Changing Momentum of Settlement Patterns in Bhanna, Azad Jammu & Kashmir

Abstract

This study deals with settlement patterns of Bhanna, their evolution over the years, land, and professions of the residents of Bhanna, their association with landscape, resource management, and ecological impact over the lives of inhabitants of Bhanna. The research starts with identification of site within the region of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, its weather condition, elevation from sea level, and impact of weather on adaptation to the site. This study falls under the criterion of phenomenology where symbolic interpretation was applied to analyse data following the Grounded Theory. Then approach of Doxiadis was used to define village and to study its physical features. Before conducting survey, significance of district Muzaffarabad was reviewed to analyse its connection and impact on settlement of Bhanna. A brief history of Kashmir is also reviewed to understand the background of phenomena observed in village of Bhanna that shaped the experiences of its people. Along with settlement patterns, cultural and architectural practices observed at the site have also been discussed. It also encircles the construction techniques used over the centuries, ornamentation patterns, influence of neighbouring countries over living patterns, major routes, sacred landscape, and archaeological traces of previous settlement observed in Bhanna.