The book “Maraaz: Southern Region of Kashmir” by the distinguished scholar Ghulam Nabi Aatash and compiled by Dr. Gulzar Ahmad Rather is an extensive research-based anthology that explores the historical, geographical, and cultural landscape of South Kashmir. Traditionally known as “Maraaz,” this region has played a pivotal role in shaping the identity of the Kashmir Valley. Historically, the Kashmir Valley was divided into two administrative and cultural halves: Maraaz (the southern region, typically centered on Anantnag/Bijbehara) and Kamraz (the northern region, centered on Baramulla/Sopore). This division is noted in ancient chronicles like the Rajatarangini and was traditionally linked to the mythic competition between the brothers Marhan and Kaman. Aatash’s work serves as a vital preservation of local history, especially as his declining eyesight in later years made the completion of this detailed record a challenging but essential task. The historical framework explores ancient urban centers like Babil and Vejbehour (Bijbehara), detailing their roles as capitals and trade hubs. Aatash links local geography to broader regional politics, documenting how the southern region was historically divided from its northern counterpart, “Kamraz,” often serving as a center of power during various eras.
Historical and Geographical Scope
The narrative begins with a focus on the Lidder Valley, anchored by the Lidder River (historically called Lambodari). The Lidder Valley Known historically as the Lambodari, the Lidder River is the lifeline of the Anantnag district. Its source is the Sheshnag Lake, a high-altitude glacial lake. The river is central not only to the agriculture of the region but also to the Amarnath Yatra, as the pilgrimage path traditionally winds through the Lidder Valley via Pahalgam. Aatash meticulously traces the river’s origin from glacial sources like Sheshnag near Mount Amarnath and describes its critical role in sustaining life across the region. The book highlights how the river’s flow supports iconic locations such as Pahalgam and feeds major irrigation systems like the Shah Kul (Martand Canal), a marvel of medieval Kashmiri engineering, this irrigation canal is widely attributed to Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin (r. 1420–1470). It diverted water from the Lidder to transform the arid plateaus (karewas) of Mattan into fertile agricultural land, significantly impacting the region’s economy.
Archaeological and Material Heritage
A significant portion of the book is dedicated to archaeological evidence proving the region’s ancient occupancy:
Stone Age Evidence: Aatash references scholarly excavations by experts like Dr. H.D. Sankalia, which unearthed Stone Age tools in Pahalgam dating back to glacial periods. These finds were internationally recognized at UNESCO conferences, establishing Maraaz as a site of early human life in the subcontinent. The discovery of Paleolithic tools in the Lidder Valley (particularly around Pahalgam) by teams led by Dr. H.D. Sankalia in the mid-20th century provided concrete evidence that Kashmir was inhabited during the Pleistocene era. These finds were crucial in establishing that early humans navigated the high-altitude valleys of the Himalayas.
The Martand Sun Temple is presented as a pinnacle of ancient craftsmanship. The book describes its massive stone carvings and the enduring mystery of how such immense structures were built without modern machinery. Similarly, the book covers the ancient temples and structures at Awantipora built by King Awantivarman. Martand Sun Temple was built by King Lalitaditya Muktapida (8th century CE) of the Karkota dynasty, it is one of the oldest sun temples in India. Its architecture reflects a unique blend of Gandhara, Gupta, and Hellenistic (Greco-Roman) influences, characterized by fluted columns and pediments. Awantipora Temples was built by King Awantivarman (9th century CE), the founder of the Utpala Dynasty, the Avantiswami (Vishnu) and Avantishwara (Shiva) temples represent the peak of Kashmiri stone masonry. The site remains a primary reference point for the study of ancient Hindu temple architecture in the valley.
Mythology, Folklore, and Wonders
One of the most unique aspects of Aatash’s analysis is his recording of the “Ashtoors” (mythological tales) and supernatural legends.
Nagas and Springs: The book details the origins of famous “Nags” (springs) such as Verinag, Nilnag, and the seasonal Vasuk Nag. It chronicles the central folk legend of Heemal and Nagrai, which remains deeply embedded in the Kashmiri psyche. It is the quintessential Kashmiri tragic romance. It centers on the love between a human princess (Heemal) and a Naga prince (Nagrai). In Kashmiri mythology, Nagas were considered the original protectors of the springs and the valley itself. The legend serves as an allegory for the complex relationship between human society and the natural environment (water sources). Aatash documents the rhythmic, tidal-like flow of Sund Brari and the unique tidal spring at Mando Cave. These are presented not just as geographical features but as sacred sites linked to spiritual devotion. The mention of springs like the Sund Brari which exhibits rhythmic, pulsating, or “tidal” water discharge is a fascinating intersection of geology and local belief. These phenomena are often treated as sacred “living” entities by the local population, with specific folk rituals tied to their flow cycles. Ghulam Nabi Aatash stands as a towering figure in Kashmiri literature, serving as a scholar, poet, folklorist, and translator whose life work has been dedicated to preserving the cultural heartbeat of the Kashmir Valley. His contributions to folklore preservation have been instrumental in archiving endangered oral traditions, highlighted by his significant work on the Kashur Encyclopedia of Folklore and seminal publications such as Koshur Louke Shairi Vakhnay ti vetchnay and Tahqeeq ti Tajheez.
Kashmiri Saffron (Kong): The book provides an in-depth study of Saffron cultivation in Pampore, blending botanical information with historical and legendary accounts of its introduction to the region. Kashmiri Saffron (Kong): The cultivation of saffron in Pampore is historically attributed to the Sufi saints Khwaja Masood Wali and Sheikh Sharif-ud-Din Wali, who are said to have gifted a saffron bulb to a local healer. This blend of history and legend highlights how critical botanical knowledge was woven into the cultural identity of South Kashmir. As a lifelong educator, Aatash has also made a lasting academic impact, playing a crucial role in drafting the Kashmiri language syllabus for Classes 1–12 for the J&K Board of School Education to ensure future generations remain engaged with their mother tongue. This immense dedication has been rightfully recognized through prestigious accolades, including the Sahitya Akademi Award (2008), the Bal Sahitya Puraskar (2011), and the Sahitya Akademi Translation Prize (2024) for his masterful translation of Jayakanthan’s Oru Manidhan Oru Veedu Oru Ulagam, cementing his status as a true guardian of Kashmir’s intellectual and spiritual heritage.
Spiritual Heritage: The Rishi-Sufi Movement
Maraaz is portrayed as a foundational center for the Rishi movement in Kashmir. Aatash details the lives and shrines of prominent saints:
Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Wali (Nund Rishi): The book chronicles the influence of Kashmir’s patron saint and his key disciples, such as Baba Zain-ud-Din Rishi of Ashmuqam and Baba Bam-ud-Din Rishi of Mutton. Baba Zain-ud-Din Rishi (Aishmuquam): Originally a Hindu prince who renounced his worldly life to become the primary lieutenant of Nund Rishi. His shrine at Aishmuquam is one of the most prominent pilgrimage sites in South Kashmir. Baba Bam-ud-Din Rishi (Bumzu/Mattan): Also a high-ranking disciple whose life reflects the syncretic nature of the Rishi movement, transitioning from a Brahmin background to a leading Sufi saint. Special emphasis is placed on villages like Khriram, which houses sacred relics, including the Holy Hair of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), making it a central point of pilgrimage in the southern region.
The book “Maraaz: Southern Region of Kashmir is an essential read for students seeking a profound understanding of South Kashmir’s unique topography, layered history, and vibrant cultural spirit. This comprehensive anthology expertly bridges the gap between academic research and oral tradition, offering an invaluable window into the region’s folklore and heritage. It serves as an indispensable guide for any learner dedicated to preserving and exploring the diverse identity of the Kashmir Valley.
ABOUT THE REVIEWER
Dr.Mushtaque B.Barq is a Columnist, Poet and Fiction Writer. He is the author of “Feeble prisoner, “ Wings of Love” and many translation works are credited to the author like “ Verses Of Wahab
