#Kashmiri Poet

[limusss]

The world is full of paper.

Write to me !

Agha Shahid Ali --

[purplepencilproject]

Some, who have closed their eyes, are wide awake. Some, who look out at the world, are fast asleep. Some who bathe in sacred pools remain dirty. Some are at home in the world but keep their hands clean.

Lal Ded

[kimskashmir]

Missing Kashmiri poet traced to police custody in PoK

ISLAMABAD — A missing Kashmiri poet has been traced to be in the custody of police in the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), the Islamabad High Court was informed on Wednesday, two weeks after he disappeared from Rawalpindi. Ahmad Farhad’s wife had filed a petition in the Islamabad High Court (IHC) claiming that he had been abducted from his home. When neither police nor any intelligence agency…

[feel-the-waves]

My heart of dandelion flew away

Carrying the wishes of a thousand hopeful souls

~sadia

[dreamertrilogys]

Land by Agha Shahid Ali (1949-2001), a Kashmiri American Muslim poet

[notanartist143]

Songs Bertie sings in the bath (according to Wodehouse himself)

"Sonny Boy" (really just a loving song abt a father & his son, Bertie ends up singing it on stage tho & if I remember correctly he says he'd never sing it again, tho I think in a later book its mentioned that he is singing it in the bath? not sure tbh)

"Kashmiri Song- Pale Hands I Loved" (though often sung by a male it was written by woman poet Laurence Hope & tells a heartbreaking tale in which the narrator has fallen in love with what is implied to be a woman)

Upon Jeeve's return from his vacation & (according to Bertie) recited in about half a minute in the following order: "Ah Sweet Mystery of Life (tis' love)", "Roll Out the Barrel (for the gangs' all here)", "I Love a Lassie" [incidentally enough this song mentions facial hair– which Bertie has grown over Jeeves's absence– being rubbed off by the Lassie's cheek, tho what he's grown is a mustache so we know how that'd work (Jeeves would have to use his lips), plus the singer going bald from her pats but "I know she means no harm"], "Everyday I Bring thee Violets" [Possibly referring to the song Violets by Ellen Wright or Every Morn I Bring Thee Violets by Silvio Stein]

"She Didn't Say Yes (She Didn't Say No)" (the context upon mention doesn't really provide much, Bertie just simply told Aunt Dahlia he sings that song)

[humanrightsupdates]

Urgent Action: JOURNALIST AND POET ABDUCTED IN PAKISTAN (Pakistan 46.24)

On May 15, 2024, Ahmad Farhad, a Kashmiri journalist and poet, was forcibly disappeared from his home in the capital city of Pakistan, Islamabad, and his whereabouts remain unknown. The police initially refused to file a First Information Report (FIR), and one was subsequently filed on the orders of the Islamabad High Court. Information regarding Ahmad’s whereabouts must be made known, and he must be released immediately. The authorities must ensure an effective, prompt, thorough, independent, and impartial investigation is conducted into the circumstances of Ahmad’s enforced disappearance.

PLEASE TAKE ACTION AS SOON AS POSSIBLE UNTIL: July 15, 2024

TAKE ACTION:

Write a letter in your own words or using the sample below as a guide to one or both government officials listed. You can also email, fax, call or Tweet them.

Click here to let us know the actions you took on Urgent Action 46.24. It’s important to report because we share the total number with the officials we are trying to persuade and the people we are trying to help.

[nando161mando]

"The UAPA – under which the prosecution has been granted – is unconstitutional and undemocratic, say critics. UAPA, ostensibly a terrorism prevention law, has been routinely used by the Modi government to try to silence government critics, including lawyers, activists, journalists, priests, poets, academics, civil society members, and Kashmiri civilians."

[expressions-lsr]

‧͙✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧‧͙✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*

The Team; Introduction

‧͙✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧‧͙✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*

Content and Research Team

Meet the Heads:

Priyadarshini Stuti

( @rain-rhapsody )

“The sky is dimlit; air is crisp The leaves drip with dew drops, Oh! Why is the Moon so small tonight?”

A dreamer, and a hopeless romantic… I guess that’s what you’d call a poet :3

Cat whisperer. Caffeine addict. Avid fan of russian literature. And a collector of kaomojis /ᐠ .⋏. ᐟ\ﾉ ♡

[Read Priyadarshini's piece here]

Siddhi Kaul

"When winter comes, can spring be far behind?" A second year econ student, Siddhi has a neverending love for coffee and fluffy dogs. She loves putting her thoughts into words through poetry and occasionally songwriting. A desi hiphop, bollywood and kashmiri (she's kashmiri) music enthusiast, you can always find her complaining about the long college hours and explaining the lyricism of her newest song obsession to her friends, while eating an ice-cream sandwich."

[Read Siddhi's piece here]

Meet the Sub-Head:

Tejaswini

“She writes the poetry She dreams to live.”

Yes the quote is the other way and around and yes, I am pretentious enough to refer to myself in third person. =)

Hello hello I’m Tejaswini, A second year student majoring in History with a minor in Political Science.

I’m a cynical hopeless romantic that is a sucker for stories, and by default, a certified bookworm, as well as an unsponsored promoter for V.E. Schwab, one of my favorite authors.

I’m also obsessed with Formula 1 and tend to allegedly make it my entire personality on race weekends.

Ever since my mom dumped me in the library when I was 3 (I was a yappy kid. Am.) Words have always been my escape, I’ve learnt to find and be myself in between pages.

I believe I am bewildering (confusing but comes across as mysterious, usually works for me until you actually get to know me. I’m weird), gravely inept (no social skills) in conveying my complex and deep emotions by conversation, and pretentious (we talked about this earlier). And this is, by the legends, the perfect combination to make you an incredible writer. Can’t comment on the incredible part, but I do try to write when I’m overwhelmed; which is pretty much all the time.

Expressions has been my place to let out all my guarded thoughts and restrained feelings, as well as what motivates me to keep going when I’m having writer’s block. (deadlines are very humbling:)

On a whole I’m just a person that’s killing it at life (barely getting across).

But I’m learning to love everything bit by bit.

[Read Tejaswini's piece here]

[curtwilde]

Calling Kashmiri artists and poets Indian is a microaggression btw.

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 8.12 (after 1900)

1914 – World War I: The United Kingdom and the British Empire declare war on Austria-Hungary. 1914 – World War I: The Battle of Halen a.k.a. Battle of the Silver Helmets a clash between large Belgian and German cavalry formations at Halen, Belgium. 1944 – Waffen-SS troops massacre 560 people in Sant'Anna di Stazzema. 1944 – Nazi German troops end the week-long Wola massacre, during which time at least 40,000 people are killed indiscriminately or in mass executions. 1944 – Alençon is liberated by General Philippe Leclerc de Hauteclocque, the first city in France to be liberated from the Nazis by French forces. 1948 – Babrra massacre: About 600 unarmed members of the Khudai Khidmatgar movement are shot dead on the orders of the Chief Minister of the North-West Frontier Province, Abdul Qayyum Khan Kashmiri, on Babrra ground in the Hashtnagar region of Charsadda District, North-West Frontier Province (now Khyber Pakhtunkhwa), Pakistan. 1950 – Korean War: Bloody Gulch massacre: Seventy-five American POWs are massacred by the North Korean Army. 1952 – The Night of the Murdered Poets: Thirteen prominent Jewish intellectuals are murdered in Moscow, Russia, Soviet Union. 1953 – First thermonuclear bomb test: The Soviet atomic bomb project continues with the detonation of "RDS-6s" (Joe 4) using a "layered" scheme. 1953 – The 7.2 Ms  Ionian earthquake shakes the southern Ionian Islands with a maximum Mercalli intensity of X (Extreme). Between 445 and 800 people are killed. 1960 – Echo 1A, NASA's first successful communications satellite, is launched.x 1964 – South Africa is banned from the Olympic Games due to the country's racist policies. 1969 – Violence erupts after the Apprentice Boys of Derry march in Derry, Northern Ireland, resulting in a three-day communal riot known as the Battle of the Bogside. 1976 – Between 1,000 and 3,500 Palestinians are killed in the Tel al-Zaatar massacre, one of the bloodiest events of the Lebanese Civil War. 1977 – The first free flight of the Space Shuttle Enterprise. 1977 – The Sri Lanka Riots: Targeting the minority Sri Lankan Tamils, begin, less than a month after the United National Party came to power. Over 300 Tamils are killed. 1981 – The IBM Personal Computer is released. 1985 – Japan Airlines Flight 123 crashes into Osutaka ridge in Gunma Prefecture, Japan, killing 520, to become the worst single-plane air disaster. 1990 – Sue, the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton found to date, is discovered by Sue Hendrickson in South Dakota. 1992 – Canada, Mexico and the United States announce completion of negotiations for the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). 1994 – Major League Baseball players go on strike, eventually forcing the cancellation of the 1994 World Series. 2000 – The Russian Navy submarine Kursk explodes and sinks in the Barents Sea during a military exercise, killing her entire 118-man crew. 2015 – At least two massive explosions kill 173 people and injure nearly 800 more in Tianjin, China. 2016 – Syrian civil war: The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) capture the city of Manbij from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). 2018 – Thirty-nine civilians, including a dozen children, are killed in an explosion at a weapons depot in Sarmada, Syria. 2021 – Six people, five victims and the perpetrator are killed in Keyham, Plymouth in the worst mass shooting in the UK since 2010.

[limusss]

I balanced on the tip of your smile holding onto your words..

Agha Shahid Ali - The veiled suite

[kashmirdmc12]

Jammu Kashmir Package

Kashmir Tour Package: Your Gateway to Paradise

Kashmir, fondly known as "Paradise on Earth," is a destination that captures the hearts of travelers worldwide. Nestled in the northernmost region of India, this picturesque landscape boasts snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and serene lakes that have fascinated poets and adventurers for centuries. If you're seeking an unforgettable experience, a Kashmir tour package from Kashmir DMC is the perfect way to explore this enchanting region.

Why Choose a Kashmir Tour Package?

A well-curated Kashmir tour package offers an all-in-one solution for those who want to experience the diverse beauty and culture of this region. From the mesmerizing Dal Lake in Srinagar to the alpine meadows of Gulmarg and the spiritual aura of Amarnath, Kashmir has something for everyone. Here’s why booking a package with Kashmir DMC is a game-changer:

Hassle-Free Travel: Our comprehensive packages cover everything from transportation and accommodation to guided tours and meal plans, ensuring a stress-free journey.

Expert Guidance: With our local expertise, you’ll gain insights into hidden gems and cultural nuances that make your trip even more special.

Customized Experiences: Whether you’re an adventurer looking for trekking and skiing or a family seeking peaceful sightseeing, our packages are tailored to suit your interests.

Top Attractions in a Kashmir Tour Package

Srinagar: The summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar is famous for its pristine Dal Lake, vibrant houseboats, and Mughal gardens like Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh. A Shikara ride on Dal Lake, especially at sunset, is a must-do activity for a romantic or serene experience.

Gulmarg: Known as the “Meadow of Flowers,” Gulmarg is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. In winter, it transforms into a premier skiing destination with some of the best slopes in Asia. The Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.

Pahalgam: This charming town serves as the starting point for the annual Amarnath Yatra and is also known for its picturesque landscapes. The Lidder River running through Pahalgam provides opportunities for trout fishing and rafting, making it a perfect spot for outdoor activities.

Sonmarg: Translating to “Meadow of Gold,” Sonmarg is a must-visit for its panoramic views of glaciers and towering mountain ranges. Treks to Thajiwas Glacier and pony rides are popular among tourists seeking a touch of adventure.

Leisure Activities: Beyond sightseeing, Kashmir offers numerous activities such as shopping for Pashmina shawls, Kashmiri carpets, and saffron. Don’t miss tasting traditional Kashmiri cuisine like Rogan Josh, Yakhni, and the iconic Kahwa tea.

Best Time to Visit Kashmir

The ideal time to explore Kashmir depends on your interests:

Spring (March to May): Witness the valley blooming with tulips and vibrant flowers.

Summer (June to August): Experience pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Winter (December to February): Enjoy snowfall and indulge in winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding in Gulmarg.

Why Kashmir DMC for Your Kashmir Tour Package?

At Kashmir DMC, we take pride in offering meticulously crafted packages that cater to all types of travelers. Our team of experienced professionals ensures you have an authentic and seamless experience from start to finish. With competitive pricing, customizable itineraries, and unparalleled service, Kashmir DMC guarantees a memorable journey that will leave you longing for more.

So, why wait? Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our exclusive Kashmir tour package and discover the unmatched beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality of this heavenly destination. Let Kashmir DMC be your trusted partner in creating cherished memories that last a lifetime.

[sanjogitakiduniya]

Lal Ded: The Mystic Poet of Kashmir

English Version:

Lal Ded, also known as Lalleshwari, is one of the most revered mystic poets of Kashmir. Born in the 14th century, Lal Ded's life and work have had an enduring impact on Kashmiri culture, spirituality, and literature. She is regarded as a saint, a spiritual guide, and an iconic figure whose poetry transcends time and place. Known for her deep spirituality and profound insights into life, Lal Ded’s verses reflect a fusion of mysticism, devotion, and social consciousness.

Life and Legacy

Lal Ded was born into a Kashmiri Pandit family in the village of Pandrethan, near Srinagar, in Kashmir. Her early life was marked by personal suffering, which often inspired the themes in her poetry. She was married at a young age, but her marriage was not a happy one. After facing emotional and spiritual turmoil, Lal Ded left her family and began wandering, seeking solace in the natural world and in spiritual practices.

It is said that Lal Ded was greatly influenced by the teachings of the Sufi mystics who came to Kashmir during the 14th century. The Sufi tradition of Kashmir blended Islamic mysticism with the region’s Hindu philosophy, and this fusion is clearly reflected in Lal Ded's poetry. She began writing verses known as "Lal Vakhs", which were written in the Kashmiri language and conveyed the deepest truths about human existence, the nature of the divine, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.

Themes of Lal Ded's Poetry

Lal Ded's poetry primarily focuses on themes such as:

Self-realization and Spiritual Liberation: Lal Ded's verses emphasize the importance of seeking truth within oneself. She encourages individuals to transcend outward rituals and material attachments and to look inward for spiritual enlightenment.

The Unity of God: Her poems reflect a deep understanding of the oneness of God. In her view, the divine is present in everything, and true spirituality involves experiencing this unity through love, devotion, and self-awareness.

Rejection of Superficial Rituals: Lal Ded was critical of ritualistic practices and dogma that often overshadow true spiritual growth. Her poems encourage people to break free from the constraints of formal religion and connect with the divine on a personal level.

Love and Compassion: Love, both for the divine and for fellow human beings, is central to Lal Ded’s teachings. Her poetry often speaks of divine love as a force that transcends religious differences and brings all souls together.

Lal Ded’s Influence

Lal Ded’s impact on Kashmiri culture and spiritual life is immeasurable. Her poetry, which was passed down orally for generations, forms an integral part of Kashmiri folk culture. The mystic poet's works were an essential part of the Bhakti movement in India, which sought to unite people through love and devotion to God, beyond the confines of caste, religion, and ritual.

Even today, her verses are recited by Kashmiri Pandits and Muslims alike, demonstrating the universality of her teachings. Her philosophy also resonates with contemporary movements that promote tolerance, love, and spiritual awakening.

Lal Ded's poetry remains a source of inspiration for people across the world. Her verses have not only enriched the spiritual landscape of Kashmir but have also offered profound insights into the universal human quest for meaning, truth, and inner peace. She is remembered not only for her literary brilliance but for her deep devotion and her unwavering commitment to the search for spiritual truth.

Hindi Version:

लाल देद: कश्मीर की रहस्यमयी कवि

लाल देद, जिन्हें Lalleshwari के नाम से भी जाना जाता है, कश्मीर की सबसे प्रतिष्ठित रहस्यमयी कवियों में से एक हैं। 14वीं सदी में जन्मी, लाल देद का जीवन और उनके काव्य ने कश्मीरी संस्कृति, आध्यात्मिकता और साहित्य पर गहरा प्रभाव डाला है। उन्हें एक संत, एक आध्यात्मिक मार्गदर्शक और एक प्रतीकात्मक व्यक्तित्व के रूप में पूजा जाता है, जिनकी कविताएँ समय और स्थान की सीमाओं को पार करती हैं। अपनी गहरी आध्यात्मिकता और जीवन के प्रति गहरे दृष्टिकोण के लिए प्रसिद्ध, लाल देद की कविताएँ रहस्यवाद, भक्ति और सामाजिक चेतना का अद्भुत मिश्रण प्रस्तुत करती हैं।

जीवन और धरोहर

लाल देद का जन्म कश्मीर के श्रीनगर के पास पंद्रेथन गाँव में एक कश्मीरी पंडित परिवार में हुआ था। उनके जीवन की शुरुआत व्यक्तिगत कष्टों से भरी थी, जो अक्सर उनकी कविताओं के विषय बने। उनका विवाह बचपन में हुआ था, लेकिन उनका वैवाहिक जीवन सुखद नहीं था। व्यक्तिगत और आध्यात्मिक संकटों का सामना करने के बाद, लाल देद ने अपने परिवार को छोड़ दिया और आत्म-साक्षात्कार के लिए भटकने लगीं।

कहा जाता है कि लाल देद पर 14वीं सदी में कश्मीर में आए सूफी रहस्यमियों का गहरा प्रभाव था। कश्मीर के सूफी परंपरा ने इस्लामी रहस्यवाद और हिंदू दर्शन का अद्भुत मिलाजुला रूप प्रस्तुत किया, जो स्पष्ट रूप से लाल देद की कविताओं में दिखता है। उन्होंने अपनी कविताओं को कश्मीरी भाषा में लिखा, जिन्हें "लाल वाख" कहा जाता है, और इन कविताओं में मानव जीवन, ईश्वर के स्वभाव और आध्यात्मिक मुक्ति के प्रति गहरी सच्चाईयाँ व्यक्त की गईं।

लाल देद की कविताओं के प्रमुख विषय

लाल देद की कविताओं में मुख्य रूप से निम्नलिखित विषय होते हैं:

आत्म-साक्षात्कार और आध्यात्मिक मुक्ति: लाल देद की कविताएँ आत्मा के भीतर सत्य की खोज पर जोर देती हैं। वे लोगों को बाहरी अनुष्ठानों और भौतिक बंधनों से ऊपर उठकर आत्म-ज्ञान और आध्यात्मिक जागृति की दिशा में बढ़ने का मार्गदर्शन करती हैं।

ईश्वर की एकता: उनकी कविताओं में ईश्वर की एकता का गहरा दर्शन है। उनके अनुसार, ईश्वर हर वस्तु में विद्यमान है, और सच्ची आध्यात्मिकता का अर्थ है इस एकता का अनुभव करना।

सांस्कृतिक और धार्मिक कर्मकांडों का परित्याग: लाल देद ने धार्मिक कर्मकांडों और रूढ़िवादिता की आलोचना की, जो अक्सर सच्ची आध्यात्मिक प्रगति में अवरोध उत्पन्न करते हैं। उनकी कविताएँ लोगों को पारंपरिक धार्मिक सीमाओं से ऊपर उठकर ईश्वर से व्यक्तिगत जुड़ाव की आवश्यकता की बात करती हैं।

प्रेम और करुणा: लाल देद की कविताओं में प्रेम, खासकर ईश्वर के प्रति और मानवता के प्रति प्रेम, का प्रमुख स्थान है। वे प्रेम को एक ऐसी शक्ति मानती हैं जो धार्मिक भेदभावों को पार करती है और सभी आत्माओं को एकजुट करती है।

लाल देद का प्रभाव

लाल देद का कश्मीरी संस्कृति और आध्यात्मिक जीवन पर अनमोल प्रभाव पड़ा है। उनकी कविताएँ, जो पीढ़ी दर पीढ़ी मौखिक रूप से传 की गईं, कश्मीरी लोकसंस्कृति का अभिन्न हिस्सा बन चुकी हैं। उनकी रचनाएँ भारतीय भक्ति आंदोलन का एक महत्वपूर्ण हिस्सा थीं, जो प्रेम और भक्ति के माध्यम से लोगों को एकजुट करने का प्रयास कर रहा था।

आज भी, उनकी कविताओं का पाठ कश्मीरी पंडितों और मुसलमानों द्वारा समान रूप से किया जाता है, जो उनके शिक्षाओं की सार्वभौमिकता को दर्शाता है। उनकी आध्यात्मिकता और प्रेम की दृष्टि आज भी समकालीन आंदोलनों में प्रासंगिक है जो सहिष्णुता, प्रेम और आध्यात्मिक जागरण को बढ़ावा देते हैं।

लाल देद की कविताएँ आज भी लोगों के लिए प्रेरणा का स्रोत बनी हुई हैं। उनकी कविताएँ न केवल कश्मीर के आध्यात्मिक परिदृश्य को समृद्ध करती हैं, बल्कि जीवन, सत्य और आंतरिक शांति की ओर मानवता की सार्वभौमिक खोज को भी उजागर करती हैं। वे न केवल अपनी साहित्यिक प्रतिभा के लिए याद की जाती हैं, बल्कि उनके अडिग विश्वास और आध्यात्मिक सत्य की खोज के प्रति प्रतिबद्धता के लिए भी सम्मानित की जाती हैं।

[sankirtan]

(via Sat Sanga - Special Guest HG Gopinathacarya Prabhu - HH Krishna Kshetra Swami - 26.10.2024 - YouTube)

The video is a recorded online discussion featuring HH Krishna Kshetra Swami and special guest HG Gopinathacarya Prabhu, held on October 26, 2024, as part of the Sat Sanga series. The discussion starts with Krishna Kshetra Swami sharing his location in Poland, then diving into the ongoing celebration of the Damodara month. They cover the reading of various bhakti songs, especially those from Narottama Das Thakur’s prayer book Prarthana, explaining the Bengali and Sanskrit verses, their meanings, and the poetic structure. Gopinathacarya Prabhu joins later, contributing insights on Sanskrit poetics and the concept of rasa (the essence of aesthetic experience in poetry) and dhvani (suggestion in poetic expression). They explore the depth of devotional emotions in Sanskrit and Bengali literature, emphasizing how poetic conventions and implied meanings enhance the spiritual experience. They also discuss famous Sanskrit verses, Krishna Kshetra Swami's recent translation work, and anecdotes on the lives of devotees, particularly the poet Keshava Kashmiri. The video concludes with reflections on the beauty of devotional poetry and anticipation for future gatherings in the series.

[kanika75]

A Journey through Razdan Pass Inspired by the Verses of Habba Khatoo

In the tranquil landscapes of Kashmir, where the mountains kiss the skies and the rivers hum ancient songs, there lies a passage steeped in history and poetry, a tale of beauty and resilience intertwined with the natural splendor of the region. This story is not just of scenic vistas but also of a poetess whose verses have become an eternal part of Kashmir’s cultural fabric. Here, amidst the towering peaks and winding roads, the journey through the majestic Razdan Pass leads one closer to the essence of Habba Khatoo, a name that resonates with the poetic soul of Kashmir.

The Razdan Pass, standing at an elevation of 11,672 feet, serves as a gateway to the captivating Gurez Valley. This mountain pass is more than just a geographic feature; it is a threshold to a world where the raw beauty of nature merges seamlessly with the rich tapestry of Kashmiri history. The pass, often blanketed in snow during the winter months, offers panoramic views that are nothing short of breathtaking. As you traverse this route, each turn presents a new vista—whether it’s the shimmering Kishanganga River meandering through the valley below or the distant peaks that stand as silent sentinels to the beauty and history that have unfolded in this region over the centuries.

Travelers who venture through Razdan Pass often find themselves lost in the serene yet rugged beauty of the landscape. The air here is crisp, tinged with the scent of pine, and the silence is profound, broken only by the occasional sound of wind rushing through the valleys or the distant call of a bird. This silence, however, is anything but empty. It is filled with the whispers of history and the echoes of a time when the valley below was a flourishing kingdom. The pass has witnessed the march of emperors, the prayers of pilgrims, and the poetic musings of one of Kashmir’s most beloved figures—Habba Khatoo.

Habba Khatoo, often referred to as the Nightingale of Kashmir, was a 16th-century poetess whose life and works have left an indelible mark on the cultural and literary heritage of the region. Born in Chandhar, a small village in the Pulwama district, Habba Khatoo’s poetry reflects the beauty, pain, love, and longing that are intrinsic to the human experience. Her verses, composed in Kashmiri, speak to the soul, capturing the essence of a life that was as tumultuous as it was poetic.

The journey of Habba Khatoo through life was marked by profound love and equally profound sorrow. Married off at a young age to an ill-tempered husband, her early life was far from the idyllic existence one might imagine for a poetess of her caliber. Yet, it was these very experiences that fueled her creativity, turning her into one of the most revered poets in Kashmiri history. Her verses often spoke of her longing for love, the pain of separation, and the deep connection she felt with the natural world around her. It is said that the beauty of Kashmir—the valleys, the rivers, and the mountains—served as both her muse and her solace.

As one stands at the Razdan Pass today, it is easy to imagine Habba Khatoo finding inspiration in the same vistas that captivate travelers now. The very mountains that rise around the pass could have been the ones she gazed upon as she composed her poetry, her words flowing as naturally as the rivers that wind through the valleys below. The rugged beauty of the landscape, with its contrasts of sharp peaks and gentle slopes, mirrors the duality in Habba Khatoo’s life—the joy and sorrow, the love and loss, the beauty and the pain.

The Razdan Pass also holds a strategic significance, connecting the Bandipora district with the Gurez Valley. This route, though treacherous at times, has been a lifeline for the people of Gurez, providing them with access to the rest of Kashmir. The pass remains a vital link, especially during the summer months when the snow melts and the roads are navigable. However, it is not just the physical connection that the pass represents; it is also a symbolic passage through time, leading one back to the days when Habba Khatoo’s verses would have been shared and sung across the valleys.

The Gurez Valley, which lies beyond the Razdan Pass, is itself a place of unparalleled beauty. Often described as one of Kashmir’s hidden gems, Gurez is a land where time seems to stand still. The valley is home to the Dard Shina people, an ethnic group with a unique culture and language that has been preserved for centuries. The Kishanganga River, with its turquoise waters, flows through the heart of Gurez, adding to the valley’s enchanting beauty. It is in places like these that one can truly appreciate the connection between Kashmir’s natural beauty and its cultural heritage—a connection epitomized by the journey through the Razdan Pass and the legacy of Habba Khatoo.

Habba Khatoo’s life, though marked by personal tragedy, was one of profound artistic achievement. After the death of her first husband, she found love again in the form of Yusuf Shah Chak, the last independent ruler of Kashmir. Their love story, though brief, was one of intense passion and mutual respect. Yusuf Shah Chak, recognizing her poetic genius, encouraged her to continue writing, and under his patronage, her works flourished. However, their happiness was short-lived. Yusuf Shah Chak was eventually captured by the Mughal Emperor Akbar and exiled to Bihar, where he died in captivity. Habba Khatoo was left heartbroken, and her later works reflect the deep sorrow she felt at the loss of her beloved.

Today, Habba Khatoo is remembered not just as a poetess, but as a symbol of the resilience and enduring spirit of Kashmir. Her verses continue to be recited and sung, their beauty undiminished by the passage of time. The Razdan Pass, with its timeless beauty and its role as a gateway to the Gurez Valley, serves as a fitting backdrop to her story—a story that is as much about the land as it is about the poetess who captured its essence in her words.

As you stand at the Razdan Pass and gaze out over the Gurez Valley, it is impossible not to feel the presence of Habba Khatoo. Her words seem to linger in the air, carried on the wind that sweeps through the pass. The landscape that unfolds before you is the same one that inspired her, the same one that she immortalized in her poetry. In this way, the Razdan Pass is not just a physical journey, but a journey into the heart of Kashmir’s cultural soul—a journey that brings you closer to understanding the enduring legacy of Habba Khatoo and the timeless beauty of the land she loved.