During my trip to Kashmir in April 2023, I bought the book ‘Kashmir Legacy’ at Srinagar Airport. Picking it up again recently, I’ve just finished reading it. Here’s a summary of my impressions. For now, I’m trusting the author’s account, but I’m open to correcting any factual errors I might discover in the future.
Kashmir Legacy: Historical and Cultural by Professor Fida Mohammad Hassnain provides a comprehensive overview of Kashmir’s rich history and culture. The book delves into the region’s ancient past, exploring the reigns of significant rulers like Lalitaditya Muktapida, Sultan Yusuf Shah Chak, Sultan Zain ul-Abdin, and their contributions to Kashmir’s development as both conquerors and administrators.
The author highlights the tumultuous periods Kashmir experienced under the rule of the Afghans, Sikhs, and Dogras, particularly the suffering endured by the Muslim population during the Dogra era. The book also sheds light on the forced conversion of Hindus during the rule of certain orthodox Sultan kings.
Culturally, Kashmir’s deep connection with Israel is explored, with the belief that Kashmiris are direct descendants of ancient Israelite sects. The unique Kashmir Shaivism and the origin of the Trika in Kashmir are discussed. The Trika is a non-dualistic philosophical system within Kashmir Shaivism that emphasizes the interconnectedness of the ultimate reality, divine energy, and the bound soul.
The book also examines the significant role of Buddhism in Kashmir during the time of King Kanishka, when Mahayana Buddhism was introduced. The author explores how the once-thriving Buddhist tradition was forcibly suppressed by orthodox Hindu kings through massacres and vandalism.
Kashmir’s cultural influence from Persia, particularly through Sufism, is also explored. The book highlights the significant impact of veteran Sufi saints who traveled to Kashmir and left lasting legacies.
While the book is rich in historical data and quotes from ancient authors, some readers may find it lacking in detail regarding the 20th century, particularly the post-independence era. Despite this, the book offers a valuable insight into Kashmir’s complex history and cultural heritage.
