Book Title: City as Memory: A Short Biography of Srinagar
Author: Sadaf Wani
Publisher: Aleph Book Company
Number of Pages: 192
ISBN: 978-8119635689
Date Published: Jul. 8, 2024
Price: INR 302
Book Review
Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is renowned for its stunning beauty nestled in the Kashmir Valley. The city features the iconic Dal Lake with houseboats and shikaras floating against the backdrop of the Himalayas. Its Mughal gardens like Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh showcase terraced lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and historic fountains, reflecting a rich cultural heritage. Known for traditional handicrafts and warm hospitality, Srinagar remains a resilient cultural hub despite occasional challenges.
Sadaf Wani’s book, “City as Memory: A Short Biography of Srinagar,” explores the personal and historical significance of Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir. The author reflects on the city’s rich cultural and political history, questioning how future generations will connect with a landscape devoid of its historical and cultural memories. Srinagar’s historical trajectory under various rulers has profoundly shaped its identity and character over time. From its origins as a vibrant hub, Downtown Srinagar has tragically transformed into a symbol of poverty and violence, reflecting the enduring impact of political turmoil on its residents. The concept of shahr identity in Srinagar further complicates social dynamics, contributing to feelings of unbelonging among migrants and influencing interactions within the city.
The socio-cultural dynamics in Kashmir reveal deep-seated societal biases and prejudices rooted in historical influences. The legacy of past rulers continues to shape the city’s landscape and practices, impacting everything from leisure activities to public spaces. Amidst ongoing conflict and militarization, Kashmiris navigate daily life with significant challenges, including restricted access to recreational areas and heightened security measures that affect cultural practices and social interactions.
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Political turmoil, particularly during the insurgency era of the 1990s, has left a lasting imprint on Srinagar’s cultural landscape. It has reshaped leisure activities, altered public spaces, and profoundly affected the social fabric of Kashmiri society. The resulting collective trauma and sense of loss among residents underscore the urgent need to preserve the city’s cultural heritage and traditions amidst ongoing challenges and uncertainties.
Through personal anecdotes and historical insights, this book – “City as Memory” paints a vivid portrait of Srinagar’s past, present, and uncertain future, highlighting the complexities of belonging, migration, and urban-rural dynamics in the city.
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