Amit Shah on Kashmir: Reinterpreting its legacy of history, culture, and knowledge

Historians have recorded the past with the resources available to them, but in an independent India, it is our responsibility to reinterpret history from our own perspective, based on evidence and fresh insights. This approach allows us to revisit historical narratives and ensure they reflect a more accurate and inclusive understanding of our cultural legacy. One region whose contributions to India’s history often remain under appreciated is Kashmir. Kashmir has long been a centr of intellectual and spiritual development, producing figures like Charak, who contributed to Ayurveda, and Sushruta, whose work in surgery laid the foundation for modern medical science. The region also played a key role in the development of the Natyashastra and was home to thinkers like Abhinav Gupta, whose philosophical works on aesthetics have had a lasting impact. Beyond intellectual achievements, Kashmir was a crucial hub on the Silk Route, facilitating trade and the exchange of ideas between Central Asia, China, and India. This also made it a place where multiple religious traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sufism, coexisted and flourished. Kashmir’s cultural and linguistic diversity further highlights its rich history, with languages like Kashmiri, Sanskrit, and Tibetan reflecting the various influences that have shaped the region. The Fourth Buddhist Council, held in Kashmir during Emperor Kanishka’s reign, marked the region as a major centre for Buddhist thought. Kashmir’s intellectual, cultural, and spiritual contributions are a vital part of India’s heritage. As we reassess our history, it is crucial to recognise and preserve these contributions, ensuring that Kashmir’s legacy continues to inspire future generations. Through this process, we can create a more comprehensive and inclusive historical narrative that acknowledges the richness and diversity of India’s past.

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