krishnendu's reviews
41 reviews

A compelling read on the often overlooked impacts of the Kashmir conflict on its women, featuring firsthand accounts from the militants' mothers, wives, and Kashmiri separatists like Asiya Andrabi and activists such as Anjum Zamarud Habib themselves. It depicts the resilience of women enduring immense pain amid the persistent conflict. The book exposes the social and legal tribulations faced by Kashmiris due to heavy military interference in daily life - an uncomfortable yet crucial glimpse for an Indian reader like myself.

Positives first, the narrative provides a comprehensive overview of the suffering endured by Kashmiris under the government's policies in India-administered Kashmir, and the repercussions of pervasive military intervention in daily life. It delves into the psychology of Separatists and portrays the aftermath of conflicts through deeply personal and disturbing accounts. The tumultuous relationship between Faith and State is discussed in great detail. The Kashmiri blood games played by both Pakistan and India are evident.

However, the narrative is not without its drawbacks. A discernible bias, potentially stemming from the author's upper-class Pakistani Muslim perspective, occasionally surfaces. The initial segments made sweeping generalisations about India which paradoxically contradicts the author's stated intent of challenging Kashmiri stereotypes. Additionally, the text displays a notable sampling bias by predominantly featuring Muslim women from thr India-administered Kashmir, possibly leading to crude generalisations.

Overall, the book serves as a valuable window for outsiders to understand the ongoing Kashmir situation. Despite occasional bias and stylistic discomfort, it remains a significant read, offering a nuanced and multilayered perspective on the complexities of the conflict.

A beautiful and personal account of the Islamic revolution and the first gulf war through a child's eyes. Delightful comic panels!