Reading Dr Abdul Ahad Through Annal Of History

Reading Dr Abdul Ahad Through Annal Of History          

From "Kashmir to Frankfurt' To ''Shawls and Shawlbafs of Kashmir"

Dr Basharat Khan 

In the heart of Fateh Kadal, Srinagar, a historical area known for being the foremost place where from Islam spread throughout the Valley (Khanqah Mulla) and the first spark of Organized Political Movement started with the establishment of Reading Room Party amidst the confluence of history and culture, a remarkable individual was born; Dr. Abdul Ahad on 13 Nov 1947. His journey from the cobbled streets of Fateh Kadal to the echelons of academia and administration is a testament to his innate talent, unwavering diligence, and steadfast commitment to scholarly pursuits.

Educated at Mission School Fateh Kadal, State School MPHS Dilawar Khan, S.P. College, and the PG Department of History at Kashmir University, Dr. Abdul Ahad’s thirst for knowledge saw him earning a Ph.D. from the Centre of Central Asian Studies at Kashmir University, focusing on "Ladakh: A Socio-Economic Study."

His career began humbly as a lecturer at Amar Singh College, yet his intellectual curiosity and leadership abilities soon propelled him into broader administrative roles. As the Director of Archives, Archaeology, Museums, Research, and Public Library, and later as Additional Secretary, Special Secretary, and Commissioner Secretary in the secretariat, His influence was far-reaching and tenure was marked by significant contributions, including the unearthing of 3rd-century B.C. terracotta tiles from Hutmara, Anantnag, which illuminated the Liddar Valley Civilization, and the discovery of a substantial buried treasure from Maidan-e-Chogul, Hundwara, providing insights into the socio-economic systems of early Kashmir.

A celebrated writer and historian, Dr. Abdul Ahad's literary contributions have enriched the academic world. His publications, such as "Kashmir to Frankfurt: A Study of Arts & Crafts" and "Kashmir Rediscovered: Vicissitudes of Kashmir's Historical Individuality & Assertion of Kashmiri Personality," have been lauded by the scholarly community. He has also written two books on administration while being in the JK Secretariate " Administrative Reforms" and "Level Jumping Justified". His ability to distill complex historical events into engaging narratives, coupled with his razor-sharp prose, has earned him recognition as a columnist, historian, social scientist, and a celebrated author. His scholarly articles have graced the pages of prestigious journals like Islam and the Modern Age (Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi), Link (New Delhi), Patriot (New Delhi) Struggle (Calcutta), and Countercurrents, among others.

"Kashmir Rediscovered" is a captivating read, drawing readers in with its engaging writing and deep insights. With chapters titled simply, like "A Celestial Compromise" and "Of Angelic Similes," Dr Abdul Ahad skillfully tells the story of Kashmir's past. Through careful analysis and clear explanations, he helps us understand the struggles and victories of the Kashmiri people throughout history. This book not only celebrates Kashmir's heritage but also shows how its spirit has endured through tough times. Widely praised, "Kashmir Rediscovered" is a testament to his dedication to uncovering the truth about Kashmir.

His profound understanding of socio-political landscape of Kashmir is evident in his book "Kashmir: Triumphs & Tragedies." This work presents a fresh perspective on Kashmir, shedding light on its accomplishments and the myriad hardships endured by its people.This narrative explores the resultant agonies and aspirations of the Kashmiri people, perpetuated injustices, and human rights violations, all of which fuel the Kashmiri urge for change.

His latest addition to this rich tapestry of scholarship is "Shawls & Shawlbafs of Kashmir"- Legends of Unsung Heroes. In this book, he explores the intricate world of Kashmiri shawls and the resilient Shawlbafs who have woven not only exquisite shawls but also the fabric of Kashmiri identity. This work unveils the untold tales of these artisans; of their struggles and triumphs, of forgotten heroines and unsung heroes whose contributions have often been overlooked by apathetic historians.

"Shawls & Shawlbafs of Kashmir" delves into the artistry of shawl making, the interplay of craft and culture, and the economic trials faced by the shawlbafs. It vividly illustrates how these artisans have shaped the essence of Kashmir, their labor fueling its might while simultaneously becoming a source of exploitation and untold tragedies. He resurrects the legends of these forgotten artisans, highlighting their determination and creative genius that constructed Kashmir's historical tapestry. The book also illuminates the courage of Kashmiri women, whose defiant songs spun alongside yarn have echoed through the ages.

In his commendation, Prof (Dr) Joseph Wronka, the Representative to the United Nations for the IASSW, praises Dr. Abdul Ahad's book for its ability to bring the stories of Kashmir's unsung heroes and heroines to the forefront.

"Dr Abdul Ahad brings the legends of unsung heroes and heroines of Kạshmir into the public focus with tact, verve, and a good and solid ethical spirit to engage in a creative dialogue with the reader to move towards socially just world, thus constructed from the pillars of human rights."

The book has garnered acclaim from Victoria Schofield, renowned author of "Kashmir in the Crossfire" (1996) and "Kashmir in Conflict" (2000, 2003, 2010, 2020), Professor Romila Thapar, renowned historian and author, Professor Sheikh Muhammad Iqbal, author and historian, and Professor Harbans Mukhia, author and historian.

Peerzada Abdal Mehjoor, a renowned broadcast journalist, lauds Dr. Abdul Ahad's latest literary endeavor, "Shawls and Shawlbafs of Kashmir-Legends of Unsung Heroes," as a captivating and substantial addition to Kashmir's literary landscape. In his appraisal, Peerzada Abdal Mehjoor emphasizes Dr. Abdul Ahad's groundbreaking exploration of the Zaldagar massacre of 1865, a pivotal yet often overlooked chapter in Kashmir's history. He applauds Dr. Abdul Ahad's rigorous research, noting its expansive scope and global relevance, which elevates the book to a status of unparalleled scholarly significance. Abdal Mehjoor expresses confidence that Dr.Abdul Ahad's work will soon be accessible to eager readers, poised to enrich their understanding of Kashmir's rich cultural tapestry.

In his recent Facebook post, renowned author and columnist Zahid G Muhammad (ZGM) shares his excitement and admiration for Dr. Abdul Ahad's latest work, "Shawls and Shawlbafs of Kashmir."

"I had been enthusiastically waiting for Dr Abdul Ahad's pioneering work on Shawls and Shawlbafs of Kashmir for quite some time. Yesterday, I had an opportunity to glance through the author's copy; it is a beautifully brought-out voluminous book that I would like to describe as a lovely wedlock between art and scholarship. Besides, Dr Abdul Ahad tells the story about the genesis of the Shawl and the heroes behind the making of shawls in poetic prose; the book has scores of beautiful pictures of the shawls, some of them very rare, found in European Museums that keep one glued to the book. Every picture opens like a book to tell a story about the masterpieces that had been part of the wardrobes of royal courts in Europe and South Asia. 

Mr Isfar Ali's cover, with a shawl maker working on a Jamawar and Khanqah Moula in the background, is a masterpiece that sets one thinking about the grandeur of Kashmir Shawls. The book also has some lovely paintings by notable Kashmir artist Masood Hussain that add to the book's beauty. 

Some nice blurbs inside the cover speak that historians across the globe have hailed the book. 

It can be said the book, by all stretch of imagination, is magnum opus on the subject."

Similarly Peerzada Masrat Shah in her review of "Shawls & Shawlbafs of Kashmir," beautifully captures Dr. Abdul Ahad's meticulous research and storytelling prowess. She illustrates the evolution of Kashmiri shawls from practicality to artistry, showcasing the resilience of the Kashmiri people. Through evocative prose, Dr. Abdul Ahad's narrative transports readers to the origins of the Kashmir shawl, highlighting the craftsmanship of the unsung heroes—the Shawlbafs. The book explores the economic and socio-political dimensions of the shawl industry, all while celebrating Kashmir's cultural renaissance. Dr. Abdul Ahad's work is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Kashmiri people, embodied in their beloved shawls."

This captivating chronicle honors the indomitable spirit of those who have shaped history thread by thread, offering a narrative that transcends time.

His works stand as a testament to his dedication to preserving and elucidating the rich cultural and historical heritage of Kashmir, ensuring that the tales of its people continue to inspire and educate future generations.

The author is a writer, columnist, and critic, and the author of the book "Literary Beats." He can be reached at chogalwriter76@gmail.com/ devnalwhispers.in.