From Tradition to Transformation: The Women of Kashmir’s Cheese Revolution
In the misty highlands of Langanbal, near Pahalgam, where the towering Himalayas stand as eternal sentinels, a quiet revolution is unfolding. It is not led by banners or loud voices, but by the gentle yet determined hands of women shaping their futures—one cheese wheel at a time.
A New Beginning
For 35-year-old Amina Begum, life was once a monotonous cycle of household chores and financial strain. “My husband’s income barely kept us afloat,” she recalls, seated in the warmth of her modest kitchen in Srigufwara. The thought of contributing financially to her family seemed as distant as the snow-capped peaks surrounding her village.
But in 2011, a ripple of change reached her doorstep. Word spread about a factory hiring women to make cheese—a craft she had neither seen nor imagined mastering. The opportunity was unlike anything she had encountered before. It was a door to independence, though stepping through it was not easy.
Defying Conventions
“When I first mentioned working in a factory, my village dismissed the idea,” Amina shares. “Even my in-laws were skeptical, questioning what a woman could possibly gain from working outside the home.”
In Kashmir’s deeply traditional society, a woman’s place has long been confined to the household. The notion of financial independence, especially through employment outside the home, is often met with skepticism and resistance. But despite the social constraints, Amina and several other women took the leap.
Their path to empowerment was paved by Himalayan Products, an artisanal cheese-making enterprise founded by Dutch entrepreneur Chris Zande. Established over a decade ago, the initiative was built on a vision of social entrepreneurship—one that uplifts underprivileged women while preserving the region’s traditional food heritage.
The Art of Cheese-Making
Learning to make cheese was not merely about acquiring a new skill. It was about transformation—both personal and communal.
“Chris didn’t just teach us the techniques; he worked alongside us,” Amina explains. What began as a small operation soon flourished into a thriving business producing an array of cheeses, from traditional Kalari, a Kashmiri specialty, to internationally loved varieties like Gouda and Cheddar. The factory’s innovations include unique flavors like chili Gouda and basil garlic Gouda, a testament to the blend of traditional and modern craftsmanship.
Beyond cheese, the women were trained in jam-making, honey production, and packaging, adding layers of economic opportunity to their newfound expertise.
For Nighat, who joined the Srinagar unit in 2017, the experience has been nothing short of life-changing. “Before this, my days revolved around household chores,” she says. “Now, I take pride in seeing our products in stores and hearing customers appreciate their quality.”
Financial Freedom, Personal Struggles
The earnings—ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 per month—may not seem extravagant, but for these women, they symbolize a newfound sense of self-reliance.
“With my salary, I can send my children to school and even save a little,” Nighat shares, her eyes glinting with quiet satisfaction. But their journey is not without its burdens. After long hours at the factory, they return home to resume their roles as caregivers, cooks, and homemakers.
“The work is exhausting,” Amina admits, “but the independence makes it worthwhile.”
Recognizing these challenges, Zande ensures flexible shifts and a supportive environment. “We want them to succeed, not burn out,” he affirms. The initiative is as much about economic empowerment as it is about preserving dignity.
A Vision Beyond Cheese
For Zande, the business is not just about producing high-quality dairy products—it is about creating a sustainable model of empowerment.
“When I started this, I wanted to prove that business can have a social purpose,” he reflects. “Seeing these women take charge of their lives is the most rewarding part.”
The ripple effect of this transformation extends beyond individual households. Women who once faced societal scrutiny now stand as role models, challenging norms and redefining possibilities for future generations.
A Future Forged in Resilience
Himalayan Products is more than a brand—it is a symbol of change, a testament to the power of opportunity. The factory walls echo with stories of perseverance, and every cheese wheel crafted carries with it the essence of a woman who dared to dream.
“When I walk into the factory, I feel like I’m part of something important,” Amina says, a soft smile breaking across her face. “This job isn’t just about money—it’s about dignity.”
In a land where mountains stand tall, these women stand taller, carving out a future where their voices, their labor, and their aspirations shape a story of resilience—one that will echo far beyond the hills of Kashmir.