The Legacy of “Kar-Begar” Forced Labour in Kashmir, 1846-1947 An Idiom as a Historical Record In the Kashmiri language, the idiom ‘Bawanjan Barun’ survives not merely as a linguistic curiosity, but as a profound historical artifact. It is a phrase steeped in generations of trauma, preserving the memory of a state-sanctioned system of oppression. This monograph dissects…
Malshah Masjid in Srinagar, located between Bachi Darwaza and Makdoom Sahab Shrine. Some sources state that this masjid was built by Dara Shakou, son of Shah Jehan, for his mentor Mullah Akhund Shah. Others have written that Dara’s sister, JahanAra Begum, also managed the construction of this masjid, which cost about 20,000 rupees during the…
This is Sherin Bagh of Srinagar District. If anyone guesses that the famous love story of Sherin Farhaad might be the reason behind its name, or thinks of the sweets called “Shrini” in Kashmiri, both are wrong. What is the reason then? Let’s find out in this blog. We were talking about Sherin Bagh. This…
The present Srinagar’s foundation was laid by King Ashok in the 3rd century near Pandrethan, but it remains unclear if this Ashok was Ashoka the Great or Ashok of Kashmir. In this blog, we will trace the history of Srinagar through ancient, medieval, and modern times. Every place in Kashmir has a unique history, including…
Since the valley of Kashmir has been ruled by many dynasties and rulers from the very beginning, our history has become complicated so has our vision thinking, and decision-making. Many things have become taboos and we hold an opinion that has been told to us to frame and is not our own. This is only…
The word “ Ganaie” refers to the one who possesses the knowledge and has a talent for writing anything script so neatly. In Kashmir, Ganaie was used to mean secretary as well. گنائی بہ کشمیر دانا بود خدا وند تدبیر و خامہ بود But in Kashmir over a period so many castes had been demeaned…
The Origin of ‘Joo’ Among Kashmiri Names Once upon a time in the beautiful valley of Kashmir, there lived a humble silversmith named Habib. Habib was known throughout his village not just for his exceptional craftsmanship, but also for his kind heart and wisdom. Over time, people started calling him “Habib Joo” as a sign…
Beigh: One is always curious to know about the roots of his/her Caste. Let us know about Beigh Caste today. The origin: In Turkistan, there has been a tradition since ancient times that whosoever showed courage on the battlefield was given the title of Beigh for the feat. As per historian,s it has its origin in beog,…
KHAN—The word Khan has been traced back to certain tribal groups, including the Xianbi, Xiongnu, and Donub. The Xianbi are the prominent ones. Xianbi: It was a tribal clan traced back to 6 BC. This kingdom ruled up to 234 AD and was related to the Mongols. This tribe, in association with other tribal groups, established small kingdoms across…
