‘Focus on Jammu and Kashmir’ by Wali Mohammed Aseer (Aseer Kishtwari), a Sahitya Academy Awardee is a voluminous work. This book, published by Crescent Publications, Jammu, is a monumental work spanning over 1264 pages.
With a foreword by noted historian Dr Fida Mohammed Husnain, the book stands out as a unique blend of history, culture, politics, geography, and literature focused on the diverse and complex region of Jammu and Kashmir.
The depth, detail, and breadth of this encyclopaedic work makes it one of the most comprehensive accounts of the erstwhile state. Divided into two parts, the book is both a historical archive and a socio-cultural commentary, offering readers insights into not only past events but also the spirit and essence of the people and places of Jammu and Kashmir.
The opening chapter lays the foundation with exhaustive details about the geography, population, flora and fauna, climate, irrigation, agriculture, minerals, communication systems, administrative setup, and cultural tapestry of the region.
Aseer captures the variety and richness of the landscape—from majestic peaks and serene meadows to sacred springs and lush orchards. This chapter not only informs but also evokes a sense of wonder at the natural and human diversity that coexists within the region’s boundaries. The inclusion of historical infrastructure such as the evolution of the Civil Secretariat adds an administrative dimension to the narrative.
The history of Jammu is told through the lens of its ancient dynasties—Bodh Arjan, Rai, Dhar, Dev, and others—each bringing its own legacy to the development of the region.
The second chapter traces the evolution of power, local politics, and alliances, leading up to the rise of Gulab Singh and the Treaty of Amritsar. Aseer pays careful attention to the complexities of regional governance and external influence, weaving in imperial politics and the role of the Sikh empire.
This narrative is not only informative but also contextualizes Jammu’s historical importance within the broader subcontinental power dynamics.
The third chapter of the book explores the smaller princely states that made up the larger Jammu region—Reasi, Samba, Bhaderwah, Rajouri, Poonch, and others. These micro-histories are vital in understanding the regional diversity of governance and cultural identity. Aseer demonstrates his meticulous research by highlighting the unique trajectories of these states, offering rare insights that are often missing from mainstream historiography.
In recounting Ladakh’s history, the author brings in Buddhist and Dogra influences while detailing early dynasties and conquests. He discusses Ladakh’s strategic location and cultural richness, including Leh and Kargil, while addressing Dogra expansionism and Muslim incursions.
Though brief, this chapter reflects Ladakh’s distinctiveness as both culturally Tibetan and politically integral to the state.
Kashmir’s fabled beauty is matched by its layered history—from the Lohar dynasty to the Shahmiri and Chak periods, followed by Mughal, Afghan, and Sikh rule. Aseer presents Kashmir as a centre of power, culture, and conflict.
Notably, the author introduces pivotal figures like Rentchan Shah and Kota Rani, often overlooked in conventional narratives. The focus on treaties and dynastic transitions sets the stage for the later political history of Kashmir.
The author also captures the Dogra rule under Maharajas Gulab Singh, Ranbir Singh, Pratap Singh, and Hari Singh, chronicling their contributions, reforms, and political dilemmas.
Aseer offers a portrayal of the freedom struggle, the emergence of the Muslim Conference, the Quit Kashmir movement, and the role of the National Conference. The signing of the Instrument of Accession and its implications are discussed in detail and depth.
This portion forms a crucial bridge between pre-independence and post-independence politics.
The author also offers rich and varied details in this book about India’s complaint to the UN, speeches by leaders like Sheikh Abdullah, and various UN resolutions. While doing so, he balances political perspectives, making the reader aware of the legal and diplomatic dimensions of the dispute while also capturing the human tragedy behind the politics.
The book further focuses on post-accession Kashmir under various leaders—Sheikh Abdullah, Bakhshi Ghulam Mohammad, and others. The formation of the Interim Government, Article 370, Delhi Agreement of 1952, and constitutional developments are analysed thoroughly.
Aseer does not shy away from controversial events like the 1965 war, 1971 war, Hazratbal incidents, hijackings, and the rise of militancy. His narrative reflects both objectivity and emotional engagement with the region’s turbulent path.
The book has a chronological recounting of major events in the years of insurgency, communal violence, political assassinations, peace talks, elections, and military interventions. The exodus of Kashmiri Pandits, massacres, Parliament attack, and initiatives like the Hurriyat Conference and Mufti Sayeed’s government are documented in detail.
Aseer’s dispassionate tone amid this chaotic period reflects his attempt to preserve an accurate record of events while honoring the memories of the lives lost.
One of the most vibrant sections of the book, is its focus on museums, art forms, architecture, dance, festivals, cuisine, and linguistic diversity of J&K. The author’s love for the culture of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh shines here, making it a delightful read.
His inclusion of lesser-known folk traditions, regional art forms like Pahari paintings, and detailed analysis of regional languages contributes immensely to the cultural scholarship of the region.
Turning his focus to his native region – the Chenab Valley, comprising Kishtwar, Doda and Ramban districts, the author paints an intimate portrait of erstwhile Doda district, highlighting its terrain, people, dialects, and socio-economic conditions.
The documentation of the region’s biodiversity, customs, and infrastructure provides a localised case study within the broader context of the state. He traces the lineage of the Panjsasis and other local rulers, including a comprehensive history of Bhaderwah and Kishtwar.
The detail with which he presents the dynasties—from Raja Nagpal to Maharaja Hari Singh—reveals deep local knowledge. The integration of oral traditions and historical texts adds richness to the narrative.
The book focuses on religious diversity of Jammu and Kashmir through its places of worship and saints. The author presents spiritual leaders across Islamic, Hindu, Sikh, and Buddhist traditions, emphasizing syncretism. He includes well-known sites like Sarthal Devi and Dastagir Sahib along with lesser-known village shrines, offering a map of the J&K's sacred landscape.
This book also celebrates linguistic and literary life in Doda and beyond. It also provides a comprehensive list of languages spoken including Bhaderwahi, Bhalesi, Kishtwari, Sirazi, Pogli, Gojri—and discusses literary figures and organizations that have kept regional languages alive. This is a rare and valuable contribution to language preservation of Chenab valley.
The final chapter provides biographical accounts, reviews, and tributes to Aseer from literary peers, historians, and journalists. It frames his journey as both a chronicler and cultural custodian of Doda and Jammu and Kashmir. It is not just self-reflection but also a validation of his lifelong dedication to literature and historiography.
The book concludes with sixteen appendices, including important documents such as the “Naya Kashmir” manifesto, multiple UN resolutions, ceasefire agreements, and the Dixon Report. These documents are essential primary sources that support the chapters and enhance the book’s credibility as a historical archive.
‘Focus on Jammu and Kashmir’ is not merely a book—it is a repository of history, culture, struggle, and identity.
Wali Mohammed Aseer combines the eye of a historian with the heart of a poet, giving readers a comprehensive view of Jammu and Kashmir while never losing touch with the local, the intimate, and the personal.
The book’s strengths lie in its attention to detail, its incorporation of multiple perspectives, and its fearless approach to politically sensitive subjects.
While its length and density may seem daunting to some, for scholars, researchers, and lovers of the region, this work is indispensable.
It bridges the macro and the micro, the political and the cultural, the personal and the historical. The author’s work deserves to be celebrated as a landmark contribution to South Asian regional studies.
(Sadaket Malik is a Researcher, Empaneled Translator under NTM CIIL Mysore. sadaketmalik.blogspot.com/sadaketamalik.wordpress.com)
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