Simbalwala

Description

Introduction to Simbalwala

The village Simbalwala derives its name from the Simbal trees that once grew in abundance across the region. These tall, sturdy trees were a defining feature of the area, making it a natural landmark. In earlier times, the region was completely uninhabited,there were no houses, no roads, and no permanent residents. The land was mostly wild and untouched, with only forests and natural vegetation. In 1905, when canal water was brought into the area, the land became suitable for agriculture and human settlement. The arrival of water transformed the landscape and gave people a reason to settle here. Farmers and families from nearby regions began moving in, drawn by the promise of fertile soil and a steady water supply. Over time, the population grew and the village started to develop. Houses were built, fields were cultivated, and community life began to flourish.

Today, Simbalwala stands as a thriving village, with its name still reflecting its natural heritage.

Population and Urbanization

Simbalwala is a moderately populated village with a predominantly rural setup. The total population is approximately 2700. The village has a diverse social structure: around 50% of the population belongs to the Rajput community, 20% are from Scheduled Castes, 10% are Gurjars, about 40% are Brahmins, and a few Sikh families also reside in the village. The settlement retains its traditional rural character, with limited urban infrastructure. The village has a Gram Panchayat, with its office located in Dharam Khoo (Tersetalab), which manages local governance and development activities.

Cultural Identity and Heritage

Simbalwala is primarily inhabited by the Dogras, a Hindu Rajput community with a strong martial heritage from the Jammu region.

They ruled Jammu and Kashmir from 1846 to 1947, leaving a lasting impact on the area’s history and culture.

Their distinct traditions contribute to the unique cultural identity of Simbalwala and connect the village deeply to the region's heritage.

Religious Sites

1. Bawa Talab

Bawa Talab is approximately 7 minutes away from Simbalwala, located in Chak Bhalwal. It has temples dedicated to Baba Jitto, Bua Kodhi, and Lord Hanuman . This is a revered pilgrimage site. People come here from far and wide, take a dip in the sacred pond, and offer prayers at the temple.

2. Jhiri Temple

Jhiri is located about 1 kilometer from the village. The temple here is dedicated to Baba Jitto, Bua Kodhi, Radha-Krishna, Goddess Durga, and Lord Hanuman. A seven-day fair is held here in November. According to legend, Baba Jitto came to Jhiri from a village named Gar. He cultivated rice on the land of landlords with the promise that he would receive a share of the harvest. However, when the landlords broke their promise and refused to give him his rightful share, Baba Jitto ended his life with a dagger in protest. After him, his daughter Bua Kodhi also sacrificed her life.

Today, people, including families of those who once ate that rice, travel to Jhiri from across Jammu and Kashmir and even from Punjab to offer prayers at the temple.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit this village is during October and November, as the weather becomes pleasantly cool and the famous Jhiri Mela is held during this time.

The fair features a wide variety of foods, rides and games for children, toys, and much more.

It’s a lively event where people of all ages come together to celebrate and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Village Life and Community Living

Life in this village is calm and rooted in simplicity. People mainly depend on agriculture to support themselves.The houses are usually built using natural materials like mud or bricks, and villagers begin their work early in the morning.Most villagers live in close contact with their neighbours, creating a strong sense of unity and support.Fairs are a big source of joy and entertainment for them.Although village may lack some modern comforts, the way of living there is healthy, peaceful, and close to nature.

Social Welfare and Community Initiatives

There are two NGOs actively working in this area:

1) We Love Humanity Foundation

This is a social service organization focused on the welfare of women.

It provides support for the marriage of underprivileged girls and offers rehabilitation assistance to widowed women, helping them regain dignity and live independently.

The foundation’s mission is to ensure that every woman feels safe, respected, and empowered.

2) Gramin Samasya Samadhan

This is an NGO that works to identify and solve rural problems, especially those related to roads, drainage, streets, and other basic infrastructure.

It works closely with local government authorities to ensure that villages receive the necessary support and development they deserve.

Both of these centers are led by President Sushma Rani, who is deeply dedicated to social welfare and rural upliftment.

Education Facilities

1. An anganwadi center has been set up here to provide care and early education for children.

2. Most of the students from Simbalwala attend Shaheed Naik Sukhjit Singh Memorial Government High School, Bathera, and Vir Ram Chander Memorial School, both of which are just a few minutes away from the village.

3. There is no college here, so students have to go to other villages or cities for higher education.

Health and Wellness

The AYUSH Health and Wellness Center is located in Shamachak.

It serves both the Shamachak and Simbalwala villages through a single shared dispensary/healthcare center.

This center provides essential healthcare services and focuses on well-being of the local community.

Economy and Livelihoods

The main economic driver of the village is farming, as most people are engaged in agriculture.

However, some villagers also run their own shops, while others either join Army or work in nearby brick kilns to earn a living.

Annual Village Fair

The village participates in Jhiri Mela, an annual event that brings people together not only from Simbalwala but also from nearby villages.

It is a vibrant and joyful fair where people of all ages come to enjoy food, games, rides .

This event strengthens the sense of unity and togetherness among different villages and serves as a shared celebration for the entire community.

Vegetation and Crops

There are no unique species of flora or fauna found in the village.

However, the area is known for the presence of Simbal trees , which are part of the village’s identity and even gave the village its name, Simbalwala.

In addition, the village has a rich variety of vegetable and crop plants commonly grown by farmers.

These include tomatoes, brinjals (eggplants), ladyfinger (okra), rice, sugarcane, garlic, potatoes, turmeric (haldi), green peas (matar), cauliflower (gobhi), and spinach (palak).

These plants are essential to the local diet and agriculture, even though they are not unique to the region.

Languages Spoken

In this village, the majority of people primarily communicate in Dogri and Hindi, which are commonly used in daily conversations, local interactions, and community gatherings.