The word "shikara" is a type of wooden boat commonly used for leisurely rides on lakes and rivers in India. The phonetic transcription of "shikara" is /ʃɪˈkɑːrə/. The symbol /ʃ/ represents the sound of "sh", while /ɪ/ represents the short "i" sound. The stress is placed on the second syllable, indicated by the symbol /ˈ/. The final sound, /ə/, is the "schwa" sound, commonly found in unstressed syllables. Correctly spelling the word "shikara" ensures effective communication, especially in travel and tourism settings.
A shikara is a traditional wooden boat mainly used for transportation purposes in the picturesque region of Kashmir, located in the northwestern part of India. This term is derived from the Persian word "shikar," meaning "hunting," as these boats were originally used for hunting wild waterfowl.
A shikara is a long, narrow, flat-bottomed boat with a pointed bow and stern, crafted entirely by hand using seasoned wood. It typically measures 15 to 20 feet in length and can accommodate up to six passengers comfortably. These boats are renowned for their elegant design and intricate woodwork, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the local artisans.
Shikaras are propelled by skilled boatmen who navigate using a long wooden oar, known as a "haku." The boatmen not only serve as expert guides but also add to the overall charm of the experience with their melodious Kashmiri songs.
While initially used for hunting expeditions, shikaras have now become an essential part of tourism in Kashmir. They are primarily utilized for joyful rides on the serene Dal Lake, floating markets, and exploring the beautiful Mughal gardens that surround the water bodies.
Today, shikaras are often decorated with vibrant floral patterns and polyester canopies to provide shade to passengers during sunny days. The soothing experience of gliding across the calm waters of Kashmir in a shikara has made it a symbol of the region's rich cultural heritage and an iconic tourist attraction.
The word "shikara" has its origins in the Sanskrit language. In Sanskrit, the word is spelled "śikara" (शिकर) and its root is derived from the verb "śikṛ" which means "to top" or "to crown". The term "shikara" refers to a type of traditional wooden boat or watercraft commonly found in Kashmir, India. These boats are known for their distinctive pointed shape resembling a crown or peak, hence the connection to the Sanskrit root meaning "top" or "crown".