Abdul Rehman Kumhar, a former master craftsman of the Qaaleen Baafi art, reflects on the decline of his once-thriving craft in Bacchroo village, Kulgam. The story illustrates his transformation from a celebrated artisan to a labourer, emblematic of a fading tradition. Governmental support waned, and market dynamics turned against them, leaving the community in despair. Kumhar's hopes for a revival seem bleak, and the art, like his dreams, faces a slow decline. His family now grapples with the hardships of their changed circumstances, as the legacy of this once-proud craft fades into obscurity.
n the realm of celebrity culture, passionate fans transcend admiration, weaving their idols' allure into their lives. The rise of celebrity doppelgangers on social media is a phenomenon. In Kashmir, individuals like Mudassir Ahmed Lone (Sunny Deol look-alike), Farooq Ahmad Wani (Mithun Chakraborty look-alike), and Alyas (Amitabh Bachchan look-alike) have gained recognition. They use their striking resemblances to entertain and inspire, with social media amplifying their fame. These stories underscore the transformative power of admiration, self-expression, and individuality in a world yearning for authenticity.
Shunting the Nation by Aniruddha Bose explores the tumultuous decade in South Asian history from 1939 to 1949 through the lens of Indian railway workers. The book delves into their experiences during World War II, the freedom struggle, partition, and class conflicts. While it offers a vivid ground-level view of historical events, it relies heavily on elite biases and organized labor actions, overlooking everyday resistance strategies, gender, and caste dynamics. Despite its limitations, the book provides valuable insights into critical labour experiences and subaltern perspectives, making it an important contribution to South Asian history.
In Kashmir, a prevalent trend sees women willingly forgoing their rightful inheritance shares in order to maintain harmonious relationships with their brothers. While some disputes arise over property, deceitful tactics, and betrayal, others find resolution through out-of-court settlements or selfless acts. Islamic law mandates fair inheritance shares for women, emphasizing their rights and discouraging any attempts to deny them what is rightfully theirs.
Kashmir, known for its natural beauty, also boasts captivating architectural ruins, with Naranag Temple as a prime example nestled near Mount Harmukh. This picturesque village on Wangath Rivulet's left bank in Ganderbal district offers stunning visuals, especially when covered in snow during winter, attracting adventure seekers and families alike. Naranag serves as a base for treks to Gangbal Lake, Dumail, and Marchoi Valley, each offering unique experiences. Historically, it holds significance dating back to ancient texts, featuring well-preserved temple ruins showcasing a blend of architectural styles. Visitors praise the warm hospitality of the locals, making Naranag a cherished destination for those seeking serenity and a sense of homecoming.