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The word “Kashmir”
is beautiful and is defined as “a region located on
the Indian subcontinent which shares boards with Pakistan,
Afghanistan, India and China.” That definition does
not fully explain the true beauty of the land. Understanding
the origins of the word “Kashmir” may give visitors
to the region a better appreciation of this unique land and
its long and rich history. |
The oldest known written work on the history and
origin of Kashmir is known as the “Nilmat Puran.” Within
its pages is the legend of the Kashmir Valley. Within this valley
there was a lake and within the lake lived Jalodbhava, a fierce
demon who devoured the people of the land after forcing them to
endure fierce torture. An Indian Rishi, Kashyap, heard the cries
of the people and set out to aid them. After much time and trials,
the lake-home of the demon was drained and he was killed. The local
people renamed the valley, calling it Kashyap-Mar – literally
the home of Kashyap. The Sanskrit translation is Kashmir, meaning
a land without water.
This beautiful tale is a perfect representation of the rich history
of the area. Today it is well known to have fostered several obvious
religions and has been ruled by many different nations over its
long history. The influence of the many cultures and religions has
created a unique area. StStill, those that live there remember their
origins and where they came from.
With an understanding of the origins of Kashmir, modern day visitors
are likely to better grasp the cultural influences that can be seen
throughout the region. Histories, particularly origin myths, almost
always present those who study them with a better understanding
of the culture they represent. This holds true in Kashmir. Its high
mountain peeks and beautiful valleys stand as a testament. Kashmir
is more than a simple geographic location and it is still the land
without water.
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