Rooh Bhatt – Kashmir RootStock

HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE OF KASHMIR & WAY FORWARD -II

Not long ago, the former Pakistani President General Zia ul Haq had also made a plan not only to annex the lands of Kashmir but dismember India which generally conformed to what was put together as Op Topac. Zia aimed to bring final victory for Islamic Pakistan over Hindu India and therefore his campaign was not confined to Kashmir alone. General Abdul Akhtar Rahman – a former Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Chief – developed Zia’s plan for liberating Kashmir which was put in place in early 1984 and aimed to culminate in an uprising in the valley by 1991. Unlike the plans made in 1947 and 1965, Zia’s plan did not limit itself to the ‘liberation’ of Kashmir – it sought the ‘disintegration’ of India.

HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE OF KASHMIR & WAY FORWARD -I

Rishi Kashyap Jayanti was recently celebrated in India on 10 May 2023. And the G20 Summit was recently held in Srinagar in Kashmir from 22-24 May 2023. These two seemingly different threads – Rishi Kashyap and G20 Summit – are linked by one common foundation – Kashmir. Kashmir’s connection with India and Hinduism can be gauged from the word Kashmir itself – derived from the ancient Sanskrit language. Rishi Kashyap was one of the famed sapt rishis (literally meaning the seven sages) mentioned in the oldest book of the world, Rig Veda, numerous other scriptures and religious treatises written thousands of years ago.

G20 SHERPAS- THE BRIDGE BETWEEN G20 NATIONS

The Group of Twenty Nations, commonly known as the G20 is a premier forum for international economic cooperation. G 20 Comprises of 19 countries and the European Union and it represents more than 85% of the global GDP and two-thirds of the world’s population. While the G20 Summit is the most visible aspect of this forum, it is pertinent to mention the vital role played by the Sherpa Track G20 in shaping the agenda and paving the way for global cooperation. As the world is facing complex challenges, International cooperation and collaboration becomes crucial for addressing global issues.

KASHMIRI ARTISANS & MODERN DAY CHALLENGES

Kashmir is known for its vibrant and diverse artistic heritage, which has been passed down through generations of skilled artisans. However, these artisans face numerous challenges in today’s globalised and modernized world. Globalisation and modernisation on their have had an impact work. Kashmiri artisans have mad their name world in the over their skill in producing a wide range of handicrafts, including shawls, carpets, papier-mache and embroidery. However, these traditional crafts are increasingly being threatened by competition from mass produced goods and modern technology. One of the main challenges faced by Kashmiri artisans is the lack of infrastructure and support for their work. Many artisans work in small, home based workshops without access to modern tools or resources. This makes it difficult for them to compete with large scale producers who have access to modern machinery and technology.

TANGDHAR YOUTH CENTRE

The Tangdhar Youth Centre is a community organization located in Tangdhar, a small town in the Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. The centre was established with the aim of providing the youth of Tangdhar with a platform to engage in activities that would help them develop their skills, build their confidence, and contribute to the betterment of their community.

NATIONAL ANTI-TERRORISM DAY

National Anti Terrorism Day is observed in India on 21st May every year to raise awareness among people about the impact of terrorism on human lives and to encourage them to participate in the fight against terrorism. This day marks the death anniversary of former Prime Minister of India, Rajiv Gandhi, who was assassinated by a suicide bomber on 21 May 1991. Rajiv Gandhi was a strong advocate for peace and harmony, and his untimely death was a huge loss to the nation. The purpose of National Anti Terrorism Day is to raise awareness among people about the dangers of terrorism and to encourage them to participate in the fight against terrorism. Terrorism is a global issue that affects us all, and it is important that we all stand together to combat it. The Indian government organises various events and programs on this day to create awareness about the dangers of terrorism and the need for unity to combat this menace

Hidden Gems of Kashmir: Sagg Eco Village

Sagg Eco Village, an award-winning ecological haven nestled in the breathtaking Harmukh foothills of Kashmir. As pioneers in the region, we integrate natural, cultural, human, and technological resources to build regenerative lifestyles and communities. Our natural farm cultivates organic delights with regenerative agriculture, while our cultural retreat celebrates and shares traditional knowledge and practices.

MOTHER’S DAY

Mother’s Day is celebrated worldwide to honour and appreciate the contributions and sacrifices of mothers in our lives. In the beautiful Kashmir valley, the celebration of Mother’s Day holds a special significance due to the region’s rich cultural and traditional values. Mother’s Day in Kashmir is also celebrated to express gratitude towards mothers and mother…

KASHMIR WELCOMES G-20 SUMMIT

The G-20 is a strategic multilateral forum connecting the world’s major developed and emerging economics. India has worked to maintain the dynamism and credibility of G-20 deliberations for establishing a framework for strong, sustainable and balanced growth. India assuming the presidency of the G-20 grouping is a milestone in itself.

IMPROVEMENT OF INFRASTRUCTURE IN SOPORE POST ABROGATION OF ARTICLE 370

Jammu & Kashmir is observing the 4th year of abrogation of its special constitutional status of Article 370.Talking about Sopore town proper, it is a Sub-district of Baramulla which is situated 48.3km NW of Srinagar and 19.2 km SE of district HQ Baramulla. The people of the region are now getting full benefits of the center’s scheme such as ‘Swachchh Bharat Abhiyan’, ‘Ujjwal Yojna’, ‘Ayusman Yajna’, ‘Direct Benefit Transfer and food subsidy in a transparent manner.

PREYING ON NATURE: A RIVER IN CRISIS

In the beautiful region of Rafiabad, part of the greater district of Baramulla, a beautiful and vast river meanders like a dragon tail. This river is Jhelum. Jhelum streams from North East to South West providing its bountiful life source to the people of Vijibal, Ladura and Chaklu directly and the entire Rafiabad region indirectly.

RAMADAN IN KASHMIR- A MONTH TO PURIFY SOUL & BODY

Ramadan is a time of spiritual renewal and rejuvenation for Muslims in Kashmir, who view it as a blessed opportunity to deepen their faith and seek the mercy and forgiveness of Allah.

BEAUTY OF KASHMIR

Amidst the Himalayas, a valley blooms, A land that exudes beauty and perfume, A paradise on earth, it’s known to be, The land of Kashmir, so en chanting to see. The peaks, the snow, the meadows so green, The river, the lakes, a sight to be seen, The gardens, the flowers, the trees so grand,…

VALLEYS OF KASHMIR

Spring (March to early May) and Summer (early May to late August). The blossoms of spring and the cool weather of summer creates the perfect season to visit Kashmir during this time.

PHOOLON KI HOLI IN KASHMIR: A SYMBOL OF COMMUNAL HARMONY AND BROTHERHOOD

Holi is a vibrant and exuberant festival of colors celebrated with great joy and fervor throughout India. However, in the Kashmir Valley, Holi is celebrated in a unique and distinct way, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage which has its own charm. The Kashmir Valley, located in the northernmost state of Jammu and Kashmir, is…

BHAND-E-PATHER

The music of Kashmir is incomplete without the dance steps which make it a complete package of entertainment. Though Kashmiris do not have a particular form of folk dance, most of them are mixed and are performed along with music. The style of dance which Kashmir has is indeed simple but fabulous at the same…

THE MARKHOR: PRIDE OF KASHMIR

The markhor is the national animal of Pakistan, where it is also known as the screw horn or screw-horned goat, mārkhor (مارخور) in Urdu from Classical Persian.

NATURAL WONDERS AND THE BOOMING TOURISM INDUSTRY IN KASHMIR

True to the word, Kashmir is “the heaven on earth”. While, tourism has seen a new high in the valley, attracting tourists from across the globe and at the same time providing job opportunities and skills to the locals of Kashmir

KUNAN AND POSHPORA : A SMART VILLAGE REVOLUTION

Heroes of Kashmir

KANGDI: AN ANCIENT TOOL TO PROTECT KASHMIRI PEOPLE FROM COLD

Kangdi -An Ancient tool which helps Kashmiri people to live comfortably during severe winter conditions in valley.

MONUMENTS OF KASHMIR

The ancient structures are a treasure of rich history which need care that they stand as testament of the glorious past for generation to come.

TREKKING DELIGHTS

The word Kashmir conjure up enigmatic imagery in one’s mind. The beauty of this land has attracted millions from across the globe.

GRADUAL TRANSFORMATION OF HANDWARA TO MODERNITY

Youth from in and around the area have formed up Independent Youth parties like Youth Civil Society with fond association with one or the other political groups of the region, making these as stepping stones in the future of regional politics.

BAKERIES IN KASHMIR: THE CENTRAL ASIAN CONNECT

A bakery is an establishment that produces and sells flour-based food baked in an oven such as bread, cookies, cakes, donuts, pastries, and pies.

WINTER OPPORTUNITIES FOR FOODIES IN KASHMIR

Experience a symphony of flavours, aromas from the valley at Waves and enjoy traditional delicacies like Gustaba, Rista, Tabakmaaz, Haak, Dhanival Korma and Phirni. So come and enjoy the flavors of paradise….

THE BEAUTY & DIVINITY OF KARNAH

The new concept of border tourism has proved a hit in the Union Territories of Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir with the respective governments.

NEW HOTSPOT OF WINTER TOURISM : TULAIL

The road to Tulail from Gurez passes through scenic landscapes of Kishanganga River. Approx 250 kms from srinagar,one has to cross the wular lake and razdan pass to reach it.

MEERAS MAHAL HERITAGE MUSEUM

It is not the honor that you take with you, but the heritage you leave behind.

PRESERVING HISTORICAL MONUMENTS

A concerted effort to preserve our heritage is a vital link to our cultural, educational, aesthetic, inspirational, and economic legacies – all of the things that quite literally make us who we are.

HIGHER EDUCATION IN KASHMIR VALLEY

“Education is not a problem, Education is an opportunity”

CHANNELISING THE ENERGY OF YOUTH THROUGH SPORTS

The three regions that made up the former state of Jammu and Kashmir were distinguished from one another by their values in terms of religion, culture and tradition. Only sports could bring them together. The administration has traditionally used sports as a tool for reaching out to and reengaging Kashmiri youth. In Jammu and Kashmir,…

SATBARAN CAVE – KALAROOS

Satbaran cave is situated some eight kilometers from the main city Kupwara and 130 kilometers from the capital mega city Srinagar. It is believed that this cave has secret coverts that ahead to Russia. The etymology of the name suggests that these grottoes have some relation to Russia which in Kashmiri language is famous with…

THE REVIVAL OF SERICULTURE IN KASHMIR

One of the important allied sectors that the government has been focusing on in J&K is sericulture, one of the oldest industries in India.

SEZs PAVING THE WAY FOR DEVELOPMENT IN KASHMIR

SEZs are definitely going to bring in new investments in Kashmir, will provide new job opportunities to the youth and going to be one of the several steps in achieving the the aim of economic development in Kashmir.

LAKES AND GARDENS OF KASHMIR VALLEY

Kashmir, abode of lofty snow-capped mountains, lush green meadows, enchanting springs and lakes with vivid flower gardens truly encapsulates the heaven on earth.The whole of Kashmir is a delightful garden made by nature.

IMPROVING INVESTMENT CLIMATE IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR

Since Article 370 was abrogated in August 2019, Jammu and Kashmir has seen several improvements in political and economic landscapes. Due to the country’s strong leadership and increased stability in the region, foreign business houses are considering investment opportunities here like never before. Jammu and Kashmir has now become a subject to 890 central laws,…

CHINAR AND THE AUTUMN BLISS

In Kashmir, autumn season is often referred to as “Harud”. This harvesting season occurs every year in the fall. As the leaves in the valley turn yellow and golden, farmers return to their fields to harvest paddy and saffron as well as select numerous varieties of apples for export. The valley is bathed in a…

KASHMIRI CARPET

Kashmir, the “Heaven on Earth” is not just about the stunning scenic views, but also known for its handicrafts. Kashmiri artwork is known worldwide for its unique artistic work and Kashmiri Carpets, also known as Kashmiri Rugs are undoubtedly the best example of the artwork. The Kashmiri carpets are India’s pride. The carpets are always…

SPIRITUAL SHRINES IN KASHMIR

Kashmir has been a home to varied religions. The valley boasts of having shrines of all religions. Here is a glimpse of such shrines across Kashmir dating back to several centuries.

USTAD BISMILLAH KHAN

This article is in remembrance of the Shehnai maestro Ustad Bismillah Khan, who took the Indian classical music to a next level across the globe and was a epitome of religious unity.

AMARNATH YATRA : SYMBOL OF INTEGRATION

The Amarnath cave of Baba Barfani is the most sought-after pilgrimage for the Hindus. The Amarnath Yatra denotes the Hindu Muslim unity and serves as one of the best examples of secularism in India. It shows how Muslim and Hindu communities live in perfect communal harmony. It is a paradigm to falsify all the wrong perceptions about the situation of peace and harmony in Indian subcontinent. This article brings out such instances which prove how different communities are involved in making “THE AMARNATH YATRA” go smoothly for all the devotees.

WORSHIPPING TOGETHER: UNITY IN DIVERSITY IN THE VALLEY

The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is a land of unity in diversity and reflects the true plural ethos of a secular India wherein people from various communities strive for peace, love & harmony. The festivals of one religion are celebrated with great fervor by different religious communities.

GENTLEMAN TO A MISSILE MAN: A P J ABDUL KALAM AS WE KNOW HIM

There are a few people in this world who lead their lives in such a manner that they become Role Model & source of inspiration for everyone. These words fit perfectly well when we talk about the life of India’s very important personality & 11th President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam whose full name is Avul…

IGNITED MINDS OF KASHMIR : IN CONTINUUM

Kashmiri people’s journey has been a saga of grit, dogged determination and unflinching loyalty which has gone down to annals of Kashmir’s history and an inspiration for numerous youngsters of the valley to emulate. This write up is a tribute to such modern, brave and at times underrated personalities of Kashmir who have gone out to make a difference in their own way.

AMARNATH YATRA: BOOSTING TOURISM & BUSINESS

Kashmir is blessed with a pleasant weather, lakhs & lakh of people travel to the holy cave of Amarnath in South Kashmir to pay their prayers to the ice stalagmite, believed to be an embodiment of the Hindu Deity “Lord Shiva”, situated almost at an elevation of 12,756ft.

BADALTA SOPORE

It has been almost three decade since the militancy had been taken away normalcy in Sopore but now due to changes this place is changing with the positiveness in environment and its amply visible among the people.

BEING A GUREZI IS A PROUD FEELING

Being a Gurezi is the secret to the elixir of life.

JOURNEY TO HOLY CAVE

Amarnath Yatra, A journey of faith.

TRYST WITH HEAVEN

“ Gar firdaus bar rue zameen ast/hameen asto, hameen asto, hameen ast” (If ever there is Paradise on Earth/It is here!)

ROMUT NAFAR: A MISSING MAN

To all Anti-nationals Conflict Stakeholders, You can take man out of Kashmir but cannot take Kashmiriyat full of patriotism out of a man.

THE FORGOTTEN FACE OF KASHMIRIYAT

Kashmir is our homeland, this is where i was born and this is where i will live. I believe in Kashmiriyat and Kashmir will take care of me.

RESURGENCE OF TRICOLOUR IN KASHMIR VALLEY : A CATALYST IN NATIONAL INTEGRATION

Empowering women will empower our country. Jameela Bano, instructor in the Tailoring and Embroidery center, express that,”the army is serving the country by wearing the uniform meanwhile we are contributing in increasing the feeling of patriotism by making the tricolor.”

RISING EXPECTATIONS OF AWAAM AS INDIAN ARMY DELIVERS

The Indian Army stands tall with the reputation of being a beacon showing light to the people of Kashmir and the idea of Naya Kashmir.

REQUIREMENT TO IMPROVE RURAL TOURISM IN JAMMU & KASHMIR

There are many destinations which are much better than the existing tourist spots but due to underdeveloped or non-existing infrastructure for tourists; there is hardly any flow of tourists to these places.

SUFISM: THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE HEARTS

The Sufi saints played an important role in bringing the Muslims and Hindus together. They used local language to make religion accessible and meaningful to the common people.

RELEVANCE OF SHARADA PEETH IN KASHMIR VALLEY

Sharada Peeth, meaning ‘the Seat of Sharada’ is said to be a renowned ancient center of learning where the texts written by great Sanskrit scholars and grammarians like Adi Shankara, Virotsana and Kalhana were stored.

SOPORE: TURNING THE TIDE

Over the years there has been a transformational shift in North Kashmir which can now be seen as a progressive region of UT of Jammu and Kashmir. Even the few ‘disturbed’ pockets, are now at the cusp of leaving the baggage of terrorism behind.

RAMADAN KAREEM

Prayers, donations and food for the month of Ramadan are characteristics of the Muslim majority valley. The streets lit up with festive colours and the mosques echoed with prayers. After a pre-prepared meal, the air is filled for prayers and hundreds of people fill the mosques and shrines, looking at the landscape of the valley.

ECONOMIC INITIATIVES IN VALLEY: UAE BUSINESS DELEGATION VISITS KASHMIR

More than two years of the removal of Article 370, the weather in J&K has improved with the showers of investments pouring all the way.

LAL CHOWK: SYMBOL OF KASHMIRIYAT

Lal Chowk is equivalent in its name and well known as an old business centre since decades in Srinagar like famous Delhi’s Connaught Place. Its an attraction centre for local and outside tourists.

GILGIT BALTISTAN VS REST OF UNION TERRITORY OF J&K AND LADAKH

People of UT of j&k have realised the actual meaning of “Azadi” which is education, better living conditions and peace, contrary to what they were made to believe earlier by anti-nationalists. But still a lot more has to be done with consistent and honest efforts of all stakeholders.

NATION BUILDING & J&K – ARE WE HEADING THE RIGHT WAY?

Nation-building aims at the unification of the people within the state so that it remains politically stable and viable in the long run. Nation-building in Indian concept is the process whereby a society of people with diverse origins, histories, languages, cultures and religions come together within the boundaries of a sovereign state with a unified constitutional and legal dispensation.

DEVELOPMENT AGENDA OF SOPORE

Sopore is known as an orchard town of the Kashmir valley. Horticulture has a great importance in the region as its share makes a handsome contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the region.

LANDSCAPE OF JAMMU & KASHMIR

For most the word Kashmir springs an image of mountains in their mind, but the state offers a lot more. From the plains of Jammu to the glaciers of Siachen, a lot is hidden in 40000 Sq. kilometers of area of the state.

KASHMIRIYAT & SUFISM IN SLOW MOTION

Kashmiriyat, when experienced as a culture is so syncretic that it inspires and epitomizes the co-existence of the unity of nature and humanity.When Kashmiriyat is recognized as a belief is a fusion of four major traditions. aboriginal unification philosophy and popular wisdom of Kuran, Buddhist, and Sikhism.