03/01/2025
We wish our readers a wonderful and blessed year 2025.
As we wrap up 2024, we do see more misses than hits from Shehjar. However, from its track record of about 18 years, and thousands of features contained in 109 Issues, Shehjar (www.shehjar.com) continues to stand as a beacon for cultural preservation, intellectual discourse, and community engagement. We expect that 2025 will be a year of inspiration and progress, with contributors and readers coming together to celebrate Kashmiri heritage and address contemporary issues that matter to us all.
Highlights of this first Issue of 2025
Shehjar brings forth a diverse range of articles that reflect the richness of our community. From in-depth explorations of cultural practices to thought-provoking commentary on current events, our contributors have captured the essence of Kashmiri identity and its global resonance.
In the latest issue, we are proud to feature the works of talented authors, including:
Deepak Ganju, whose “Forgotten Temples of Kashmir” feature shows our historical temples and their current state.
Dr. Shiben Kishen Raina, offers an English translation of a moving story by Late Sh. Bansi Lal Nirdosh.
Dr. Chaman Lal Raina shares his wisdom and knowledge while paying obeisance to Mata Durga.
These features, alongside those by respected authors including Dr. Abhinav Raina, Dr. Makhan Lal Babu, Col. Tej K. Tikoo, Dr. Tej K. Munshi and several others are reflective of our collective journey as a community.
A Vision for 2025
As we look forward to 2025, Shehjar is committed to growing as a platform that bridges tradition and modernity. Our goals for the coming year include:
Expanding Community Engagement: Introducing interactive virtual events such as panel discussions, storytelling sessions, and workshops to connect our global readership.
Encouraging New Voices: Actively inviting emerging writers to contribute, ensuring that Shehjar continues to reflect a broad spectrum of perspectives.
Strengthening Cultural Preservation: Publishing a series of articles dedicated to documenting Kashmiri art, folklore, and oral traditions.
Spotlighting Global Kashmiri Achievements: Highlighting the contributions of Kashmiri individuals and organizations making a difference worldwide.
A Heartfelt Thank You
None of this would be possible without the dedication of our authors and the unwavering support of our readers. You have been instrumental in making Shehjar not just a publication, but a cherished space for the Kashmiri diaspora to reconnect, reflect, and grow.
We invite you to be part of our journey into 2025. Whether through writing, sharing your feedback, or joining our upcoming initiatives, your participation ensures that Shehjar remains vibrant and meaningful.
Here’s to another year of celebrating our shared heritage and building a brighter, more connected future together.
Deepak Ganju and Arun Koul
To contribute to Shehjar, send your articles, a brief author bio, and a profile picture to [email protected].
Visit us at www.shehjar.com to read, share, and engage.
In our 35 years of trials and tribulations, the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community has seen little transformation in Kashmir Read more
