As migratory birds return to Hokersar, a conservation clash emerges. The discrepancies between official claims and on-ground reality expose the challenges faced by this once-thriving wetland. By Tauheed Ahmad As the winter descends upon the Kashmir Valley, the annual migration of migratory birds to the Hokersar wetland heralds the season’s arrival,” observed Ifshan Dewan, the […]
Goddess Shashti: Protector of Children, Symbol of Fertility
The mysteries surrounding Shashti, the Hindu goddess, are celebrated for her benevolence and protection of children. The roots of this ancient tradition and its rituals continue to grace households seeking fertility and divine blessings. By Satish Mahaldar Shashti or Shashiti, derived from the Sanskrit term षष्ठी (Ṣaṣṭthī), meaning “sixth,” holds a revered position in Hinduism […]
Tobacco’s Silent Threat
From the ancient Andes to modern India, the cultivation of tobacco has left an indelible mark on societies. The journey of tobacco through time, its origins, unintended discoveries, and the pressing health concerns surrounding this notorious substance, all contribute to its complex narrative By Mool Raj Tobacco stands as one of the most widely abused […]
The Enduring Charm of Houk Seun
The tale of Houk Seun in Kashmir transcends mere culinary practices; it encapsulates a cultural narrative passed down through generations. By Manzoor Akash Kashmir has enjoyed a longstanding reputation for its winter culinary tradition centered around the consumption of Houk Seun, or dried vegetables. Despite the current convenience of having fresh vegetables readily available, the […]
Book review “Ulmai Kashmir Ki Deeni Wa Ilmi Khidmaat”
Khaki Mohd Farooq’s latest offering, “Ulmai Kashmir Ki Deeni Wa Almi Khidmaat,” transcends the picturesque beauty of the Valley of Kashmir. With meticulous detail, this book unfurls the lives of key figures—Hazrat Ab Rehman Bulbul, Mir Syed Ali Hamadani, and more—who paved the way for a Muslim-majority Kashmir. An indispensable read for those seeking to […]
J&K’s Entrepreneurial Wave
Rural women in J&K are redefining success as they transition from job seekers to job creators. The impact of programs like Saath, Umeed, Mumkin, Hausla, and Tejaswini has reshaped the economic landscape of the region. By Ishtiyaq Ahmad The Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory government, spearheaded by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, is actively engaged in […]
Shakespeare of the Valley
Manzoor Akash, the Shakespeare of the Kashmir Valley, whose literary brilliance knows no bounds. As a teacher, author, and award-winning columnist, Akash’s words resonate with passion and purpose. By Aijaz Ahmad In the beautiful Kashmir Valley, in the middle of India, many talented young people live. They not only do well in India but also […]
Autumn and Literature
The bewitching beauty and sensuous charms of autumn season has inspired poetsacross time, countries and culture By Manzoor Akash Autumn holds a special place in literature with its fascinating artwork of golden-hued trees, glistening natural beauty, crispy leaves and unique grandeur which has fired up the imagination of poets and writers through generations. As the […]
Petals of Progress
The demand for flowers from Jammu and Kashmir is transcending international boundaries. The government is taking various initiatives to seize opportunities and overcome obstacles as the region’s floriculture industry strives to make its mark in the competitive global marketplace. By Mool Raj The floriculture industry in the picturesque region of Jammu and Kashmir stands poised […]
Cadaver Transplants Offer the Gift of Life from Loss: Dr Saleem Wani
By Tauheed Ahmad Organ transplantation stands out as a remarkable achievement in medicine, providing a vital lifeline for individuals facing end-stage organ failure. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of this life-saving procedure relies heavily on the accessibility of organs. In the region of Jammu and Kashmir, the disparity between the number of patients eagerly awaiting transplants and […]