It tackles superstition, gender bias, and existential longing, and makes a case for reviving Kashmiri literature
Author: Asif Tariq Bhat
Translated from Kashmiri: Faheem Ahmad
Publisher: Crescent Publishing House, Budgam, J & K
Year: 2026
Pp. 127
Book Review
Between Dreams and Destiny: A Voice for Kashmiri Literature
Reviewer: Dr Ashraf Amin
Lecturer, Islamic Studies, GDC Kulgam
Kashmiri language needs a resurgence. It remains neglected more significantly in our conversations despite it being our mother tongue. Our youth may feel proud to carry novels and story books of British, French, German and American authors, yet they don’t develop a taste for Kashmiri literature, full of wisdom and literary genius. Tragically, our own heritage stands marginalised. Amid this prevailing indifference, a few committed writers have emerged who strive to revive the lost glory of the Kashmiri language and its literary tradition. Asif Tariq Bhat, a young author from Ganderbal, is one of them. In the year 2024, he penned his debut novel, “Khawaban Khayalan Manz”. The novel received accolades nationwide. The book “Amid Dreams and Destinies” is the English translation of the same work undertaken by Faheem Ahmad, a young writer from Kupwara. The book is structured into seven short chapters, besides an introduction and the author’s note.
The novel addresses several fundamental existential and social issues that confront human beings in their daily lives. It has both a religious, spiritual and moral message. The central character in the novel Arham represents a person who is sensitive, empathetic, optimistic and emotional. He is the victim of people’s bullying and insults. He bores censure of his own people. His birth is thought to be unpleasant, and his presence is ominous due to a defect in one of his eyes. This reminds me of the people of Kashmir who habitually say: “Payi chhun az kamisund buth wuchh subhai” or “Khabar kus manhus drav zangi”, which reflect deeply ingrained superstitions. Arham yearns for a just and enlightened society where character is weighed over physical features.
Apart from the wonderful literary devices employed by the author, the novel goes beyond literary value. It talks about real social and individual issues. It strikes at the heart of superstitious beliefs among Kashmiris who may often be seen calling someone ill-omened or unlucky for them, and by extension, to people of different societies and cultures (p.25). Through the characters of Arham and Isra, the author has brought the plight of female children back to limelight. The author has revealed the age-old prejudices against women (pp.53-54). The author imagines a just and altruistic society where men and women receive equal treatment and compassion.
A significant moral thrust of the novel lies in its advocacy of non-judgmental attitudes and personal introspection. The narrative suggests that excessive interference in others’ lives often leads individuals to neglect their own moral and spiritual growth (p.101). Through the imagery of Muqaddas, a utopian land, the novel presents an ideal society where people of diverse backgrounds coexist harmoniously, transcending hatred and contempt (pp. 94-95). The novel details the inner struggles of man. In the character of Arham, we see a person who, at times, is disappointed with his existence but at the same time cherishes ultimate hope and peace. And he finds answers to many of his burdening questions in the land of Muqaddas. His belief that righteousness, patience, and selflessness ultimately bear fruit is realised when he becomes the king of this coveted land (pp. 108-109).
It also reveals the reason behind Arham’s special love for Surah al-Asr (Surah No. 103 of the Qur’an). Ironically, the man who is dejected, rejected, and marginalised in his homeland finds recognition and love in another land. Arham’s existential anguish finds solace in the land of Muqaddas. He receives motherly love, company of a compassionate spouse, considerate fellow beings and a serene environment. Arham, in fact, reflects the perennial longing of human beings for a perfect world where they could see peace of mind and contentment of heart prevailing. Though Arham finds Muqaddas a land of bliss, he wakes up to the reality that the land cannot be realised in worldly life, which is imperfect in multiple respects.
The novel is a welcome addition to the Kashmiri literature. Asif Tariq Bhat demonstrates commendable skill in weaving a narrative infused with moral depth and social relevance. While the novel is impressive, the author may further refine his imaginative expression and linguistic articulation by engaging more deeply with fictional works. That said, the achievement remains significant. I strongly recommend reading the original Kashmiri version of the novel; however, Faheem Ahmad’s English translation successfully preserves the essence and flavour of the original text. I wholeheartedly congratulate both Asif Tariq Bhat and Faheem Ahmad on their brilliant literary debuts.
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