Introduction to KashmirForum.org Blog
Vijay K. Sazawal, Ph.D.
I launched the website and the Blog after undertaking a thorough search of literature dealing with Kashmir. Finding existing choices that varied from harsh zealotry as expressed by multiple political antagonists and religious bigots, I undertook multiple visits to the valley to make a first hand assessment of the situation as well as seek input from those on the ground – common people, civic and academic leaders of both genders, minorities, and bureaucrats both in Srinagar and New Delhi. After having spoken to government officials, political analysts and security experts specializing in South Asian affairs from three continents, it became clear to me that when Kashmiris are suffering and the world has its own set of prior-
-ities, we need to find ways to help each other. We must be realistic, go beyond polemics and demagoguery, and propose innovative ideas that will bring peace, justice and prosperity to all the peoples of Jammu and Kashmir. Above all, it is incomprehensive how violence can lead to any political closure or human justice when it simply impedes any healing, development or normalcy.
We encourage hearing from the disfranchised “silent majority” in Jammu and Kashmir. Please send your comments by contacting us. Thank you.
A Forgotten Art
Iqbal laments the loss of yet another Kashmiri handicraft (Mr. Iqbal Ahmad, 49, was born in Parigam Chek, Kulgam. He is a graduate with Diploma in Numismatics, Archaeology and Heritage. He is an archaeologist, writer, and a cultural historian. He is employed by the...
The Double Edged Sword
Shafi points to the double tragedy of dying art and increasing unemployment as Kashmiri handicraft trade slows down (Mr. Mohammad Shafi Ayaz, 47, was born in Anantnag, and continues to live in the same town. He studied in various state schools, colleges and...
Down the Memory Lane
Fida saw flashes of harmony and Brotherhood. What he missed is anguish. Other than rhetoric and handouts, the majority community still does not comprehend the deep chasm that keeps Pandits away (Mr. Fida Iqbal, 47, was born in Sopore. He attended the D.A.V. School in...
Saffron and Silk
Sana says the days of fragrance and imperial texture are numbered Saffron and Silk Wither in the Valley Sana Altaf Srinagar: The saffron and silk industries in Kashmir have been dying a silent death over the last decade, with production rates for both commodities...
Is Kashmiri Culture Out of Fashion?
Mukhtar examines the language and attire of Kashmiris, and concludes that Kashmiri culture is dying Kashmiri Dies Slowly as Youth Shoulder its Coffin Mukhtar Ahmed (Kashmir Images) Srinagar: Unlike in the past when Kashmiri was the principal source of communication...
The Shopian Tragedy
The author investigated the Shopian murders long before the CBI inquiry. The results were same then as now - that the truth was cast aside in favor of political shenanigans and outright lies. Author's report can be accessed at:...
Women’s Healthcare
Dr, Zahida Shah, the force behind "Mothercare Clinic" conducts a workshop on women's obesity (Dr.Zahida Shah, 42, was born in Srinagar and finished her schooling from the Presentation Convent School , Srinagar. Dr.Zahida completed her Medical degree from the...
Social Activism
Ahmad represents the best among social activists. He wrote a compelling letter on a basic need, and the article on banking shows his desire to inform the public (Mr. Ghulam Ahmad Reshi ("Ahmad Kashmiri"), 43, was born in Tangmarg. He attended the Government Middle...
Eve Teasing
Shafi highlights challenges faced by women in a male dominated society (Mr. Shafi A. Athar, 54, was born in Khrew and completed his high school education at the Government High School in Khrew. He graduated from the Sri Pratap College Srinagar, and received a Post...
The Woeful State of Kashmir’s Healthcare System
Kashmir's healthcare system needs a massive overhaul. Does anyone care? Fida's commentary followed by two related articles (Mr. Fida Iqbal, 47, was born in Sopore. He attended the D.A.V. School in Nayadyaar, Rainawari, and the Government Higher Secondary School in...