O P Sharma
Name of the Book : Bonding with Kashmir -The ‘Sarhad’ Story
Author: Sanjay Nahar & PrashantTalnikar
Publisher: Chinar Publishers, Chavannagar, Pune
This 395-page book entitled ” Bonding with Kashmir-The ‘Sarhad’ Story” authored by Sanjay Nahar and PrashantTalnikar is a graphic narration of birth and growth of this Pune-based NGO; which is engaged in well being of the Kashmiri migrants and education of uprooted youth. The sad happenings in the Jammu and Kashmir also form a detailed account.
Padamshri Prof Rahman Rahi (Recipient of the Jnanpith Award) and also Let Gen (Retd) Vinayak Gopal Patankar have written the Foreword in laudaible terms about the Sarhad and its activities and attainments for the Kashmiri migrants, particularly the youth. Dr M Rahman, who was a top officer in J&K and also remained as VC of Aligarh Muslim University (who passed away in July, 2017) has put forth his views in this book. He observes that the language used and the narration of the turbulent period of our recent history is praiseworthy. Noted Journalist late Kuldip Nayar has also expressed his opinion in positive words as “Sarhad” is going to cross many mileposts before it reaches the destination. Both the authors: Sanjay Nahar and Prashant Talnikar have penned their viewpoints. I have gone through this 4th edition and found it interesting and informative.
In the Prologue, one stanza from the famous Kashmiri poet, Ghulam Ahmad Mahjoor is quoted as follows:
Forget your squabbles and love each other
Mix milk and sugar in sweet accord
With Hinds at the helm, Muslims to row,
Thus will our boat float smoothly
The national unity and geographical integrity is the fundamental norm deeply ingrained in the social and cultural life of our nation. The Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh (UTs) are crown-glory of India with democracy and accelerated development getting stronger day by day through the concerted endeavours of the people.
Absorbing Reading
It is noteworthy that the book is written in the story-telling style with sometimes dates mentioned in the narrative making it absorbing reading. It is a story of motivation, dedication and perseverance of a middle-class youth with dreams. He not only created a place for himself but rendered useful service to the deserving uprooted community from Kashmir valley and deprived sections of the society.
The book under review is a good production, informative and inspiring work. This publication with fine printing on quality paper-though a bit high-priced. It is a pride-possession in our book shelves.
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