Date: 2025-05-29 07:51:18 Last Modified: 2025-07-03 07:17:55 by MithBooks Tags: Private: No Body:

Kashmir is one of India’s most picturesque and culturally rich destinations. From stunning landscapes to vibrant traditions, it offers a lot to explore. However, like any popular tourist destination, it has its share of scams that visitors need to be aware of. Understanding these potential pitfalls in advance can help you enjoy your trip without unnecessary hassles.

Here are some common tourist scams to watch out for during your visit to Kashmir.

1. Overpriced Souvenirs: Local markets in Kashmir are filled with beautiful handicrafts and souvenirs. However, some vendors inflate prices dramatically when they spot tourists. It’s always advisable to compare prices at a few shops and, where possible, visit government-approved stores that guarantee fair prices and authenticity.
2. Fake Tour Guides: Unlicensed guides are a common issue in tourist areas. Many unauthorized individuals pose as official guides, offering incomplete or inaccurate information while charging exorbitant fees. Always ensure that your guide is certified and booked through reliable sources, such as registered tourism offices or your accommodation provider.
3. Shikara Ride Overcharging: The famous Shikara rides on Dal Lake are a must-do in Kashmir. However, some boatmen may attempt to overcharge unsuspecting tourists by adding unexpected costs mid-ride. To avoid being scammed, negotiate and agree on the fare beforehand, making sure both parties are clear on the route and duration.
4. Unauthorized Trekking Guides: The scenic mountains of Kashmir attract trekkers from all over the world. Some self-proclaimed "trekking guides" may approach you during your trek and offer their services. These individuals often lack the necessary skills and knowledge, putting your safety at risk. Always hire trekking guides through established trekking agencies or certified adventure operators.
5. Fake Handicrafts: Kashmir is famous for its unique handicrafts, including carpets, shawls, and wood carvings. Unfortunately, there are instances of tourists being sold counterfeit products at high prices. Avoid falling victim to this scam by purchasing only from reputable shops or government-approved outlets that guarantee authenticity.
6. Exorbitant Pony Ride Charges: Whether you're exploring valleys or visiting hilltop attractions, pony rides are a popular mode of transport in Kashmir. However, some operators charge unreasonable prices, sometimes promising to show multiple scenic spots but only delivering a subpar experience. Always agree on a price before starting the ride, and be clear on the duration and route to avoid any confusion.
7. Taxi Fare Manipulation: Taxi drivers in Kashmir sometimes refuse to use meters or quote inflated fares for trips. To avoid overpaying, research the standard rates in advance or book your rides through your hotel or a reliable taxi service. Insist on using the meter or negotiate the price upfront to avoid any disputes later.
8. Price Inflation in Restaurants: Tourist-centric restaurants may inflate their menu prices, especially in peak seasons. In some cases, you may be presented with an inflated bill due to hidden service charges. Always check the menu for prices beforehand and ask if there are any additional charges for services or taxes. It’s also a good idea to read online reviews to find trustworthy eateries.
9. Pickpocketing in Crowded Areas: While not as common as other scams, pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas such as markets, festivals, and popular tourist spots. Always be cautious with your belongings, keep your valuables in secure bags, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
10. Horse Ride Overpricing at Hill Stations: At many hill stations in Kashmir, horse rides are a popular tourist attraction. However, some operators overcharge, especially in areas that are difficult to access by foot. Before starting your ride, be sure to negotiate a fair price and clarify the duration and route.
11. Unauthorized Photography Fees: Some locals may demand payment after posing for photographs with tourists, even if it was unintentional or unsolicited. It's best to ask for permission before taking photos of people and be prepared to pay a small fee if requested.
12. Extra Fees for Visiting Attractions: In some tourist spots, unauthorized individuals may demand additional entry fees or parking charges that are not officially sanctioned. Be aware of the actual entry fees by checking with the tourism office or your guide.
13. Fake Charity Collectors: Some people may approach you on the streets or at religious sites, pretending to collect donations for charity or community projects. While there are legitimate causes, scammers often pose as charity workers. To avoid this, only donate to verified organizations or registered local charities.
14. Unnecessary Add-Ons in Services: Whether you’re hiring a houseboat or renting equipment, some operators may attempt to charge you for unnecessary add-ons or services. Always clarify what is included in the price and avoid paying for unneeded extras.
15. Shopkeeper Recommendations with Hidden Commissions: Some shopkeepers or guides may take you to specific stores where they receive a commission for bringing in tourists. These stores often inflate prices to cover the commission, resulting in tourists overpaying. To avoid this, do your shopping independently or ask your hotel for genuine recommendations.

Tips to Stay Safe

While Kashmir is generally safe for tourists, being cautious and aware of these common scams can help you enjoy a more stress-free experience. Here are a few tips:

Do your research: Learn about the common prices for activities, transportation, and goods before arriving.

Use official services: Book guides, transportation, and tours through certified operators or your hotel to avoid dealing with unauthorized agents.

Be firm yet polite: If you feel pressured into paying extra or engaging in services you don't want, it's okay to say no firmly but politely.

Stay vigilant: Keep your valuables secure, especially in crowded areas, and be cautious when sharing personal information with strangers.

By staying informed and prepared, you can enjoy the stunning beauty and rich culture of Kashmir while avoiding unnecessary hassles.

Date: 2025-05-29 07:38:46 Last Modified: 2025-07-09 06:53:53 by MithBooks Tags: Jammu and Kashmir Private: No Body:

The season has once again come for our community to run from pillar to post for the inclusion of our near and dear ones in the electoral roll or correction of our names or for that matter for applying a fresh for our VOTER ID CARD, for which if I remember have been applying for the last two decades or more and this time I have been once again given an opportunity to revise our credentials in the electoral roll which I know will never be done. This is the same repeated story of our community, and we have seen this happening in the last so many seasons.

I recall my experience when we were asked to apply for EPIC cards and were asked to visit different locations to submit our applications; To Date, I am still waiting for my card!

Recently after the abgoration of article 370 in our state we were once again asked to submit our applications for the voter cards in Shiv temple Ban Talab, but that process also did not culminate in any results. We have been following all the advisories of government from time to time but we are unable to get the fair deal best known to the people who are in charge of these processes.

As we were hounded from the valley in the 1990's we all shifted to the plains and remained steadfast mostly in Jammu waiting and looking at the government at that time for our welfare and resettlement!

But we were only shown subj bagh, a Kashmiri proverb, by successive governments and were always asked to submit our credentials fresh for any welfare activity, but always we got nothing and to date are also sailing on the same boat.

As time passed we as a community worked individually to create a space and tried to reestablish ourselves on our own and worked hard for our younger generation members by providing them the necessary education and making them self-sufficient to work in the corporate sector of the present world.

As it is, time has traveled so fast that we missed a lustrous period of our younger days and as we see it now we all are presently at square one and have only seen the further displacement of our community members as our younger generation are now scattered in our vast country and also in other countries of the world. Since displacement, we as a community have dispersed in every nook and Corner of India, and the government talks about providing facilities to Jammu and Delhi kps for filling these forms of inclusion, correction, or deletion, but what about our other community people, who can't take this cumbersome exercise and they all will remain neglected on account of their right to franchise which is a fundamental right of everyone. Not so many of our community members are interested in working on this exercise once again as they already know the fate of this futile exercise.

I want to know how the election department can rope in any Kashmiri Pandit Community Member who resides other than in Jammu, Delhi, and Chandigarh to enroll in this latest revision of the electoral process.

Date: 2025-05-29 07:49:32 Body: Dr. Kanaya Lal Dhar, son of Sh. Jagan Nath Dhar, a resident of K. K. Sokhta Safakadal, Srinagar, was a true jewel that the Kashmiri Society lost on January 30, 2024, in Ludhiana. This eminent individual, with academic credentials including BSc, MBBS, and MD, left an indelible mark in the medical field. Despite being two years senior to me, I shared a deep bond with Dr. K. L. Dhar, who reciprocated with love and guidance. His journey began with a BSc in Medical Sciences, where he excelled, earning first division with additional maths. In a challenging competition among 25 male seats, he secured admission to CMC College, Vellore, as then state Government refused him a reserved seat in the Government Quota. After completing his MBBS with top honors, he turned down an offer for MRCP London, surprising many, including the Pope who had come to present him with a Bible. Dr. Dhar, a devoted Krishna Bhakta, exchanged the Bible for the Sacred Bhagwat Geeta. Despite being the college topper, he was compelled to pursue a three-year MD course, which he completed with flying colors. Under family pressure, he joined the Medical Services of the Jammu and Kashmir Government. Dr. Dhar's integrity and noble deeds shone through when he resigned as a Medical Officer in District Doda, refusing to frame fictitious bills for expenditure. His commitment to principles and selflessness were further evident when, without waiting for full salary clearance, he left the position. Dr. Dhar's family shifted their residence from Safakadal to Karan Nagar, closer to their medical shop famously known as Habba Kadal Medical Store. The family-run chemist shop became renowned in the old city for its comprehensive range of medicines. Notably, the illustrious doctor, on his parents' insistence, joined CMC Vellore as the Head of Department and later relocated to CMC Ludhiana for proximity to Srinagar. Despite his international recognition and status as a renowned Endocrinologist / Physician in North India, the apathy of the Jammu and Kashmir Government deprived the Kashmiri Pandit Society of his valuable services. Let us remember and honor Dr. K. L. Dhar's legacy, acknowledging his contributions to the medical field and the sacrifices he made for principles. May his departed soul find eternal peace.

Date: 2025-06-04 16:16:58 Last Modified: 2025-06-04 16:23:48 by MithBooks Tags: Kashmir, People Private: No Body: The Kashmiri Pandits (also known as Kashmiri Brahmins) are a group of Kashmiri Hindus and a part of the larger Saraswat Brahmin community of India. They belong to the Pancha Gauda Brahmin group from the Kashmir Valley, located within the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Kashmiri Pandits are Hindu Kashmiris native to the Kashmir Valley, and the only remaining Hindu Kashmiris after the large-scale conversion of the Valley's population to Islam during medieval times. Prompted by the growth of Islamic militancy in the valley, a large number had to leave in the exodus of the 1990s, leaving behind their homes. Kashmiri Pandits have tried several times since then to come to Kashmir Valley through government policies and jobs, and many are living in government quarters, but most of them are usually fearful of life because of several incidents that have occurred in the past due to terrorism. EARLY HISTORY The Hindu Caste System of the Kashmir region was influenced by the influx of Buddhism from the time of Asoka, around the third century BCE, and a consequence of this was that the traditional lines of "varna" were blurred, except for that for the Brahmins. Another notable feature of early Kashmiri society was the relatively high regard in which women were held when compared to their position in other communities of the period. Across history, Northern India was subject to attack from Turkic and Arab regimes from the eighth century onwards, but they generally ignored the mountain-circled Kashmir Valley in favour of easier pickings elsewhere. RECENT EVENTS EXODUS FROM KASHMIR (1989 TO 1995) Kashmiri Pandits were one of the prominent and educated sections of the population of the valley. During the 1990s, they had to leave Kashmir Valley because of heavy terrorism from radical Islamists and militants. On 19th Jan 1990, mosques issued declarations that the Kashmiri Pandits were "Kafirs" and that the males had to leave Kashmir, convert to Islam or be killed. Those who chose the first of of there were told to leave their women behind. The Kashmiri Muslims were instructed to identify Pandit homes so they could be systematically targeted for conversion or killing. Terrorists used to issue lists, and names of people that they were going to kill (THE HIT LIST). Some incidents included the killing of Kashmiri Pandits while they were buying "Chot", a type of local bread prepared by "kandur" (a local baker) in "kandur van" (local bakery). These incidents forced Kashmiri Pandits to leave the valley and live like migrants in their own country. This was actually because it was a genocide where a certain group of people was targeted and eliminated. KILLING OF INDIAN CITIZENS AT PAHALGAM Recently, around 26 Indians were killed in Pahalgam by terrorists. They asked for the names and religion of tourists who had visited the Kashmir Valley with their families. Terrorists asked to confirm their religion by taking off their pants, and then killed the ones who were Hindus. Those who were killed were with their wives and children. They were killed in front of their families. The Government of India took a prompt response and retaliated with "OPERATION SINDOOR", which was a successful attack on terrorist establishments in Pakistan. KASHMIRI SURNAMES Kashmiri Hindus are Saraswat Brahmins and are known by the exonym Pandit. Kashmiri Hindu society reckons descent patrilineally. Certain property and titles may be inherited through the male line, but certain inheritances may accrue through the female line. Some prominent Kashmiri Pandit surnames include; 1. Bhat 2. Dhar 3. Lone 4. Kaul 5. Raina 6. Kak 7. Kachru 8. Kichlu 9. Mantu (Mantoo/Mintoo) 10. Handoo 11. Tikoo 12. Mattoo 13. Pandit 14. Bhan 15. Bakshi 16. Bazaz 17. Razdan 18. Munshi 19. Sapru 20. Sopori 21. Zutshi 22. Wangnu 23. Magray 24. Wali 25. Wazir 26. Madan 27. Wain 28. Zalpuri 29. Mirakhur 30. Ghassi 31. Kotru 32. Kakroo 33. Akhoon 34. Kaw 35. Kher 36. Khemu

Date: 2025-05-29 07:47:24 Body: Last night’s conversation with my parents shook me deeply. They told me there had been multiple drone attacks across the Line of Control (LOC) and International Borders. The kind of news that chills your spine, even before you fully understand the details. The borders didn’t just feel tense — they felt alive. In the darkness, faint red dots flickered across the sky, almost like eyes watching from the void. It wasn’t normal. It wasn’t safe. Around 30 minutes later, I reached home and immediately called my brother. The call itself was unnerving. I could hear the sound of drones being shot down by the Indian Army. The audio was filled with chaos — sharp, loud shelling, like thunder that wouldn’t stop. People were running, panicking, trying to find shelter, gathering in the safest corners of their homes. It was terrifying. Phones rang everywhere, but in that panic, most couldn’t even answer. Everyone was sitting quietly, praying silently, waiting for the unknown. I tried to contact a few friends. Some were out of station, but their families back in Jammu told similar stories — fear, noise, darkness, and uncertainty. As the shelling intensified, windows were shut tightly, lights switched off — no one wanted to be seen or heard. My friend tried to lighten the moment with a nervous laugh: "Looks like no one will come to my wedding now." That one small joke somehow gave his family the strength to smile through the storm, even if just for a second. But the nights are the hardest. You can’t go outside. You can’t see what’s coming. And inside, there’s no real protection. The fear is invisible, but it’s everywhere — pressing down on you, heartbeat after heartbeat. This is when real panic sets in. But this is also when we must not give in. In moments like these, the only way forward is to stay calm. Take a breath. Think clearly. Decide wisely. In cities like Jammu, most homes don’t have bunkers or basements. So the safest place becomes the lower floor of your house, especially rooms beneath a terrace or those built near pillars and corners. If you live in a house with two floors, head to the ground level and stay away from windows. And if you still think this is just "news", watch this. Here’s a real video of the shelling recorded at 4 AM in Jammu: 🔗 https://youtube.com/shorts/ov8oRrbxprQ?si=UXeIzw91_v8I7syP Stay alert. Stay safe. Pray for peace.

Date: 2025-05-30 12:40:26 Body: For a long we have heard about what Kashmiris want. Kashmiri Pandits have always been taken for granted. Everyone thinks that Kashmiri Pandits want to go back to Kashmir Valley, but is it true? After the Exodus of Kashmiri Pandits from Kashmir Valley, several of the families started to rebuild their broken homes. As one of their greatest assets was knowledge, they started working on their necessities by working in offices and teaching their children. No KP child hasn't seen their parents grinding themselves and then yelling at them to study and get settled. Parents just wanted their kids to complete their studies and start earning. They have spent so many nights settling their kids that they don't want to return to Kashmir and start their old ways of living. Although it might not be true for each one of us, and some might want to go back and settle in Kashmir again, everyone knows that it is not possible to do the same. Now the question arises, what are politicians yelling about? Have they ever conducted a survey to determine the needs of KP families? THE ANSWER IS NO. Instead of working towards making KP families a simple target in Kashmir, there are two ways by which the Kashmiri Society can be saved today. These days, it seems as if Kashmiri Pandits have become "Chicken Targets" in Kashmir. What are the two options? 1. Create Community Security Teams: This is by far the most underrated ideology, and I don't think anyone would have talked about the same. I researched some time back and got to know that the government does have policies where some community members who live near border places are trained and provided weapons to defend themselves. These people actually defend their communities and work with law enforcement agencies of the Indian Government. At least KP families living in Kashmir will know that they are going to a war zone, and they will know that they can defend themselves in case any terrorist comes to their community to try and threaten their safety. Although it is easier said than done, it still makes sense to learn to defend yourself rather than being a mere "chicken-like target". 2. Work Towards Conserving Kashmiri Society: I don't think that the first point can ever be implemented, still, we can at least work towards conserving our Kashmiri Society by working on the following items. * Making it Mandatory to Attend Religious Rituals at Our Home * Making it Mandatory to Learn the Kashmiri Language for Our Kids and Us Too * Making it Mandatory as a Family Tradition to Visit Kashmir Every Year * Opening Kashmiri Society Schools * Opening Kashmiri Society Hospitals * Opening Kashmiri Society Job Centers, etc As a community, we have so many groups that have good funding. Some also have funding coming from international Kashmiri Societies, but still, we as community members are not able to create a single Kashmiri Society School or Hospital that would benefit our society! Making it mandatory to have a Kashmiri Subject for KPs in Jammu and Kashmir will help in safeguarding our language, which seems to be getting lost these days. Although some people are trying their best to preserve it, it still needs government intervention to make it mandatory in schools and colleges. Plus, we should work towards developing Hospitals and other Medical Outlets. There are several communities that have done it. For example, Sikhs have their schools and colleges that ensure that their kids get admission and resources for their overall development. Similarly, other communities also have similar institutions. Instead of attending meetings and deciding how we can go back to a place where, every year, KPs get murdered, we should focus on tightening the security in Kashmir and working towards safeguarding Kashmiri Culture by encouraging Kashmiri Kids to visit Religious Places in Kashmir. We should work towards having Safe Zones for Kashmiri Pandit Tourists during religious excursions. Currently, there are not many Sarai's or Lodging Places for Kashmiri people, especially the ones that are safe. Big hotels are there, but obviously, these are expensive, and sometimes we don't actually want to fund terrorism indirectly by living in their hotels. It will be better to have dedicated Army Protected Lodging for KP Families who come for Religious Activities to visit these places. This also makes sense because visiting these places makes a place more comfortable, or else these places will just be forgotten in time, as kids from KP Families do not visit so often to these places so often. There are many other things that we can do to ensure that there are more positive effects on Kashmiri Society, and we are not just planning to go back to Kashmir without having a proper road map. This should become the generational aspiration to preserve our Culture and Tradition and to settle in Kashmir slowly and steadily as the resources and Jobs increase. At least the elected or selected members, whichever they are, should try to focus on these things before thinking about going back to Kashmir to settle and harvest Kashmiri Pandits as "Chicken Targets".

Date: 2026-06-29 16:47:47 Tags: Tribute to Dr. Amar Malmohi With the passing of Dr. Amar Malmohi, Kashmir has lost one of its most distinguished literary voices and one of its finest human beings. Dr. Malmohi was not merely a playwright or writer; he was a cultural bridge who enriched Kashmiri literature through his original works as well as his outstanding translations. His writings reflected the ethos of Kashmir with remarkable sensitivity, while his translations brought the finest works of Indian literature closer to Kashmiri readers. His translation of Hayavadana by Girish Karnad remains a masterclass in literary translation. It preserved the philosophical depth, dramatic intensity, and poetic beauty of the original while giving it an authentic Kashmiri soul. It stands as a benchmark for translators and lovers of literature alike. Beyond his literary accomplishments, Dr. Malmohi will be remembered for his humility, grace, and warmth. He wore his scholarship lightly and treated everyone with dignity and affection. Those who had the privilege of knowing him will cherish not only his intellect but also his noble and gentle personality. His departure leaves a void in the literary and cultural landscape of Kashmir, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations of writers, playwrights, translators, and readers. I offer my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, admirers, and the entire literary fraternity. May his soul attain eternal peace, and may his words continue to illuminate minds and hearts for years to come. Om Shanti. Private: No Body:

Date: 2026-01-03 14:46:01 Tags: Kashmir, Srinagar, Home Private: No Body:

I am presently in Srinagar city with my family on a sightseeing tour of the Kashmir Valley. Along with us are the parents of my daughter-in-law. For them, this journey is filled with excitement and wonder. My daughter-in-law too is visibly thrilled. The recent snowfall in the higher reaches of Gulmarg, Sonamarg and other areas has added magic to their anticipation. Their conversations revolve around snow-covered mountains, chilly winds, photographs, and the sheer beauty of Kashmir.

I watch their excitement quietly. Their joy is genuine, innocent, and heartfelt—and I do not begrudge it. How can one not fall in love with Kashmir at first sight? The valley still carries an unmatched charm, a timeless beauty that captivates every newcomer. For them, Kashmir is a dream destination finally coming alive.

But for me, this journey is something entirely different.

I am not seeing Kashmir for the first time. I am not discovering it. I was born of this land. I belong to it in a way that cannot be explained to those who come here as visitors. Every road, every bend, every mountain silhouette stirs memories buried deep within me. And yet, as I walk through Srinagar today, I carry an unsettling feeling—I feel like an alien in my own homeland.

This is perhaps the most painful truth of my life.

While others admire the landscape, I search for familiarity that once existed. While they speak of hotels and sightseeing spots, I remember homes, neighbourhoods, temples, schools, and a way of life that once flowed naturally here. The land remains, but the life that made it mine has been ruptured. The continuity of belonging has been violently broken.

There is an invisible distance between me and my own soil.

As an aboriginal inhabitant of the Kashmir Valley, my relationship with this land is not seasonal or recreational. It is ancestral. It is emotional. It is spiritual. Yet decades of displacement, neglect, and silence have reduced me to a mere observer—someone who visits, not someone who belongs. I stand amidst the crowd, yet feel profoundly alone.

What hurts the most is the contrast.

I see my relatives enjoying Kashmir as a place of leisure, while I mourn it as a place of loss. I hear laughter where my heart recalls silence. I see excitement where my memories whisper grief. They will return with photographs and stories. I return with questions that have never found answers.

This trip has made one thing painfully clear to me: Kashmir welcomes everyone with open landscapes, but it has not yet healed its relationship with its own aboriginal children. For the world, it is paradise. For me, it is a wounded memory—beautiful, yes, but deeply scarred.

I walk through Srinagar with pride in my heritage, yet with a heaviness in my heart. I am home, and yet not home. I am present, and yet absent. This journey, meant to be a family outing, has quietly turned into an emotional reckoning—a reminder of what was taken away, and of a belonging that still waits to be restored.

Until that day comes, I remain a visitor in the land that once called me its own.