Srinagar, Aug. 29 -- Last spring, in a small Srinagar locality, Parveen Shabir opened her door to a neighbour carrying a crate of juice, a box of sweets, and a small bag of candies for her son's exam success.

Parveen smiled and thanked her, but the warmth of the visit was overshadowed by worry.

The previous month, she had borrowed money to keep up with Wartavobligations at her cousin's wedding.

Now, another visit meant another expected gift, another financial squeeze.

Kashmir has long been known for its spirit of community. Neighbours stand together in floods, illnesses, and celebrations.

Wartav, also calledGuliMyiuth, grew from this ethos.

Families share in each other's joys and sorrows with visits and offerings. Historically, it r...