31 years ago today - January 19th, 1990 - marks the anniversary of the genocide and exodus of Kashmiri Pandits (Hindus) due to extremism in Kashmir AKA India’s hidden gem and one of the most breathtaking places in the world (and yes it snows here!!). Over 600,000 Hindus fled & were displaced - many becoming refugees within their own country. Over 100 rapes & 1,100 torture killings also took place, along with thousands of more deaths in refugee camps post-exodus.
Both sides of my family are originally from the beautiful valley of Kashmir and were forced to flee their homes & leave everything behind during the exodus. Due to the continuing conflict in Kashmir and being born & raised to Indian-Kashmiri parents in America, I have always felt a disconnect to my Kashmiri heritage. Thus, I decided to learn Kashmiri to sing this cover “Aalav: The Calling” by Rahul Wanchoo (originally written by the poet Late Shafi Shaida and sung by Waheed Jeelani post-exodus of Kashmiri Pandits), which sings about missing and calling to go home in the Kashmiri language.
In the video, I am wearing a phiren (Kashmiri cloak). There are also many flower arrangements to showcase the famous flower gardens in Kashmir, along with some props, such as hukus (hookah), shikara (boat), and samovar (kettles)! Shoutout to Romica Raina for help with these props!
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Aalav: The Calling - Rahul Wanchoo (Kashmiri Song Guitar Cover)
Kashmiri Pandit Exodus
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