Kashmiri People: The Soul of Kashmir – Beyond Conflict
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When Kashmir is mentioned, many immediately think of border conflicts, political tensions, or military clashes between India, Pakistan, and China. But beyond these narratives exists a deeply rooted cultural idea: Kashmiriity .
This ideology—or rather, philosophy of life —is a centuries-old concept that has preserved a sense of identity, unity, and tolerance amidst unrest. But what exactly is Kashmir? And why is it more relevant today than ever?
What is “Kashmiriat”?
The term “Kashmiriat” (from Persian/Urdu “کشمیریت”) describes an ethical-cultural identity that is characterized by:
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Religious tolerance
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Syncretism (fusion of different traditions)
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solidarity
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Peaceful coexistence
Kashmiri religion is less a political doctrine than a social ethos —rooted in spirituality, mysticism, and communal culture.
Origin and development
1. Influence of Sufi mysticism
In the Middle Ages, Sufi saints like Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Wali (Nund Rishi) brought a message of peace and spiritual unity to Kashmir. They emphasized human values over dogmatic religion and gained followers even among Hindus.
2. Coexistence of Hindus and Muslims
For centuries , Muslims, Hindus (especially Pandits), Buddhists and Sikhs lived together in Kashmir – often in the same villages, celebrated festivals together, shared language (Kashmiri) and customs.
3. Poetic culture
Poets like Lal Ded (a Hindu mystic) and the Sufi masters mentioned above have written poems that incorporate both Hinduism and Islam – a literary symbol of Kashmir.
What makes Kashmirariat so special?
| aspect | Significance in Kashmir |
|---|---|
| 🌙 Religion | No dogmatism – but spiritual tolerance |
| 🗣 Language | Kashmiri as an identity-forming element |
| 🏡 Community | Living in solidarity across religious boundaries |
| 🎨 Culture | Joint celebrations, songs, rituals |
| 🌿 Closeness to nature | Living in harmony with nature and spirituality |
Kashmiri people are neither anti-Indian nor pro-Pakistani – but deeply rooted in local culture , which can distance itself from both sides.
Lost Harmony: The Decline of Kashmir?
The last decades – especially since the 1990s – have put a heavy strain on this fragile ideal:
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Radicalization & Separatism
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Expulsion of Kashmiri Pandits
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Militarization & political interventions
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Religious polarization
Many fear that Kashmiri people are dying , as younger generations have grown up without the sense of community that once characterized everyday life.
Why Kashmirariat is important again
At a time when identity politics , religious nationalism and conflict are on the rise worldwide, Kashmir offers a rare, almost utopian model: peaceful coexistence through shared values rather than separate affiliations.
Revival of Kashmir means:
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Dialogue between communities
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Recognition of cultural diversity
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Strengthening local rather than geopolitical identity
Conclusion: Kashmirariat is more than just a memory
The Kashmiri people live on – in stories, songs, customs, and memories. It is not a political plan, but a moral compass that shows that peaceful coexistence beyond religious and ethnic boundaries is possible.
It is not just a longing for the past , but a hope for the future – not only for Kashmir, but for many regions of the world.