VASANTA RITU - SPRING ISSUE NO. 120 (Mar-Apr 2025)

Kashmiri Literature Today

Houseboats lined up on the Dal Lake. Photo by Mohammad Zahid

Whenever Kashmiri Literature is talked about, the vakhs of Lal Ded come automatically to one’s mind. Even to a non-native reader, the mystic poet of the 14th century remains a venerable figure. Kashmir’s cultural identity is marked by its mystic essence, celebration of cultural and religious diversity, tolerance and moderation in all affairs of life. Curated by Mohammad Zahid, this special feature offers a bird’s eye view of Kashmir’s literary scene with essays touching on various aspects of its literature; Kashmiri poetry in translation—including Lal Ded’s by Ranjit Hoskote—and some poems in English by modern poets. The feature carries a mix of voices, from earlier times up to the present and highlights the transition the literary works have gone through over a long period. We hope this feature will invoke readers’ interest in exploring the Kashmiri literary scene.
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Highlights
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When the dirt was wiped away from my mind’s mirror
People knew me for a lover of God
When I saw him there, so close to me,
He was All, I was nothing.

A Vakh of Lal Ded (1320-1392) translated by Ranjit Hoskote from Kashmiri. Read a few more excerpts from her writings in the Feature “Kashmiri Literature Today”. (FEATURE)
 


 

“Kashmir is proud of not only its scenic beauty and splendour but also of its great tradition of scholarship, knowledge and articulation. It is perhaps only here that the resident deity, Sharda presents three dimensions, all related to the human quest for knowledge; Sharda, Narda and Vagdevi, the three attributes of knowledge, scholarship and articulation.” (Dr Ayaz Rasool Nazki in his essay “Kashmiri Poetry - an Introduction”. (FEATURE)


 

Dogri language and literature stand as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and vibrant literary tradition of the Jammu region. From its historical roots to contemporary expressions, Dogri continues to evolve, reflecting the dynamic identity of its speakers. Preserving and promoting Dogri literature is essential for maintaining the linguistic diversity and cultural richness of India. Through scholarly attention and community efforts, Dogri can continue to thrive, contributing to the broader tapestry of world literature.

Dr Kiran Kalra: Science Fiction in Dogri Language - A Study of ‘A Better Way of Life’. (LITERARY SECTION)


 

One should not think that we protect the environment. We are one among the small creatures like other animals. We are part of the environment. If we consider we are the head; it is a western thought, a cruel thought. It is not suitable for Indian lifestyle, especially not suitable for Tamil Nadu. The life of the Tamilians is connected to the lands; where land is water-related. It is part of our tradition, to get connected to the environment. If we kill the entire thing on it and earn money, what do we get at the end? It hurts us back; we cannot survive.

Dr N Chandra: A Conversation with Kirungai Sethupathy

(LITERARY SECTION)


 

En Route by Anish Francis (translated from Malayalam by Gita Janaki) is a fascinating journey to that place of rendezvous where love first blossomed but, in the humdrum of life, love was never expressed. (FICTION) 
 


 

When faced with two contrasting options, one that harms and the other that helps – what will an individual choose?  Read A Difficult Choice by Snehal Nanda, a representation of virtuous vs immoral behavior, to get a glimpse of the protagonist’s choice. (FICTION)
 


 

Mandira Ghosh’s poems unravel a world of despair and suffering, offering a poignant glimpse into the complexities of the mind and heart. Her sensitive portrayal enriches these emotions with a delicate, beautiful touch. (POETRY)
 


 

M. D. Muthukumaraswamy’s poems explore both ancient and modern worlds, blurring the lines between the past and the present. His poems evoke rich philosophical insights, weaving timeless verses that bridge eras. (POETRY)
 


 

Pushpa Subramanian in her review of Gardens of Delhi writes that if you are searching for a coffee table book that sparks lively discussions, look no further. The stunning photographs captivate the eye and evoke a sense of well-being and serenity. (BOOK REVIEWS)
 


 

Kusumita Mukherjee Debnath writes that Anuja Chandramouli in The Wife and the Dancing Girl provokes readers to reflect upon the fallacy of loving too much, advocating for a life lived on one’s terms rather than for someone else’s sake. (BOOK REVIEWS)
 

SPONSORSHIP

This issue of Muse India is sponsored by our senior member and writer, Sri S M Kompella

Past Issues

Issue:119:Film & Other Media Adaptations from Regional Literatures

Issue:118:The life & work of ‘Padma Shri’ Asavadi Prakasa Rao, a unique Telugu savant with subaltern roots

Issue:117:Westerners’ Encounters with Indian Philosophy and Spirituality

Issue:116:Writings of Anita Desai

Issue:115:FEATURE: Kerala Writing in Malayalam

Issue:114:Post-Independence Bengali Poetry

Issue:113:Contemporary Gujarati Literature

Issue:112:Conversations – Contemporary Indian Women Poets