Kashmir RootStock

WORLD CANCER DAY: A CALL FOR AWARENESS, EARLY DETECTION AND HOPE IN KASHMIR

Every year on February 4, the world comes together to observe World Cancer Day, a global initiative aimed at raising awareness, promoting prevention, and encouraging timely diagnosis and treatment. In Kashmir, where healthcare challenges intersect with geographical, economic, and social realities, this day carries special importance. Cancer is no longer a distant or rare disease;…

JAMMU AND KASHMIR: TRANSFORMATION THROUGH GOVERNANCE, INFRASTRUCTURE AND STABILITY

Jammu and Kashmir are undergoing a phase of transformation that marks a clear departure from the patterns that shaped its recent past. The changes initiated after 2019 altered the region’s administrative and economic trajectory, creating conditions for deeper integration with national systems and more responsive governance. What was once characterized by constrained policy making and…

TOURISM BOOM IN KASHMIR: NEW OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES IN THE VALLEY

The transformation of the Kashmir Valley over the past half a decade is nothing short of a geopolitical and psychological revolution. It is a story of resilience that has effectively dismantled decades of foreign sponsored turbulence and replaced it with the vibrant hum of commerce and connectivity. As one stands on the banks of the…

NATIONAL GIRL CHILD DAY: KASHMIR’S DAUGHTERS, KASHMIR’S STRENGTH

National Girl Child Day encourages reflection on the realities of girls in Kashmir, where tradition and ambition coalesce. These girls challenge societal norms, striving for education and leadership despite obstacles. Empowering them requires collective responsibility from families, institutions, and communities to nurture their potential and ensure their voices are heard, shaping a hopeful future.

MORE THAN TEA: NOON CHAI AS A TRUE SYMBOL OF KASHMIRI IDENTITY

Lush green meadows, snow-clad mountains and flowers smiling under the magnificent sun. The sun spreads its rays gently, touching the feet on Maa Sharika resting upon the hill. Divine blessings of the Mauje reach every corner of the valley, showing a path of wisdom, brotherhood and peace. This is Kashmir land of Saints and Peers…

NATIONAL YOUTH DAY AND THE QUIET STRENGTH OF KASHMIRI YOUTH

National Youth Day arrives each year as a reminder but in Kashmir it feels less like a formal observance and more like a moment of reflection. Observed on the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, the day speaks of youth as a moral force—strong in character, disciplined in thought and committed to service. In the Valley,…

KASHMIR: A FORGOTTEN LAUNCHPAD OF GLOBAL BUDDHISM

Archaeological findings in Zehanpora, Kashmir, unveil its pivotal role in the evolution of Buddhism. Far from being peripheral, Kashmir served as a crucial intellectual hub, especially during the Kushan period. Its monasteries and scholarly traditions facilitated the spread of Mahayana Buddhism across Asia, shaping global perceptions of the religion.

PROTECTING THE JHELUM RIVER: COMMUNITY ACTION AGAINST POLLUTION

In Sopore, the River Jhelum faces severe pollution from waste, alarming residents and threatening public health and local businesses. Accumulated refuse impacts the river’s ecosystem, leading to increased diseases and reduced fish populations. Community activism and responsible waste management practices are crucial to restoring the river’s health and sustaining local livelihoods.

J&K MOVES TO SEISMIC ZONE VI: RISKS, SCIENCE AND WHAT IT MEANS FOR KASHMIRIS

Kashmir’s seismic status has been reclassified from Zone V to Zone VI, reflecting a deeper scientific understanding of the region’s earthquake hazards. This change emphasizes the need for improved building practices, public awareness and community preparedness. It serves as a call to align traditional resilience with modern seismic knowledge for safer living conditions.

KANGRI: A TIMELESS SYMBOL OF WARMTH IN KASHMIR

In the harsh winters of Kashmir, the Kangri is more than a source of heat—it is a companion woven into daily life, memory, and survival. Carried beneath the pheran and glowing quietly through power cuts and frozen nights, the Kangri reflects indigenous wisdom, shared warmth, and a cultural continuity that modern comforts have never replaced.

GUESTS OF HOKERSAR: THE WORLD OF MIGRATORY BIRDS THAT VISIT KASHMIR IN WINTER

Every winter, Hokersar Wetland becomes Kashmir’s living calendar as migratory birds arrive from across continents, transforming the silent marshes near Srinagar into a global meeting ground of wings. Beyond a natural spectacle, Hokersar reflects Kashmir’s deep ecological connections, cultural memory, and the urgent need to protect fragile habitats in an age of environmental change.

FREIGHT TRAIN: A NEW DIRECTION IN KASHMIR

The arrival of Kashmir’s first FCI freight train marks a decisive shift in the Valley’s connectivity and food security. More than a logistical milestone, it represents reliable supply chains, economic opportunity, and a tangible step toward stability—where development is measured not by slogans, but by essentials reaching people on time..

CHILLAI KALAN: KASHMIR’S HARSH WINTER WONDERLAND

Chillai Kalan, the coldest phase of Kashmir’s winter, transforms the valley into a snowy wonderland from 21st December to 31st January. During these 40 days, Kashmir experiences sub-zero temperatures, heavy snowfall, and a quiet stillness that defines the season. For Kashmiris, this period is more than just a test of endurance — it’s a time of tradition, resilience, and deep connection to the land. From the warmth of the kangri to the beauty of the snow-covered Dal Lake, Chillai Kalan teaches us to embrace the cold with strength and unity.

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…

VIKSIT BHARAT, VIKSIT JAMMU AND KASHMIR

India has made significant strides toward becoming a developed country over the past few decades. The vision of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) has been an aspiration that has guided the nation’s policies, strategies and national programs. In the context of Jammu & Kashmir the region has undergone substantial changes especially in recent years. This…

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…