Srinagar: Author and researcher Sameer Hamdani offers a detailed study of Srinagar in his new book, presenting the city through its urban growth, cultural layers and historical memory. He focuses on how Srinagar understands itself and how its Muslim cultural identity has shaped the city over centuries.
Hamdani states that he does not write a book about Kashmir as a region. He explores Srinagar as a space shaped by urban life, material culture and centuries of exchanges. He describes the city as resilient and alive. He avoids limiting it to romantic images or simplistic narratives. The book combines written sources, architecture, oral accounts and historical texts.
He expresses concern about the loss of old Srinagar as new neighbourhoods grow on reclaimed marshes and farmlands. He links this expansion to weak urban planning and a social attitude that treats land as an endless resource. He explains the risk of the entire valley turning into one continuous city without green space. He warns that this growth threatens food security and the distinct character of the city.
Hamdani highlights the Jhelum’s past role as a central route for trade, worship and daily life. He contrasts this with the river’s present decline. He describes silted ghats, abandoned riverfronts and shrinking water bodies. He explains how the river, once integral to Muslim social and devotional life, now reflects neglect.
He also examines memory-driven narratives and stresses the need for evidence-based popular histories. He cites examples of unverified claims about graves of poets and historical figures. He urges careful research to prevent distortion.
He says young people show interest in history. He argues that well researched popular histories should enter school curricula, although he doubts current systems will allow it.
