Whenever the historic city of Bareilly is mentioned, the iconic image of the legendary "jhumka" immediately springs to mind. However, this city boasts another ancient legacy that has been beautifying and caring for people's eyes for multiple generations: the famous Bareilly Surma (kohl). This traditional eye preparation has secured a highly respected reputation not only across India but also in numerous international markets. As the monsoon season arrives and brings a wave of humidity-induced eye complications, many individuals actively turn to these time-tested traditional products for daily eye care. Even so, maintaining professional medical oversight remains critical whenever actual eye infections manifest.
A Generational Legacy and the Intricate Art of Kohl Making
Situated in the bustling Bara Bazar locality of Bareilly, Junaid Ahmad Quadri, the proprietor of Quadri Surma & Company, sheds light on this ancestral craftsmanship. He explains that the art of preparing genuine Surma has been passed down through his family over several generations. This craft is far from a standard business venture that anyone can abruptly launch overnight. Mastering it demands years of practical experience, deep-rooted traditional wisdom, and closely guarded family recipes. This level of complexity is precisely why the trade cannot be easily replicated, as it requires a delicate blend of precision and patience to maintain the therapeutic purity of the final product.
Combating Seasonal Eye Ailments During the Monsoon
The shift in weather during the rainy season brings elevated levels of humidity, stagnant water, and environmental pollutants, all of which trigger a sharp rise in eye-related health issues. According to Junaid Ahmad Quadri, individuals frequently suffer from conjunctivitis (commonly known as eye flu), styes, burning sensations, persistent itching, redness, and severe dryness during this period. In such conditions, maintaining rigorous personal hygiene is absolutely vital. People must avoid close contact with infected individuals and proactively consult a qualified ophthalmologist if any discomfort persists or worsens.
Product Varieties and Pricing for Every Budget
For entrepreneurs looking to venture into this traditional trade, the company offers opportunities to source various types of Surma for local retail distribution. Quadri Surma & Company manufactures a wide range of specialized options, including Mamira Number 500 and the 555 Special. Depending on consumer preferences, they also provide kajal, paste preparations, and loose kohl powder. The pricing structure is designed to be highly accessible. While basic, everyday-use Surma starts at a highly affordable price of just 5 Rupees, the premium range, which features superior ingredients and refined processing, is priced between 200 Rupees and 400 Rupees.
Traditional Benefits and Essential Medical Cautions
Discussing the practical application of this age-old remedy, Junaid Ahmad Quadri notes that regular users often report significant relief from minor irritation, burning sensations, and mild ocular discomfort. However, he strongly cautions against relying solely on traditional kohl during severe medical emergencies. If a person experiences acute eye pain, persistent redness, discharge of pus, blurry vision, or other severe symptoms of infection, they should immediately bypass home remedies and visit an eye specialist. While traditional formulations can serve as soothing supplementary care, they are never a replacement for professional clinical diagnosis and medical treatment.
