who value their efficiency and cultural significance.
Shabir Ahmad Lone, a resident of Natipora Srinagar, explained, “We have been using the traditional Hamam for the last ten years, and its efficiency is remarkable. Once we burn it in the morning, the heat stays consistent, keeping the room warm until the next morning.”
“I personally feel that electric Hamams, which rely heavily on electricity, come with certain risks. They are not only dependent on a consistent power supply but also face delays in reheating during outages, which can be inconvenient during freezing winters,” he added.
He further added, “As a family that actively uses this traditional Hamam, we take pride in the fact that we are contributing to preserving our cultural heritage”.
Supporting the same, another user from Pahroo Budgam said "the traditional Hamam is more than just warmth, it is a gathering place where families come together, sharing stories and strengthening bonds through the coldest of winters.”
Modernisation
Those opting for electric Hamams, however, disagree. For them the electric Hamam is a lot about convenience as well as protecting the environment. With a simple switch, users can enjoy warmth without using firewood that is crucial traditional methods.
“Electric Hamam is the world’s thinnest dual fluoropolymer coated heating system with the use of glass mesh in it,” says Magnet Group operation manager, Mir Mohsin.
“If you use it once for 2-3 hours, it gives you heat for up to 7-8 hours even after a power outage. It is completely waterproof and can be installed under the tiles or any water prone area, without risk of electric shock and is installed beneath the concrete,” Moshin says.
Mohsin refutes the belief that frequent power interruptions are a major hinderance. “Modern smart meters don’t affect anything significantly, and the bill is not that high. Normally, the monthly bill will be around ₹1500- ₹ 1800 if used continuously,” he avers.
A significant number of individuals continue to choose underfloor heating, considering it essential rather than just a luxury.
“We rely on the modern electric Hamams, because it is easy to install, environment friendly and easy to handle”, says Mir Elyas Mubeen, a resident of Srinagar.
“If we keep it on for an hour, it gives us a four-hour backup. We can have it in any room without spending any further expenses”. he added.
However, some users are still not very satisfied. “Despite its usefulness, we are not entirely sure about the future of electric Hamams because frequent power cuts make them unreliable. It keeps us in dilemma” said Irfan Hussain, a user.
“In harsh winters, this inconsistency can be a major challenge, which is why many still prefer traditional alternatives,” he added.
With every year, incessant increases in tariffs have posed another challenge to the future of electric Hamams.
Data accessed by the Kashmir Times shows that the “metered areas across the valley for domestic use, on the consumption of 200 units per month consumer have to pay around 3 rupees per unit, followed by consumption of 201–300 units per month costs more than four per kWh, and above 300 units per month costs around five per kWh. The rate goes up on further usage.”
Is Modern Replacing Traditional?
“As of now, I don’t think it has affected the use of traditional Hamams, we have business in different parts of Kashmir, and we live in a place where electricity curtailment is a common phenomenon,” says Fayaz Ahmed, a carver, who makes stone Hamams.
Apart from the warmth it provides during bone-chilling winter, the use of traditional Hamam has certain benefits. The remnants of the traditional Hamam produces coal and ash that preserves the traditional and agriculture practices in Kashmir, its advocates say.
Fayaz Ahmad draws attention towards the hidden cost of the electric Hamams. “The material used in the modern Hamams is imported from outside the valley and this indirectly jeopardizes the local tradition and livelihood,” he says.
Ecological Debate
“Electric Hamam is not in sync with our ‘cultural perspective’, but electric Hamams can reduce the carbon emissions to a larger extent”, says Nadeem Qadri, a lawyer and environmental expert.
“Traditional Hamams are culturally significant but rely on firewood, leading to deforestation and health risks from smoke,” adds Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat, an environmental activist.
“Electric Hamams are cleaner alternatives but face challenges like power outages and high electricity costs, leaving people torn between tradition and sustainability,” he says, pointing to the dilemma.
Have you liked the news article?