Kashmir RootStock

SKILLED HANDS: THE MAGIC OF KASHMIRI HANDICRAFTS THAT CONTINUE INDOORS IN WINTER

For a Kashmiri, winter has never been a season of stopping. It has always been a season of moving inward. When Sheen spreads across rooftops, lanes fall silent and the valley turns white, life does not pause—it simply shifts indoors. This is how it has always been in Kashmir. Winter is not emptiness; it is…

WINTER MORNING IN KASHMIR: ADHAN AND HARISSA

On frozen Kashmiri winter mornings, the echo of the Adhan blends with the steam of piping hot Harissa. This timeless ritual reflects faith, food and survival — a tradition that continues to warm both body and soul across the Valley.

UNTAMED KASHMIR: WHERE ADVENTURE MEETS SERENITY

Given its magnificent natural beauty, Kashmir, which is tucked away in the Himalayas, is frequently called “Paradise on Earth.” Beyond the breathtaking scenery, the area provides adventurers with an exhilarating outdoor playground. Adventure tourism is developing in Kashmir, offering everything from skiing down powder-covered slopes to climbing over high-altitude mountains. It is perfect for a…

HUMAN RIGHTS THROUGH KASHMIRI EYES

This morning, as I looked out from my window and watched the winter sun gently touch the rooftops of the valley, a strange calmness settled in the air. The Chinar leaves, crisp and brown, lay scattered like silent witnesses of time. And in that quietness, I found myself thinking about something we often speak of,…

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES:A KASHMIRI HEARTFELT REFLECTION

As I sit near my window this morning, watching the faint winter sunlight fall across the courtyard and hearing the distant rumble of a shikara moving through a quiet Dal Lake, my mind drifts toward a day the world observes every year — the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. In Kashmir, where compassion flows…

WORLD AIDS DAY: A KASHMIRI HEART SPEAKS

As I write this on a cold December morning, with the light winter sun touching the snow-dusted roofs of my neighbour hood and the aroma of nun chai filling the room, my thoughts quietly drift toward World AIDS Day. In our valley, where life often moves between silence and storms, some conversations still stay hidden…

CONSTITUTION DAY: CELEBRATING THE SPIRIT OF INDIA’S DEMOCRACY

In the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, Constitution Day holds a special significance. Over the past few years, the region has witnessed major constitutional and administrative transformations aimed at strengthening democracy, ensuring equitable development, and extending constitutional rights and protections to every citizen. Today, the people of Jammu & Kashmir stand fully integrated into…

INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR ELIMINATION OF VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN-DEMANDS MORE THAN SYMBOLIC SOLIDARITY

Every year, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women arrives and with it comes a familiar discomfort that societies often try to avoid. We speak of equality in loud voices but whisper about violence in hushed tones. We celebrate women’s achievements in public, yet ignore their suffering in private spaces. The contradiction…

ROLE OF AGRICULTURE IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR ECONOMY

Jammu and Kashmir, often called the Paradise on Earth, is admired not only for its breathtaking natural beauty but also for its fertile valleys and rich agricultural traditions. Farming has long been the backbone of the region’s economy, sustaining a large share of its population. Even as modernization and expansion of towns continue, agriculture and…

NATIONAL JOURNALISM DAY: CELEBRATING TRUTH IN AN AGE OF NOISE

Every year, National Journalism Day in India stands as a quiet but powerful reminder of the sacred responsibility carried by the press. In a world overflowing with information, where every moment is captured, tweeted, uploaded, analyzed and debated, the role of journalism has never been both more powerful and more fragile. This day is not…

NATIONAL CHILDREN’S DAY: CELEBRATING THE FUTURE OF THE NATION

Every year, National Children’s Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and love across India on November 14. The day marks the birth anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, who was fondly known as Chacha Nehru by children. His deep affection for children and his belief that they are the true…

ARMY GOODWILL SCHOOLS: SHAPING KASHMIR’S FUTURE WITH KNOWLEDGE AND INTEGRITY

Amid Kashmir’s towering mountains and turbulent history, education has emerged as a powerful tool of transformation. Leading this change are the Army Goodwill Schools, established under Operation Sadbhavana by the Indian Army. These schools have been instrumental in nurturing young minds, bridging divides and empowering communities across the region for over two decades. What began…

THE CHANGING FACE OF KASHMIR’S ART AND CRAFT

Kashmir is admired across the world for its breathtaking natural beauty and the true essence of the region also lives in its centuries-old traditions of art and craftsmanship. For generations, the valley has been home to artisans who mastered delicate weaving of Pashmina, the intricate carving of walnut wood and the colorful detailing of papier…

INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT IN THE KASHMIR VALLEY

The Kashmir Valley, celebrated for its breathtaking beauty and deep cultural traditions, has also been shaped by the role of infrastructure in influencing its social and economic direction. Situated in the Himalayas with enormous possibilities for growth, the Kashmir valley has long dealt with the challenges of distance, weather and circumstances that slowed progress. Yet,…

NATIONAL CANCER AWARENESS DAY: PROMOTING HEALTH AND HOPE IN KASHMIR

National Cancer Awareness Day, observed every year on November 7th, is a significant occasion dedicated to spreading awareness about cancer, emphasizing prevention and encouraging early detection and treatment. This day is not only a national health observance but also a symbol of unity, compassion and hope for millions of people across India. In regions like…

ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT THROUGH ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN KASHMIR

Economic empowerment in Kashmir means enabling individuals and communities to control resources, make financial decisions and improve livelihoods. Entrepreneurship, starting and managing businesses, is a key catalyst for this empowerment. Amid Kashmir’s unique socio-political challenges, entrepreneurship fosters economic revival and social progress by creating jobs and diversifying beyond traditional agriculture and tourism. Both men and…

MUSIC, PEACE AND RESILIENCE: RECLAIMING KASHMIR’S TRUE IDENTITY FROM RADICAL VOICES

In recent days, the Valley has once again found itself at the crossroads of conflicting narratives. The latest controversy surrounding Sonu Nigam’s concert in Kashmir highlights how certain radical elements continue to exploit every opportunity to deepen social and ideological divides. Ironically, while millions across the country enjoy Sonu Nigam’s songs on radio, television and…

BREAKING BARRIERS: GIRLS SHINING IN EDUCATION

Across the world, education has long been regarded as the most powerful tool for transformation a force capable of reshaping destinies, breaking the cycle of poverty and building societies rooted in equity and progress. Yet for generations, half of humanity the girls were kept away from classrooms, their potential dimmed by tradition, poverty and prejudice….

IMPACT OF RAIL CONNECTIVITY OF J&K TRADE, TOURISM AND DEFENCE

The story of Jammu and Kashmir’s rail connectivity showcase about laying steel lines across valleys and mountains and hope, unity and a collective determination to bridge distances. Every stretch of the railway that winds through the region’s challenging terrain carries with it a quiet assurance of peace, progress and protection. For decades, the dream of…

THE SPIRIT OF ART IN THE VALLEY: KASHMIR ON INTERNATIONAL ARTIST DAY

Every year on October 25, the world observes International Artist Day — a celebration of creativity, imagination and the enduring power of human expression. On this day, we honour artists who transform blank spaces into meaning — who make us see, feel and think differently. In the context of Kashmir, this celebration gains a deeper…

WINTER TOURISM IN KASHMIR

Kashmir, often celebrated as Paradise on Earth, undergoes a magical transformation with the arrival of winter. When snow blankets its valleys, mountains and lakes, the region turns into a spectacular destination for travelers who seek both adventure and serenity. Over the years, this season has become an important pillar of the Valley’s economy, drawing visitors…

SMART VILLAGES IN KASHMIR: THE SILENT DIGITAL REVOLUTION

In the tranquil villages of Kashmir, where apple orchards sway under the shadow of snow-capped peaks and saffron fields shimmer in the autumn sun, a quiet revolution is unfolding. It is not the loud, glittering transformation of urban India’s tech hubs, with their neon lit startups and bustling digital billboards. Instead, it is a subtle,…

HARUD THE SEASON OF CHANGE

A golden carpet Fiery red leaves Meadows mesmerize the eyes. One is transported into a world where everything glows and magic is in the air. Harud is the season which is the gateway to Magic in the land of Kashmir Valley, which is enchanting as well as makes us spellbound and speechless. It is like…

WOMEN EMPOWERMENT IN KASHMIR

Women empowerment in Kashmir has undergone a profound transformation in recent decades, marked by evolving social, political and economic dynamics and punctuated by the resilience and agency of Kashmiri women themselves. This comprehensive article explores the historical context, legislative reforms, grassroots initiatives, the challenges faces and the contributions of influential Kashmiri women across spheres, encapsulating…

FROM DETERMINATION TO VICTORY: GEN BIPIN RAWAT FENCING CHAMPIONSHIP INSPIRES A GENERATION IN KUPWARA

The quiet, picturesque town of Kupwara, nestled in the majestic valleys of North Kashmir, recently transformed into a vibrant epicenter of youth energy, discipline, and national spirit. Over the course of three electrifying days — from October 3 to 5 — the Gen Bipin Rawat Fencing Championship unfolded at the Vajr Fencing Node, Maidan-e-Azam, capturing…

CELEBRATING RESILIENCE: INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE GIRL CHILD IN KASHMIR

Every year on October 11, the world celebrates the International Day of the Girl Child. This day is not only about recognizing the achievements of girls but also about focusing attention on their rights, education, health and equal opportunities. In regions like Kashmir, where social and political circumstances often pose challenges, the day carries a…

THE BEAUTY OF KASHMIR ARCHITECTURE: A LIVING CHRONICLE OF ART AND HARMONY

The architecture of Kashmir is a silent yet eloquent testimony to the region’s layered history, a place where different dynasties, faiths and artistic traditions came together to shape a unique cultural identity. From the ancient stone temples of the Hindu and Buddhist periods to the wooden structures of the Sultanate and Mughal times, every monument…

SMILING THROUGH THE STRUGGLE: KASHMIR’S SOFT POWER ON WORLD SMILE DAY

Every year, on the first Friday of October, people around the world celebrate World Smile Day. At first glance it seems like a simple idea, almost too simple in a world filled with complexity: a reminder to spread kindness and share a smile. But in Kashmir, where life is often framed through headlines of conflict,…

KASHMIR: A JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY AND HERITAGE

Kashmir, often described as “Paradise on Earth”, is one of the most beautiful and historically significant regions of South Asia. Surrounded by the towering Himalayas, snow-clad mountains, rivers and lush valleys, the region has fascinated poets, kings, and travelers for centuries. But beyond its natural beauty lies a long and layered history shaped by religion,…

TRANSFORMING HEALTHCARE IN THE VALLEY OF KASHMIRA DIGITAL AND INSTITUTIONAL RENAISSANCE

The valley of Kashmir, known for its breathtaking beauty but also marked by geographical and infrastructural hurdles has witnessed a remarkable transformation in healthcare over the past decades. From being dependent on traditional healers and having very limited government facilities in the early twentieth century, the region has steadily built a structured system of healthcare…

FOLKLORE OF KASHMIR

Kashmir, often described as paradise on earth, is known for its breathtaking scenery and for its timeless folklore that echoes across valleys and villages. These stories, passed down orally through generations, form the core of the cultural memory of the Kashmiri people. More than entertainment, they are expressions of identity, weaving together beliefs, values and…

GIRL EDUCATION IN A REMOTE HAMLET SCHOOL

Education is often described as the light that dispels the darkness of ignorance and when this light reaches the lives of girls in remote hamlets, it becomes a beacon of hope and transformation. In rural and isolated regions, where development moves slowly and opportunities are few, education for girls plays an even more crucial role….

TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN KASHMIR

Kashmir often hailed as “Paradise on Earth” is a region with immense potential for tourism. Its stunning landscapes, cultural richness and diverse offerings have made it a significant destination for both domestic and international tourists. However, the region’s tourism development has been a complex journey, marked by periods of boom and bust and it faces…

NAYA KASHMIR: A BLUEPRINT FOR PROGRESS

The idea of Naya Kashmir originally emerged in 1944 as a progressive socio-economic charter aimed at establishing a democratic and egalitarian society in Kashmir. It is both a privilege and a responsibility to pen down a topic that holds deep significance for every Indian. Jammu and Kashmir, nestled in the majestic Himalayas, has long been…

REFLECTIONS OF PROSPERITY – A WALK ALONG WHISPERS OF DAL

“A Walk Where I Saw the Soul of Kashmir”. Have you been betrayed by your own thoughts? I did until I walked on the banks of Dal Lake. I found peace, absorbing the serene purity and embracing its every hue. The whispers dancing with the breeze brought a smile to my face, removing every dark…

HARVESTING OPPORTUNITIES: WHY KASHMIR’S AGRICULTURE SECTOR DESERVES INVESTMENT

Kashmir, often called Paradise on Earth, is rich in scenic beauty and has immense agricultural potential. With its unique climate, fertile soils and traditional farming practices, the region has long been a hub for horticulture, floriculture and high-value crops. Yet, despite its promise, the sector remains under-invested and under-optimised. Strategic investments in Kashmir’s agriculture can…

SPORTS INFRASTRUCTURE IN JAMMU & KASHMIR

Sports represent much more than just recreation. They are a unifying force, a way to build character, and a medium for promoting physical well-being and social harmony. In Jammu and Kashmir, sports carry an even deeper significance as they provide a positive avenue for youth, strengthening tourism and bringing communities closer together. Over the last…

YOUNG ACHIEVERS OF JAMMU & KASHMIR: INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION

Jammu and Kashmir, a land celebrated for its natural charm and layered history, is witnessing a new wave of inspiration driven by its young achievers. Instead of being defined by past struggles, the region is steadily being recognized for its pool of talent in sports, entrepreneurship, education and public service. This generation of determined individuals…

ECONOMIC BOOST IN KASHMIR: PROMOTION OF HANDICRAFTS AND LOCAL INDUSTRIES

Economy is the backbone of every thriving state or country. For a nation to sustain and prosper, each region must contribute through its own local economic strengths and industries. A strong local economy not only generates employment but also ensures cultural preservation, social stability and long-term development. In this context, Kashmir holds a unique place…

ASPIRATIONS OF GUJJARS & BAKARWALS IN NAYA KASHMIR: ECHOES FROM THE MOUNTAINS, DREAMS FROM THE HEARTLAND

In the heart of the Himalayas, where clouds drift lazily across snow-kissed peaks and time seems to pause in the morning mist, live the resilient Gujjars and Bakarwals, proud pastoralist communities whose roots run deep in the land of Jammu and Kashmir. For generations, they have journeyed along ancient migratory routes, guiding their herds through…

HINDI DIWAS IN KASHMIR: CELEBRATING LANGUAGE, UNITY AND OPPORTUNITY

Every year, India celebrates Hindi Diwas on 14th September, marking the day in 1949 when Hindi was adopted as one of the official languages of the country. Across India, schools, colleges and institutions use this day to honor the language, its literature and its role in uniting a diverse nation. While Hindi is spoken more…

SUSTAINABLE FARMING IN MOUNTAIN TERRAINS – GUREZ VALLEY

Farming in the mountains is a study in resilience. Steep slopes, thin soils, short growing seasons and fragile ecosystems demand methods that conserve water and nutrients while protecting landscapes from erosion. Around the world, farmers have shaped hillsides into terraced steps, diversified their fields to hedge against climate swings and stored harvests to outlast long…

LIGHTING UP KASHMIR: LITERACY—THE CROWN OF INDIA’S FUTURE

On September 8, the world once again marked International Literacy Day, a reminder that the ability to read and write is not a privilege, it is a right and the foundation of every civilized society. Yet in Kashmir, where the beauty of the land often overshadows the struggles of its people, literacy remains a battle…

EID-E-MILAD IN KASHMIR: A DAY OF LIGHT IN AN AGE OF SHADOWS

There are festivals that we celebrate out of habit, and there are those we observe with the heart. In Kashmir, Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi belongs firmly to the second category. It is not just a date on the Islamic calendar—it is a powerful reminder of who we are, what we value, and what kind of society we aspire…

FRUITS OF THE VALLEY

Each year, as the Himalayan landscape shifts into a season of ripeness, Kashmir’s orchards turn into a living masterpiece. The valley adorns itself with hues of red, gold and green as fruits like apples and cherries mature, reflecting not only the richness of nature but also the resilience and heritage of the people. This seasonal…

NATIONAL SPORTS DAY

Every year on August 29, India observes National Sports Day to commemorate the birth anniversary of the legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand. His extraordinary feat in the field earned him accolades not only in India but worldwide, making this day a celebration of his legacy and a reminder of the transformative power of sports….

WOMEN’S EQUALITY DAY IN KASHMIR

Women’s Equality Day, observed annually on August 26th marks a significant moment in history the certification of the 19th Amendment to the United States, Constitution on 26 August 1920, granting American women the right to vote. However, beyond its origins in the West, the day has evolved into a global call to reflect upon women’s…

THE TRANSFORMING RAILWAY INFRASTRUCTURE IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR

In recent years, Jammu and Kashmir have experienced a profound shift in railway development, marking a significant step toward regional connectivity and integration with the rest of India. This transformation is largely driven by focused policy interventions and a broader vision of national unity. These developments are not just about improving transportation but also about…

SCHOOLS IN THE SNOW: CHALLENGES OF EDUCATION IN GUREZ AND TULAIL

Nestled in the rugged embrace of the Himalayas, the Gurez and Tulail valleys in Jammu and Kashmir are a study in resilience. These remote regions, located near the Line of Control in Bandipora district, are breathtakingly beautiful with snow-capped peaks and the glistening Kishanganga River. Yet, their serene landscapes mask a harsh reality for the…

JANMASHTAMI CELEBRATION IN KASHMIR: A FESTIVAL OF DEVOTION AMIDST THE VALLEY

Janmashtami, also known as Krishna Janmashtami or Gokulashtami, marks the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu, and is one of the most celebrated festivals in Hinduism. Across India, Janmashtami is observed with vibrant rituals, devotional music, fasting, and joyous festivities. In Kashmir, a land often associated with its serene beauty,…

FREEDOM, FLAGS, AND A FUTURE TOGETHER: 79th INDEPENDENCE DAY 2025

15 August 2025, will stand as a landmark moment in the modern history of Jammu and Kashmir, symbolizing not only the commemoration of India’s independence but also a deeper reflection on the transformation the region has undergone in recent years. This year’s Independence Day is not merely another date on the calendar it is the…

ROLE OF KASHMIRI CIVIL SOCIETY IN MAKING AMARNATH YATRA A SUCCESS

This year, the Amarnath Yatra was not just a pilgrimage; it was a powerful testament to the indomitable spirit of human faith, unity and resilience. This annual journey to the sacred Amarnath cave shrine has long been a symbol of devotion for millions of Hindus seeking darshan of the naturally formed ice Shivling. But this…

WHISPERS OF THE CHINAR: THE SOUL OF KASHMIR

Kashmir is not merely a destination marked by coordinates on a map—it is a living poem etched into the cradle of the Himalayas. It transcends geography to become a sanctuary of soul and silence, an eternal ode carved in snow and sunlight. Its snow-draped peaks, glassy lakes, and rolling meadows do not simply form a…

SHEPHERDS OF GUREZ: A NOMADIC LIFE IN HIMALAYAS

Tucked away in the majestic folds of the Himalayas in Northern Kashmir, the Gurez Valley is a place of serene beauty and timeless tradition. Isolated for much of the year due to heavy snowfall and harsh geography, Gurez is home to a resilient people, among whom the shepherds, locally known as Bakarwalsor Gujjars form the…

RAKSHA BANDHAN: A TIMELESS CELEBRATION OF SIBLING LOVE

India is a land of festivals and each festival carries its own unique cultural, religious and emotional significance. Among these, Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi, holds a special place in the hearts of millions. Celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country, Raksha Bandhan is more than just a ritual it is an embodiment of…

WOMEN – THE CHANGE MAKERS OF KASHMIR

Kashmir, a region often associated with scenic landscapes and ongoing political conflict, carries within it a quieter yet deeply significant narrative that of its women. Historically, women in Kashmiri society were respected due to cultural influences like Sufism, which valued their role in family and community life. However, as years of unrest and patriarchal traditions…

WELCOME BY KASHMIRIS TO AMARNATH YATRA: A TIMELESS TRADITION OF FAITH AND BROTHERHOOD

The annual Amarnath Yatra is one of the most revered spiritual pilgrimages in India. Every year, lakhs of Hindu devotees from across the country undertake a strenuous journey to the holy Amarnath Cave, located in the Himalayan heights of Jammu and Kashmir, where a naturally formed ice Shivling is worshipped as a symbol of Lord…

LIFE IN KASHMIR: RESILIENCE AMIDST CHALLENGES

Kashmir, often referred to as “Paradise on Earth,” is a region known for its mesmerizing beauty, but life here is a complex tapestry woven with both breath-taking scenery and socio-political challenges. In this article, we explore the multifaceted aspects of life in Kashmir, from its serene natural landscapes to the resilience of its people in…

DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS IN KASHMIR

The developmental trajectory of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the post-August 2019 epoch, demands an exegesis that transcends the facile binaries of geopolitics and security. For a discerning intelligentsia, a rigorous comprehension necessitates a profound engagement with the intricate dialectic between overarching strategic imperatives, ambitious infrastructural undertakings and the sine qua non of sustainable and…

CONSERVATION OF HISTORICAL MONUMENTS

India, a land steeped in millennia of history, is a vibrant tapestry woven with rich culture, diverse traditions, and an astonishing array of heritage buildings, temples, forts and palaces. These ancient monuments stand as living testaments to golden historical eras that span thousands of years. Unfortunately, many of these invaluable structures have suffered damage and…

AMARNATH YATRA: A BOON FOR KASHMIR

The Amarnath Yatra, a revered pilgrimage to the Amarnath cave in Jammu and Kashmir, has been a significant source of spiritual solace for devotees for centuries. Beyond its religious significance, the yatra has emerged as a boon for Kashmir, bringing numerous economic, social and cultural benefits to the region while projecting “Kashmiriat”. In this article,…

NAVIGATING THE CHALLENGES OF HIGH-ALTITUDE PILGRIMAGE

High-altitude pilgrimages combine deep spiritual devotion with intense physical effort. Journeys to sacred sites like Mount Kailash, Muktinath, and Amarnath are seen not just as religious duties but as paths to inner purification and transcendence. However, these pilgrimages pose serious challenges due to harsh weather, low oxygen levels, and limited infrastructure. Such conditions make the…

WORLD DAY FOR INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE: ADVANCING JUSTICE WITH COMPASSION AND COMMITMENT

On July 17 every year, the international community marks the World Day for International Justice a day of joy in celebrating our common faith in justice, accountability, and human dignity. The day is in remembrance of the signing of the Rome Statute in 1998, which is the precursor to the establishment of the International Criminal…

EMPOWERING THE FUTURE: CELEBRATING WORLD YOUTH SKILLS DAY IN KASHMIR

CELEBRATING WORLD YOUTH SKILLS DAY IN KASHMIR World Youth Skills Day, observed every year on July 15, is a global recognition of the importance of equipping young people with the skills they need for employment, entrepreneurship, and meaningful participation in society. Declared by the United Nations General Assembly in 2014, this day is more than a…

KASHMIR TOURISM IN 2025: REVIVAL AMIDST SERENITY AND SECURITY

The Kashmir Valley, long celebrated for its snow-capped peaks, verdant meadows and tranquil lakes, is witnessing a significant resurgence in tourism in 2025. After years of instability and uncertainty, the region is gradually reclaiming its reputation as the “Paradise on Earth” — attracting domestic and international travelers alike. This year, Kashmir has recorded one of…

KASHMIR : LAND OF STREAMS

Kashmir is the most visited place in India and visit to the lakes of Kashmir is a must do thing for all the tourists. Apart from dazzling mountains and beautiful valleys, the lakes in Kashmir are another attractive landmark for travellers’ delight. The water bodies in Kashmir signify calmness, serenity, peacefulness and tranquillity that give…

SOILS OF KASHMIR

The State of Jammu and Kashmir falls in the great north-western complex of the Himalayan ranges with marked relief variation, snow-capped summits, antecedent drainage, complex geological structure and rich temperate flora and fauna. Geologists believe that approximately ten million years have passed since the Kashmir valley which was once a lake called Satisar, the lake…

THE TIMELESS CULTURE AND CRAFT OF KASHMIR

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Kashmir is often referred to as “Paradise on Earth”, not only for its breath-taking landscapes but also for its rich and diverse cultural heritage. The region has been a confluence of Hindu, Buddhist and Islamic traditions for centuries, shaping a distinctive cultural identity that is reflected in its…

THE UNSUNG BACKBONE: ROLE OF LOCALS IN SUCCESS OF AMARNATH YATRA

Each year, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, a spiritual spectacle unfolds as lakhs of pilgrims’ journey to the sacred Amarnath Cave in Jammu and Kashmir. The pilgrimage, known as the Amarnath Yatra, is not just a test of faith and endurance, but also a glowing example of communal harmony, logistical excellence and human…

HOW AMARNATH YATRA GIVES BOOST TO LOCAL ECONOMY

The annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, a deeply revered pilgrimage undertaken by hundreds of thousands of devotees each year, is not only a spiritual journey but also a powerful economic catalyst for the people of Jammu & Kashmir. Winding through the breathtaking yet rugged Himalayas to reach the sacred Amarnath Cave, home to the naturally…