Pretch: Our Traditional Riddles

Kashmiri riddles (phehliyan) locally known as Pretch are not just linguistic puzzles but the threads that weave together the tapestry of our cultural heritage. Passed down through generations, these riddles served as more than just entertainment; they were a testament to the wit, wisdom, and resilience of our ancestors.

In the quiet corners of rural Kashmir, where time seemed to move at its own pace, these riddles echoed through the valley, testing the sharpness of minds and bringing laughter to faces weathered by life’s trials. They were not mere diversions but windows into the soul of our people, encapsulating our values, beliefs, and traditions in their cleverly crafted verses.

What makes Kashmiri riddles truly remarkable is their ability to straddle the line between amusement and enlightenment. With each enigmatic question posed, they challenged the intellect while also imparting lessons in humility, perseverance, and lateral thinking.

They were a reminder that wisdom comes not only from books but from the world around us, from observing nature’s wonders and understanding the intricacies of human behavior.

As we reflect on these timeless treasures, it becomes evident that they are more than just linguistic curiosities; they are the guardians of our cultural identity. In a rapidly changing world, where traditions are often overshadowed by modernity, preserving our heritage becomes an act of defiance against oblivion.

It is a declaration that we are proud of where we come from, that we honor the sacrifices of those who came before us, and that we are committed to passing on their legacy to future generations.

In the annals of history, there are stories of how these seemingly innocuous riddles played a pivotal role in shaping destinies. From saving nations and from destruction to outwitting tyrants, they have wielded a power far greater than their humble origins would suggest. They are a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human mind, to its capacity for ingenuity and resourcefulness in the face of adversity.

In childhood, I and my sisters would often ask one another Pretch and with great curiosity search for their answers. When a Pretch would become tough for me to be answered, I would straight go to my mother who never accepted my defeat, to inquire about its answer.

She was the epitome of answers, not even for the twisted riddles been asked to me, but for the life’s other tough trials. I recall a Pretch, “Asman Pakan Kakaya, Zungun Gandeth Kermaya; Ye Kus Sana Peerbaya?, which she answered me after her two days return from a relative; whose answer was Katij (swallow).

As a custodian of this rich heritage, it is our responsibility to ensure that these riddles continue to resonate through the corridors of time. We must teach them to our children, share them with our communities, and celebrate them as the treasures they are.

For preserving these riddles, we preserve a part of ourselves; a part of our history, and a part of what it means to be a Kashmiri. Scores of riddles which are nostalgic; varied from place to place, both in number and wording. I can’t site all except a loosely-translated few here; due to space restraint:

1). Aasman Pakan Janawara Chuench Gandeth Pun, Boen Kun Laman Bazigara Emuk Maney Wun? (It flies in the sky but is not a bird. It is pulled down by a juggler. Gantbraer (kite)

2). Hyre Woth Jandgur Jund Trayeth, Ba-shath Luk Thayen Tamlaweth? (It fell down from the above and attracted thousands towards it? Doon (walnut).

3). Suen Suend Sundook, Rofh Suend Thand. Yus Taht Tulay Sa Gov Phelwan? (A golden box with silver lid, who is strong that opens it? Tobudh (coffin).

4). Aay Kukel Chai Wanis, Tulen Panus Ghatkar? (It is not a saw but it cuts) Dukaer (barber’s scissors).

5). Krhon Che Kaw Chenae, Waedan Che Janawar Chenae? (It is black but not a crow. It flies, is not a bird? Duoh (smoke).

6). Sabez Chae Hak Chanae, Chop Layan Surof Chanae? (It is green but not collard. It bites but is not a snake? Soi (neetle).

Manzoor Akash is a Teacher by Profession