Among the fruits mentioned in the Holy Quran, grapes (Inab) appear eleven times as a symbol of divine provision — a blessing in this world and a reward in paradise. Similarly, the Bible makes frequent references to this fruit. In Buddhist texts and Hindu scriptures as well, grapes form a part of the Kundavana forest’s biodiversity. Thus, throughout history and across civilizations, grapes have been deeply intertwined with human culture.
Viticulture refers to the cultivation of grapevines, which belong to the botanical genus Vitis. Archaeobotanical studies have revealed seeds and charcoals belonging to Vitis vinifera in the Neolithic II phase at Burzahom, dating back to around 1700–1000 BC. This discovery indicates a very early presence of the grapevine in the Kashmir Valley, adding yet another fascinating layer to the region’s ancient heritage.
There are thousands of known cultivars of the Old World grapevines, all believed to be derived from a single wild species, Vitis vinifera, native to Middle Asia. This wild species still grows from northeastern Afghanistan to the southern borders of the Black and Caspian Seas. Cultivation of grapes was underway in the Near East as early as the fourth millennium BC, and it is from this region that Vitis is thought to have spread to India and other parts of the world.
The grapevine is mentioned in the Bible and other ancient Hebrew writings as gafen, a word derived from the root kafan, meaning “to bend or curl” — a fitting description of vine stems and tendrils. The grapevine has been cultivated in the Holy Land for centuries. In the authorized version of the Bible, Isaiah 5:2 translates beoushim as “wild grapes,” though most Hebrew scholars believe it refers to unripe grapes or grapes that never ripen — but not truly wild ones. The Bible also recounts that Noah planted a vineyard after the flood, stating, “And Noah began to be a husbandman, and he planted a vineyard…” (Genesis 9:20–21).
Archaeological records reveal evidence of grape cultivation from the Bronze Age levels at Jericho and Lachish. Seeds dating to the Iron Age have also been found at multiple excavation sites across Israel. Grapes have been reported from the Bronze Age sites of Mehrgarh and Nausharo in the Indus Valley, as well as from Tepe Yahya in Iran. Based on these findings, it is reasonable to believe that the grapevine of Kashmir originated in the Middle East and was likely introduced to the region via Central Asia.
“Dachhe Repore, Nazar Tsopore” is a famous saying attributed to Sheikh-ul-Alam, the revered Sufi saint and poet (1377–1438 AD), suggesting the presence of flourishing vineyards in that village during his lifetime. The very mention of Dachh — the Kashmiri word for grapes — brings to mind Repore, widely known as the “Grape Village” of Kashmir.
Located in the Ganderbal district, Repore stands as one of the most significant centers of Kashmir’s agricultural heritage. While different parts of the Valley are celebrated for their apple orchards, cherry groves, walnut trees, almond farms, and saffron fields, Repore has carved a distinct identity through its exceptional grape cultivation. The village’s vineyards, renowned for their unique produce, contribute significantly to the local economy and sustain the livelihoods of many residents.
Repore’s distinction in grape farming stems not only from its favorable geographic and climatic conditions but also from the unique timing of its grape harvest. The grapes of Repore ripen precisely when fresh grapes are scarcely available elsewhere, giving the village a natural market advantage. This seasonal edge has long positioned Repore as a key player in Kashmir’s grape economy, preserving its legacy as the cradle of viticulture in the region.
The author has held several significant positions in J&K government, including the Chairman (interim) of Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC)
