Kashmir: The Scarred and the Beautiful
For two decades Kashmir, an almost entirely Muslim Indian province, has been violently oppressed by India and has been used by Pakistan as a wedge to destabilize India and as a release valve for Pakistan's own Islamic extremists. Dalrymple describes the violence and religious polarization Kashmir has experienced, then segues into discussing a recent art exhibit that explored Kashmir's rich history. The province was once an important crossroads, and as such was a melting pot for Hellenistic, Bhuddist, Hindu, and Islamic philosophies and theologies. Dalrymple elegantly portrays Kashmiri art as reflecting this tolerant heritage, which he believes holds the key to a peaceful future for the troubled region.
2008 Segues. All rights reserved.