Aagar Naeb: A Window to Kashmir’s Civilizational Heritage

(By: Kanwal Krishan Lidhoo)*

Aagar Naeb (The Source), published in 1998, is a profound scholarly work by Moti Lal Saqi, one of Kashmir’s most revered intellectuals. Driven by his deep love for Kashmir, Saqi foresaw a dual crisis that the region’s future generations might face—a loss of historical connection amidst chaos and existential upheaval. His book serves as both a reflection on these challenges and a guiding light for the preservation of Kashmir’s cultural identity.

A Generation at Crossroads

Saqi anticipated a dual assault on Kashmir’s collective consciousness. On one hand, there was the risk of a disoriented generation, forced to rebuild their lives in distant lands, losing touch with their historical roots. On the other, a generation trapped in the vortex of terror and disorder prioritized survival over understanding their heritage. This erosion of historical consciousness, he warned, could compromise the essence of Kashmir’s identity.

Despite this, Saqi maintained hope. He believed that, eventually, the turmoil would subside, allowing the pristine waters of Kashmir to once again reflect the grandeur of its civilizational heritage.

In the foreword Saqi writes:

“Many historians have attempted to explore the depths of Kashmir’s historical and cultural waters. However, many lacked the ability to connect with its soil or truly grasp its value system. This has resulted in superficial discussions, fragmented opinions, and an absence of a unifying central idea.”

He further adds:

“The Book Aagar Naeb is an effort to understand and interpret Kashmir’s history unconventionally. I have sought to present to my esteemed readers what others have recorded about Kashmir, while also contributing my own findings that, once recovered, could realign our understanding.”

The Scholarly Depth of Aagar Naeb

In Aagar Naeb, Saqi meticulously addresses the complex challenges of historiography. Drawing upon an extensive array of sources—ranging from ancient Chinese, Buddhist, and Vedic texts to the Mahabharata, Puranas, Alberuni’s works, Kalhana’s Rajatarangini, Taranatha’s accounts, and Aurel Stein’s studies—Saqi delves into the intricate tapestry of Kashmir’s past.

Through his analysis, he unearths the nuanced details that define the cultural and civilizational essence of Kashmir. His narrative does not merely recount historical events but seeks to illuminate the threads connecting the past to the present, transforming ancient texts into a rich mosaic of insights.

A Vision Beyond History

Saqi’s approach to historiography is both scholarly and visionary. He sought to bridge the opacity of ancient sources with the contemporary need to understand Kashmir’s grandeur. By rediscovering and reinterpreting these narratives, he aimed to inspire a renewed connection to the region’s shared history.

Through Aagar Naeb, Saqi emphasized the enduring value of cultural preservation. His vision transcends the immediate challenges of his era, offering a blueprint for future generations to reclaim their identity and honor their heritage.

A Call to Preserve Kashmir’s Soul

Aagar Naeb is more than a historical account; it is a call to action. Moti Lal Saqi reminds us that the pristine waters of Kashmir still hold the reflection of its civilizational soul. His work stands as a testament to the resilience of the Kashmiri people and the enduring power of cultural preservation.

Saqi’s faith in the resilience of Kashmir’s heritage continues to inspire, providing a guiding light for those seeking meaning amidst the tumult. Aagar Naeb remains a timeless beacon for the preservation and celebration of Kashmir’s identity.

*Kanwal Krishan Lidhoo, an accredited translator of Kashmiri, Urdu and Hindi by Sahitya Akademi New Delhi and Indian Institute of Languages Mysore,  was  associated with the institution of All India Radio (AIR) where he worked as a Senior Producer at Radio Kashmir Srinagar and Jammu. He is one of the Directors of Kashmir Rechords.