In the lap of the Himalayas high,
Where heaven meets earth, where eagles fly.
Snow-capped peaks, rivers so wide,
Kashmir stands, a nation’s pride.
The Land of Splendor and Grace
Valleys draped in saffron’s hue,
Meadows kissed by morning dew.
Tulip gardens in bloom so bright,
Glistening under golden light.
Dal Lake whispers, shikaras glide,
Floating markets, stories untied.
Reflections dance on waters deep,
Of mountains that in silence keep.
A Culture as Rich as the Soil
Pherans warm in winter’s chill,
Kangris glowing with embered will.
Carpets woven with love and skill,
Tales in every thread instill.
Sufi songs in shrines resound,
Echoing peace in hearts profound.
Mystic poets, their verses divine,
Words like chinar leaves intertwine.
The Flavor of Kashmir’s Heart
Kahwa brews in cups so grand,
A sip of saffron, warmth at hand.
Wazwan feasts with flavors true,
Rogan josh, yakhni’s hue.
Rice fields golden in the light,
Fragrance filling homes so bright.
Dry fruits gathered, almonds sweet,
A tradition where love and food meet.
Diversity Woven Like Threads of Pashmina
Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs all pray,
Living in harmony, come what may.
Temples rise where azaan is heard,
Faith and love in every word.
Festivals shine like stars at night,
Eid and Shivratri, both alight.
The warmth of homes, the love so deep,
A culture rich, traditions keep.
The Struggles, the Truth, and the Pain
But oh, dear traveler, hear me well,
Kashmir has a darker tale to tell.
A land where peace once freely roamed,
Now in shadows, fate bemoaned.
Borders drawn with lines of fire,
Dreams engulfed in barbed wire.
Echoes of laughter, now turned to cries,
Yet hope in every heart still lies.
Beyond the Myths, Beyond the Veil
Come and see, but learn the truth,
Not just the beauty, but war’s deep root.
Listen to elders, hear their past,
Understand the peace they long to grasp.
Yet through it all, love still stays,
In shepherd’s song, in children’s gaze.
In whispers of willows, in mother’s prayer,
Kashmir survives with love to spare.
A Call to the World – Know Kashmir
Not just the land, not just the view,
Know its people, struggles true.
See beyond the headlines bold,
Listen to the stories untold.
Kashmir is more than paradise bright,
It’s a tale of darkness and light.
So, come with an open heart to see,
The land of longing, love, and peace.
Explore Kashmir. Understand. Respect. Embrace.
By Dr. Bilal Ahmad Bhat
