Kashmir Mahatamya - Chronicles from the paradise on Earth, PART-1
Kashmir, a divine land and the gem in India’s crown, is often viewed through the lens of political turmoil but Kashmir has been a cradle of Indian civilization and intellectual thought. The Mughal Emperor Jahangir had once said about Kashmir , “If there is a paradise on earth, it is this, it is this, it is this.” Fondly called the ‘Heaven on Earth’ and dwelling place of angles, Kashmir carries the spirit of India, so yes, this makes a sincere to provide a glimpse of Kashmir in an ‘Indic sense’ i.e. through the lens of Indian cultural nuances.
Kashmiri culture is influenced greatly by Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism and after the Islamic advent of Kashmir, it was influenced by the Persian as well as Central Asian cultures. Starting from the beginning of time, the region of Kashmir hosted a varied religious population, which includes Hindu, Sikh, Muslim, and Buddhist individuals who have contributed to the region’s beauty and had brought numerous changes in the lifestyle of Kashmiris and contributed to its cultural legacy in their way.
Origins of Kashmir : Insights from the Nilamata Purana
It is believed that the name Kashmir is a shortened form of “Kashyapa Mira”, or the “lake of the sage Kashyapa”. Turning inside out on how Rishi Kashyapa was related to Kashmir, we find his mention in the Nilamata Purana. The creation and significance of Kashmir in the Nilamata Purana, which describes the transformation of the region from a lake called Satisar into habitable land by the sage Kashyapa. The key excerpts from the text are as follows “ the valley of Kashmir was initially a vast lake called Satisar. The demon Jalodbhava terrorized the inhabitants of the surrounding regions. Sage Kashyapa, after performing severe penance, sought help from the gods to make the land habitable. The gods, including Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, assisted in the endeavor. Vishnu took the form of a boar (Varaha) and struck the mountain with his tusks, creating an outlet for the water to flow out, thus draining the lake and exposing the fertile land of Kashmir”.
The text glorifies the natural beauty and divine significance of Kashmir, describing it as a paradise on earth with its lush greenery, flowers, and clear waters. It mentions the Nagas (snake people) as the first inhabitants and their eventual displacement by other groups. The Nilamata Purana sheds light on the social customs and practices prevalent in Kashmir during that period, including details on festivals, rituals, and gender roles.
Kalhana’s magnum opus Rajatarangini
The legendary historical chronicle of early India, “Rajatarangini” (translated as ‘river of kings’), written by Kalhana, it provides a comprehensive history of Kashmir. Written in Sanskrit between 1148 and 1149 AD, consisting of around 8000 verses spread over 8 books, it tells the history of this region from its mythical beginnings to the time of its composition. His life’s work was to document its past and save its cultural legacy for future generations. A tribute to his passion, the Rajatarangini is still an essential resource for learning about this intriguing region. Not only is the Rajatarangini a dry historical narrative, but it is replete with Kalhana’s thoughts on politics, religion, and culture in Kashmir. His commitment to safeguarding Kashmir’s rich cultural legacy is evident. There are references throughout, to the natural beauty of the region and the social mores, celebrations, and rituals that were common in Kashmir during Kalhana’s.
The Rajatarangini remains a cornerstone of Kashmiri history. It continues to be researched by academics worldwide and has been translated into several languages. It gives Kashmiris living in the present a priceless window into the past. In his work, he described that the land of Kashmir had no location larger than a sesame grain without a pilgrimage and the recitation of the Om and ringing of bells in temples are claimed to have been the morning ritual in Kashmir Valley in the past. Kashmir was governed by 136 Hindu and Buddhist monarchs, according to contemporary historians. Gonanda I, who lived from 3238 to 3188 BCE, is credited as being the first known king of Kashmir; up to 3188 BCE, 84 more kings were known to have ruled the valley. Nevertheless, our school textbooks never make reference to the glorious kingdoms of Kashmir or the truth. It is commonly known that in the third century BCE, Emperor Ashoka introduced Buddhism to Kashmir. It is important to note that Buddhism was well-established in Kashmir before the reign of Emperor Ashoka. The Rajtarangini and three Chinese explorers who visited Kashmir between 630 and 730 AD both make reference to the local rulers’ dissemination of Buddhism.
Unveiling Kashmir’s Kingdoms Through Ancient Temples
The Martand Sun Temple
The Martand Sun Temple also known as Pandou Laidan is a Hindu temple dedicated to Surya and was built during the 8th century CE. The temple is located five miles from Anantnag in the Indian Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. It is now in ruins, as it was destroyed by the orders of Islamic tyrant Sikandar Shah Miri. Many sources claim that the trauma of religious conversion in early Kashmir began significantly during the reign of Sikandar Butshikan, who ruled from 1389 to 1413 CE. Sikandar, also known as Sikandar Butshikan (literally “Sikandar, the Iconoclast”), is infamous for his severe policies against Hinduism and other non Islamic faiths in Kashmir and the destruction of numerous temples, chaityas, viharas, shrines, hermitages and other holy places of the Hindus and the Buddhists. His reign marked a period of intense religious persecution and forced conversions. Sikandar’s policies included the destruction of Hindu temples, the imposition of heavy taxes on non-Muslims (jizya), and forced conversion to Islam.
The Marthand temple was built during the reign Lalitaditya Muktapidia , who is known to be the most powerful ruler and warrior of Kashmir. He was born in 699 AD as the third son of Durlabhaka-Pratapaditya of Kashmir, hailed from the Nagvanshi Karkota Kayastha Dynasty, known for their courage in battle. The Karkota Kayastha families, titled Sakhasena by the Kings of Kashmir for their valor, had long served in the kingdom’s army. Lalitaditya, originally named Muktapida, ascended to the throne in 724 AD amidst the backdrop of western invasions led by Arab ruler Mohammad Bin Qasim threatening to occupy Kashmir and Central India. During his reign, Lalitaditya confronted and defeated regional powers such as the Daradas, Kabhojas, and Bhuttas of Ladakh under Tibetan rule, expanding his control over Ladakh. His alliance with Yashovarman successfully thwarted Arab attempts to invade Kashmir. Lalitaditya also launched campaigns westward into Turkestan via Kabul and southward into territories controlled by the Rashtrakutas in Maharashtra, the Pallavas in southern India, and Kalinga. His military successes even extended to Central China, drawing comparisons to Alexander the Great.
Under his rule, the Kingdom of Kashmir prospered immensely, leveraging its newfound wealth to embark on extensive infrastructure projects and temple constructions, marking a period of significant development. Despite his strong adherence to Hindu traditions, he was known as a tolerant and compassionate ruler who respected all religions. His sudden death in 760 AD marked the end of the Lalitaditya era, leaving behind a legacy of military prowess, cultural advancement, and economic prosperity in Kashmir.
From the ruins of the temple and related archaeological findings, it can be said that the temple was an excellent specimen of Kashmiri architecture, which had blended the Gandharan, Gupta, and Chinese forms of architecture. The temple appears in the list of centrally protected monuments as Kartanda.
“The Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor participated in a religious ceremony held in the ruins of the 8th century Martand Sun temple, a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India. This temple has been recognized as a “Site of national importance” — Indian Express (10 May 2022)
“The 8th-century Martand Sun Temple in Kashmir’s Anantnag which was destroyed centuries ago, will finally be restored for devotees and visitors. A high-level meeting of government officials, set to take place on Monday, will make a final decision on the protection of the temple. According to the official notice informing about the meeting, the officials will also discuss the installation of the Emperor Lalitaditya Muktapida statue on Martand Sun Temple’s premises.” — Hindustan Times (1st April 2024)
Avantiswami Temple
Stories of a bygone period are whispered about the Avantiswami Temple, a stunning ruin on the banks of the Jhelum River in Kashmir, in Awantipora, Pulwama. Constructed around the 9th century CE by King Avantivarman, this temple honoring Lord Vishnu is an example of Kashmir’s exquisite stone temple design. Avantivarman is a notable ruler known for consolidating power in Kashmir. He is the founder of the Utpala dynasty. He ruled Kashmir from 855 to 883 CE. His court took pride in hosting esteemed poets, Ranakar and Ananvardhana. During his rule price of paddy is said to have shown a deep decline from 36 to 20 dinars.
Suyya, who was a great engineer in Avantivarman’s kingdom is said to have regulated the waters of the river Vitasta such that the water was channeled for irrigation purposes and each village was allotted as much water as was necessary for its crops. As narrated by kalhana, when this great engineer was working to drain out flood water, no people were coming forth to plunge themselves into gushing water to clear the silt that caused the flood, he thereupon ordered to throw gold coins into the water, and a large number of people plunged into the river to get as many coins as they could. The skill of Suyya worked and in the process of retrieving the coins, the river was cleared of silt. The town Sopore (then Suyyapura), which Suyya built on the banks of the Jhelum River, commemorates his name. King Avantivarman died in 883 CE and his death was followed by a civil war among his descendants.
Avantiswami Temple, which was formerly a part of a bigger complex that most likely included a Shiva temple, is a symbol of the thriving Hindu culture of that era. The elaborate carvings on the front porch, despite the damage, indicates the grandeur that this temple complex had held. This historic landmark serves as a reminder of Kashmir’s intriguing history and is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India today. Locals refer to it as “Pandav Lari,” making a connection with the Mahabharata’s fabled Pandavas. Travelers looking for a glimpse into Kashmir’s old spirit and history aficionados are drawn to the Avantiswami Temple because of its unique history and artistic relics.
Shankara Gaurishwara Temple
Shankara Gaurishwara temple was built by Shankaravaraman from the Utpala dynasty. The east entrance of the temple boasts intricate carvings that look brand new despite being built in the late 9th century! These detailed sculptures adorn both the outer facade and the inner surfaces of the entrance porch. A symmetrical pattern is produced by the way the roof parts, or pediments, are placed perfectly on top of one another. The entrance columns are also elaborately carved in a style reminiscent of Kashmiri architecture, especially in detail. The base of the temple and the adjoining shrine sit on a platform with open columns (peristyle) within a walled enclosure. This enclosure seems to have had a closed walkway with small compartments (cellular passage), although only remnants remain today.
Shankaravarman, who constructed this stunning temple, succeeded Avantivarman in 883 CE. The death of Avantivarman led to a power struggle, his son had to contend for the throne with his cousin Sukhavarman, who had been set up as Yuvaraja, as well as with other rivals. When the civil war had ended, Shankaravarman, according to the Chronicler Kalhana, started on a round of foreign expeditions. Kalhana, with poetic magniloquence, describes these as “reviving the tradition of the conquest of the world”. He was a powerful conqueror and led a vast army to reclaim lost lands and expand his empire. He started by defeating rulers in the south and west, but the exact details of his conquests remain unclear. His major victory seems to be against Alakhana, who ceded some territory. Historians still debate the full extent of his empire. Sankaravarman’s greatest victory against the king of Gujara in Punjab, the latter being helped by the Lalliya Shahi. Sankaravarman led a successful expedition to Kabul, where he defeated Lalliya, the Brahman ruler of Kabul.
Vaishno Devi Temple
The amazing network of temples in Kashmir and the charming legends surrounding them make up the next foundations of its rich legacy. The temple is located on Trikuta hill 12 kilometres from Katra and stands at a height of 1,585 metres. The location of the temple, atop Trikuta hill in the Rigveda, is also mentioned and there is mention of the worship of goddess Vaishno Devi in the Mahabharata as well.
According to legend, Arjuna worshipped Durga prior to the Kurukshetra War on Lord Krishna’s advice in order to receive her blessings. Mother Goddess, in the form of Vaishno Devi appeared before him, pleased by his devotion. Upon the goddess’ appearance, Arjuna began to worship her by reciting a stotram that contains the verse “Jambookatak Chityaishu Nityam Sannihitalaye,” which translates to “you who always dwell in the temple on the slope of the mountain in Jambhu,” most likely alluding to the modern-day city of Jammu. Former Jammu and Kashmir Governor Jagmohan once stated the same adding “As Arjuna worships Vaishno Devi, he addresses her as the ultimate Yoni, one who is impervious to deterioration and decay, the Mother of the Vedas and the Science of Vedanta, the embodiment of victory itself.” Additionally, it is widely accepted that the temples at Kol Kandoli and Bhawan were constructed by the Pandavas as a sign of respect and appreciation for the Mother Goddess. Five stone monuments, said to represent the rock emblems of the five Pandavas, are located on a mountainside next to the Trikuta Mountain, with a view of the Holy Cave.
Author Pintchman attributes all abilities to Vaishno Devi, the great goddess Mahadevi, who is identified with the entirety of creation. He adds, “More than any other goddess, pilgrims associate Vaishno Devi with Durga, whom Punjabis (and others) often refer to as Sheranwali, “the Lion-rider.” Both Hindus and Sikhs regard the temple as sacred. Numerous well-known saints have paid the shrine a visit, including Swami Vivekananda. This is also the home of the snow-formed Shivalinga, the well-known Amarnath. Other the noteworthy temples in the Anantnag District are Mamal Temple and Verinag Temple.
Wangath Temple Complex
The Wangath Temple Complex is located near Narang in Wangath. As per the historical chronicle of Kashmir, ‘Rajatarangini’, in the 3rd century BC, King Ashoka of the Maurya dynasty had built the city of Srinagar, 20km from present-day Srinagar and in his son Jaluka constructed Wangath temples. He built a stone temple at this site in 137 BC. During 713–735 AD Lalitaditya Muktapida, the ruler of the Karkota dynasty of the Kashmir region donated a large amount to the shrine after his victorious expeditions. During 855–883 AD, King Avanti Varman constructed a stone pedestal with a silver conduit for the bathing of the sacred idols but over time, Mughal kings plundered the treasury of this shrine.
The Ancient Temple
In the heart of Ladhoo village, nestled within the Pulwama district of Kashmir, lies the enigmatic Ancient Temple. This monument stands amidst a natural pond, known as Sanz Haer Nag or Sanyasar Nag, and remains shrouded in some mystery. Built around the 8th century AD, the temple’s exact dedication is unknown. While some call it the Sun Temple, Jeevanath Temple, or Shiva temple, historical evidence hasn’t confirmed any of these names. Officially listed as the Ancient Temple, Ladhoo, it boasts a unique architectural style — square on the outside and surprisingly circular within. Facing southwest, the entrance is adorned with an arched pediment. Today, this archaeological treasure, along with the surrounding pond and a small park, is under the protection of the Archaeological Survey of India’s Srinagar circle.
Kapal Mochan Teerath
Amidst the beauty of South Kashmir, in the village of Nagbal, lies the Kapal Mochan Mandir, also known as Kapal Mochan Teerath or Tirtha Raj Kapal Mochan. This revered Hindu pilgrimage site holds immense significance for Kashmiri Hindus, especially those who have lost loved ones prematurely. Believed to be one of the three main places in India for performing rituals to offer salvation to such souls, the Kapal Mochan Mandir draws thousands of devotees, particularly Kashmiri Pandits, every year during a three-day pilgrimage in August. The temple’s rich history stretches back to the Puranic period, with connections to Lord Shiva.
However, the 1990s saw a period of unrest in Kashmir, and the historic temple remained closed for nearly two decades. Thankfully, it has since reopened its doors to pilgrims. The Kapal Mochan Mandir is more than just a pilgrimage site; it’s a place of solace and spiritual renewal. Surrounded by springs believed to possess curative powers, the temple offers a unique setting for performing rituals like Shradh (ancestral rites) for children and those who met an unnatural death. Additionally, the Upanayana, a sacred thread ceremony marking a boy’s entry into formal religious education, is also performed here. This blend of historical significance, spiritual purpose, and unique features makes the Kapal Mochan Mandir a cherished landmark for Kashmiri Hindus.
The Kheer Bhawani Temple
The Kheer Bhawani Temple also called the Ragnya Devi Temple, is tucked away in the picturesque village of Tulmulla, Jammu and Kashmir, 25 km northeast of Srinagar. The temple, which honors the Hindu goddess Kheer Bhavani, is constructed around a holy spring. For Kashmiri Hindus, Kheer Bhavani, or the “Milk Goddess,” is a revered deity. She is revered by many as their Kuladevi, a guardian goddess. Sweet rice pudding, or kheer, is usually offered to the goddess to placate her. The annual fair hosted at the temple draws one of the biggest Hindu assemblies in the area, after the Amarnath yatra. The Maharajas, Pratap Singh and Hari Singh of Jammu and Kashmir who belong to the Dogra dynasty are to be commended for their efforts in the construction and repair of the temple.
The Legacy Of Kashmiri
During the first millennium, the Kashmir region became an important center of Hinduism, and later, Buddhism. Between the 7th and 14th centuries, the region witnessed the rise of a series of Hindu dynasties and Kashmiri Shaivism. The rich cultural heritage of Kashmir is preserved through its unique and beautiful language, Kashmiri, also known as Koshur. The Kashmiri language, rich with Sanskrit influences, is a vital part of the cultural identity of Kashmiri Hindus. Kashmiri Hindus favor words derived from Sanskrit and write Kashmiri in the Sarada script.
Traditional songs, hymns, and folklore passed down through generations keep the language and its cultural context alive. Its greatness lies in its literary heritage, linguistic features, and the resilience of its speakers. The Kashmiri language is more than just a means of communication; it is a symbol of their identity and heritage. It includes the set of vowel sounds that are rare in other Indo Aryan languages. It also features a system of tonal distinctions which are relatively uncommon in the region, adding a melodic quality to the spoken language. Linguists and scholars have shown significant interest in Kashmiri due to its unique features and its role in understanding the evolution of Indo-Aryan languages. Studies on its syntax, morphology, and phonetics contribute valuable insights to the field of linguistics. It has historically been written in several scripts, including Sharada, Devanagari, and Perso-Arabic. This diversity reflects the various cultural and religious influences that have shaped the region. Today, the Perso-Arabic script is most commonly used, but efforts to revive and maintain the use of other scripts continue.
The language, Kashmiri, has a rich literary tradition that dates back centuries. The earliest known texts in Kashmiri are from the 14th century, and the language has generated an abundance of poetry, folklore, and religious texts. Kashmiri belongs to the Dardic group of the Indo-Aryan languages, which is a part of the larger Indo-European family. This lineage provides Kashmiri with a distinct position within the Indo-Aryan branch, with influences from Sanskrit, Persian, and later Urdu, again reflecting the diverse historical interactions in the region. Despite challenges such as political conflict and the dominance of other languages, Kashmiri remains resilient. Efforts to revitalize and promote the language include government initiatives, educational programs, and cultural festivals. These efforts aim to ensure that Kashmiri continues to thrive for future generations. It is the responsibility of the current speakers to carry forward this cultural heritage to the future generations.
To be continued ..
From the AUTHOR, Hamsini Deshmukh ( ME23B2016), I am a great admirer of Kashmir and its alluring beauty, it’s my hobby to read about and explore Kashmir and this went on to be a motive for me to bring this article together… The invaluable legacy of India’s crown jewel-Kashmir and its long forgotten heritage should be popularized is what I contemplate.
I have an innate attraction towards Indian Heritage, classical music, yoga, fascinating historic legends, and all Indic stuff! I have learnt classical music for 5 years and taken extensive classes in Sanskrit shlokas for about 15 years, which inspired and developed fond interest in me to study about Mahabharata, Ramayana and I am currently trying to learn and understand the original 24000 verses of Valmiki Ramayana….
