In 2020, Muneer Ahmad Dar noticed a poem written in Kashmiri on a calendar at a mosque in Indian-administered Kashmir, which he found difficult to read. This prompted him to reflect on the declining use of the Kashmiri language among younger generations, as English, Urdu, and Hindi have gained popularity. To address this, Dar created a social media page called Muneer Speaks, aimed at promoting Kashmiri culture. Over five years, his efforts have amassed more than 500 million impressions across platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
Dar emphasizes the importance of sharing stories about Kashmir’s history, proverbs, folklore, and daily life. He is part of a growing group of young content creators striving to highlight the region’s heritage, often overshadowed by decades of conflict and violence. As many young people migrate from Kashmir in search of better opportunities, a new narrative is emerging that focuses on art and culture.
His initial focus on the Kashmiri language has since expanded to include various cultural aspects, such as old architecture and local cuisine. Other creators, such as journalist Muhammad Faysal, document Kashmir’s lesser-known artifacts and traditions through their Instagram page, Museum of Kashmir. This page features videos and insights that encourage followers to see the region’s history in a new light.
To ensure accuracy, many creators collaborate with researchers to verify their content. For example, filmmaker Sheikh Adnan runs a page dedicated to Kashmir’s famed Pashmina shawls, aiming to shift perceptions by emphasizing the cultural significance behind these textiles.
While these efforts face challenges, such as the absence of Kashmiri as a recognized language on social media platforms, campaigns are underway to include it in services like Google Translate. Content creators assert that their work is essential in preserving Kashmiri culture and heritage, emphasizing its resilience amidst adversity.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crr2vq1r7w4o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss