Kashmir Rechords, Author at Kashmir Rechords--Striking a Chord with Kashmir

Kashmiri Pandit Martyrs, C/o Rajinder Park Jammu

(By: Dr. Rajesh Bhat)* Every year on September 14, Kashmiri Pandits observe Martyrdom Day to remember their leaders and loved ones lost in the conflict of 1989-1990. One name often evoked is Pt. Tika Lal Taploo, a prominent Pandit leader whose assassination on September 14, 1989, marked the beginning of…

Lal Ded Chair Remains Unfulfilled: A Govt, UGC Promise in Limbo

(Kashmir Rechords Exclusive) As Kashmiri Pandits observe the birth anniversary of one of their most revered figures, Lalleshwari—popularly known as Lal Ded—the long-promised recognition of her legacy through a dedicated academic chair remains unrealized. Over four years ago, in December 2019, Ms Smriti Irani in the capacity of Union Minister…

H.N. Jattu: A Polarizing Leader Who Defied the Odds

(By: KR Ishan) With the passing of veteran Kashmiri Pandit leader H.N. Jattu on September 3, 2024, an era quietly came to an end. A leader who straddled the pre- and post-migration worlds of Kashmiri Pandits, Jattu was no stranger to controversy. Throughout his life, he faced opposition both within…

Political Resurgence or Marginalization? Kashmiri Pandits and the 2024 Assembly Elections

(By: K R Ishan) As Jammu and Kashmir prepares for its first Assembly elections since the abrogation of Article 370, the political landscape reflects a blend of renewed aspirations and deep-seated apprehension. For Kashmiri Pandits (KPs), this election is not just a test of democracy, but a referendum on their…

Breaking the Myth: Kashmiri Pandits in the Late 19th Century

(Kashmir Pandit Exclusive) In the late 19th century, a myth took root that Kashmiri Pandits, a so called educated and affluent community, monopolized top bureaucratic positions under Maharaja Pratap Singh. Contrary to this belief, the majority of Kashmiri Pandits, between 1890 and 1910, were struggling with poverty and educational backwardness.…