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…
Category: Motivation
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…
THE RISE OF GULMARG AS INDIA’S TOP SKI DESTINATION
Nestled in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas, Gulmarg, meaning “Meadow of Flowers,” has blossomed into India’s premier skiing destination. Once known for its lush summer meadows and colonial charm, Gulmarg is now attracting adventure enthusiasts from across the globe, eager to experience its snow-clad slopes and world-class skiing facilities. Gulmarg’s transformation into a…
WOMEN’S EDUCATION IN KASHMIR
Education is a fundamental right and a powerful tool for social transformation. In Kashmir, women’s education has witnessed a significant evolution over the years, shaped by cultural, historical and political factors. While strides have been made towards gender equality in education, numerous challenges persist, requiring continuous efforts from the government, civil society and local communities….
IMPACT OF VANDE BHARAT EXPRESS ON KASHMIR
“Happiness is just a train ride away” With the inception of Vande Bharat in valley, the quote above seems to be true for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. 15 February 2015, the day of commencement of first Vande Bharat Express marked a revolutionary day not only for the Indian Railways but also for the…
CELEBRATING NATIONAL GIRL CHILD DAY: INSPIRING STORIES FROM KASHMIR
National Girl Child Day, celebrated every year on January 24th, is a day dedicated to acknowledging the rights, achievements and potential of girls across India. Established by the Ministry of Women and Child Development in 2008, this day highlights the need for equal opportunities, gender equality, and the eradication of discrimination faced by girl child….
UNIFIED IN LIGHT: EKTA DIWAS AND DIWALI AS BEACONS OF SOLIDARITY
Certain events transcend mere celebration in the Indian cultural and national landscape, carrying a more profound significance rooted in unity, solidarity, and resilience. Two such events are Ekta Diwas, National Unity Day and Diwali, the festival of lights. Both hold a profound importance, not just as festive occasions but as catalysts for national integration and…
DEEPAWALI: THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AND ITS CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
Deepawali, or Diwali, is one of the most significant and widely celebrated festivals in India, known as the “Festival of Lights.” This ancient Hindu festival, which typically spans five days, falls in the Hindu lunar month of Kartika (October-November). Deepawali represents the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. It…
KASHMIR REJOICES: WORLD SMILE DAY
AND THE PROMISE OF A BETTER TOMORROW POST-370 World Smile Day, celebrated every year on the first Friday of October, 4th October this time around, is a global celebration of kindness and optimism that holds profound significance in the context of Kashmir. Historically marred by conflict and uncertainty, the region is now on a path…
INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR PEACE: INDIA’S COMMITMENT TO GLOBAL HARMONY
September 21st of each year marks a privileged day for the world to come together and celebrate the International Day for Peace a day meant to further open the gates toward global harmony and unity. As we are living in a world filled with conflict and division, this day serves as the most powerful reminder…
GENDER DYNAMICS IN KASHMIR: SHIFTING NARRATIVES & EMPOWERMENT
The landscape of gender dynamics in Kashmir is even evolving. Historically, Kashmiri women have played multifaceted roles within their communities, navigating both traditional structures and emerging aspirations. Today, a confluence of factors – social activism, educational opportunities and the changing political climate – is prompting a significant shift in these dynamics paving the way for…
TITHWAL BRIDGE, A TESTAMENT TO COURAGE AND HISTORIC TRIUMPH
The breathtaking and awe-inspiring natural beauty of the landscape in the Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir, coupled with the strategic Tithwal Bridge, creates a scene that captivates observers with its scenic charm and historical significance. The bridge stands tall as a symbol of indomitable courage and historic importance; it is also, at times, known…
SPORTS AND WOMEN: A KASHMIR STORY
In the picturesque landscape of Kashmir, a quiet revolution is unfolding as women defy societal norms and carve a niche for themselves in the world of sports. Against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains, the stories of female athletes like Nadiya Nighat, Bilquis Mir, and Sadia Tariq have become beacons of inspiration, challenging stereotypes and rewriting…
FOLKLORES OF KASHMIR NEED REVIVAL
The folklores of Kashmir have an important place in the culture of India, which is very interesting, enchanting and has rich historical significance. Kashmiri, the major language of the region, is an offshoot of Sanskrit which was further enriched by Persian influence during Muslim rule and later by Urdu. Its rich vibrant lives in its…
VALLEY’S NEW GENERATION TURNING THE TIDE: THE NCC CADETS OF KERAN
Impeccable appearance in uniform, synchronized drill movements, crisp word of command and future aspirations reflecting as a glimmer in eyes to serve as a soldier, these are the attributes one notices in NCC cadets in the valley of Kashmir. Usually, such introductions are associated with the Republic Day Parade in New Delhi but the same…
WINTER’S EMBRACE: A GLIMPSE INTO KASHMIR VALLEY’S SEASON OF TRANQUILITY
As autumn’s vibrant hues gradually fade into a sepia-toned landscape, a palpable sense of anticipation fills the air in the picturesque Kashmir Valley. With each passing day, whispers of “Winter as coming” ripple through this serene expanse, awakening a unique charm that only the onset of winter can bestow. Nestled amid the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, this valley undergoes a stunning transformation as winter unveils its icy veil. The transition from autumn to winter in Kashmir is an exquisite spectacle. As the last russet leaves fall from the Chinar trees, the valley awakens to the first whispers of winter’s breath. The once-lush orchards, adorned with apples and cherries, are now enveloped in frost, creating a surreal dreamscape. The air, crisp and pure, carries with it a promise of tranquility and renewal.
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.
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
MEERAS MAHAL HERITAGE MUSEUM
It is not the honor that you take with you, but the heritage you leave behind.
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…
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…
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.
UBAID NAZIR: THE CYCLE ENTREPRENEUR OF KASHMIR
New ideas & positive thoughts bring innovative changes in the society for its betterment. 25 year old Ubaid Nazir , a resident of Bemna locality of Srinagar recently started a Bike Rental Startup named CIECLO in order to improve the facilities of micro mobility in the city and help in reducing the level of pollution…
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…