Mountain Women, Winter Fodder, and the Quiet Strength of Keonthal

As the crisp air of October settles over the hills of Keonthal, a quiet but powerful rhythm begins to pulse through the villages. Women, wrapped in shawls and determination, rise with the sun and head to the grasslands—not for leisure, but for a mission that sustains their families and livestock through the harsh Himalayan winter.

For generations, this seasonal ritual has been a cornerstone of rural life. With snowfall and rain blanketing the region for nearly four months, storing fodder for cattle becomes a matter of survival. In the past, women would gather in groups, sickles in hand, to cut grass in a practice locally known as “Gasai” or “Nalai.” These gatherings weren’t just about labor—they were moments of connection. Women sang mountain songs, shared stories, and found strength in each other’s company. It was grassroots empowerment in its truest form.

Today, machines have replaced the sickles. Grass-cutting is faster, more efficient—but quieter too. The songs have faded, and the communal spirit has shifted. Yet, the dedication remains unchanged.

Progressive farmers like Dayaram Verma and Pritam Singh Thakur reflect on this transformation. They note that October and November are peak months for harvesting maize and pulses, making the women’s efforts even more remarkable. These women pack their lunches, trek several kilometers, and return with heavy loads—often carrying 1.5 to 2 maunds (roughly 60–80 kg) of grass and wood on their backs.

Once home, the grass is stored in a traditional structure called a “Gomat,” a marvel of rural ingenuity. Even in the rain, the grass inside stays dry—ready to nourish cattle through the cold months.

In Keonthal, farming and animal husbandry go hand in hand. Cattle are not just livestock—they’re partners in agriculture. And behind this partnership stands the unwavering strength of women who, season after season, ensure that life in the mountains endures.