About Kashmiri Pandits

Abstract

This chapter provides important details about Kashmir and Kashmiri Pandits, including (a) etymology and geology of the Kashmir valley; and (b) genealogy, culture, secularism and global adaptability of Kashmir Pandits. It also discusses why Kashmiri Pandits are called by their nicknames—Dal-e-Bhatta (Bhatta as a dal (pulses)) or Dal-e-Gadva, (pot of dal)—and how their nicknames depict their general behaviour—a peaceful disposition, resilience, flexibility and tenacity, non-confrontational, which should be considered as their strength, and not as weakness. This chapter highlights uniqueness of the cultural and religio-spiritual aspects of Kashmir Pandits, which potentially faces extinction if they continue to live outside their nursery—their homeland of Kashmir—and don’t return home. The Pandits of Kashmir are an endangered community.