Cultural Heritage Of Kashmiri Pandits

Kashmir is not merely a geo-space, but is the geo-cultural matrix from which thoughts and concepts embedded in the depths of the consciousness of its people have emanated, giving shape to their civilizational ethos. The history of Kashmiri Pandits has been synonymous with the core of values derived from the intimacy between man and nature.

Situated at the crossroads of South and Central Asia, the State of Jammu and Kashmir has made a lasting contribution to Indian philosophy, arts and aesthetics, and historiography. Numerous sacred shrines of Jammu and Kashmir are revered and regularly visited by millions. Powerful cultural movements developed and spread not only to other parts of India but beyond India's borders.

Cultural Heritage Of Kashmir By Prof. K.L. Kalla, Presents A Panoramic View Of The Cultural History Of Kashmir Since The Days When Kashmir Was A Seat Of Learning Sharda Peetha And Buddism. It Also Details Its Eternal Charm And Glory, Important Events In History Of Kashmir, Festivals, Composite Culture, Language And Literature, And Impact Of English On The People Of Kashmir. The Reasons For Initiation Of Terrorism In Kashmir Also Find A Place In This Book. The Book Makes A Very Interesting Study On Kashmir In A Very Lucid Style.

The Kashmiri Pandits have long played a vital role in Indian politics, and have made outstanding contributions to Indian culture and society. This study attempts to present a balanced history of the Pandits, drawing on both documented fact and legendary history. An important focus of the latter analysis is the use made, by a group vulnerable to changes in the "host" society, of reconstructed versions of historical tradition when the need to conform assumed primary importance. Sender consequently provides an invaluable analysis of the nature of a minority cultural group.

Traces The Journey Of The Land And People From Ancient To The Modern Day. Captures The Factors For The Decline Of Kashmiri Civilization From Glory To The Present State Of Murder And Repire. The Author Hopes The Worst Is Over And The Old Practices Of Kashmiriyat Will Return.

Contributed articles presented at the National Seminar on "Kashmiri Pandits: Looking Ahead" held on March 12, 2000; on various facets of the cultural, spiritual, and other aspects of life of Kashmiri Pandits.

The Book Arises Out Of A Seminar Held In 2001. Papers Collected In The Volume Cover A Wide Range Of Social, Cultural Scholastic And Artistic Aspirations Of Kasmiri Pandits - And The Topics Of Interest To Them. Quite A Few Relate To Kashmiri Pandits In Delhi. (8 Chapters - Figures.)