MIRPUR: Kashmir embodies more than just geographical boundaries; it encapsulates a sentiment, an emotion, and an impassioned spirit shared by 13 million people across both sides of the Line of Control (LOC).
These people fervently seek their internationally recognized right to self-determination, as enshrined in pertinent United Nations resolutions on the Kashmir issue.
Research conducted by APP AJK Correspondent, the centuries-old history of the Jammu & Kashmir state reveals that Kashmir transformed into an Islamic stronghold with the arrival of Sufi Saint Shah-e-Hamdan in 1332 AD, during Kota Rani’s rule.
To safeguard her Hindu Kingdom from Muslim influence, Kota Rani entered into four marriages. Notably, her union with Ranchin Shah, the Buddhist ruler who embraced Islam, marked a pivotal historical juncture. Despite her resistance, including an unsuccessful revolt supported by Hindu courtiers, she eventually succumbed to defeat and committed suicide, paving the way for Muslim rule in Kashmir.
Unfortunately, the Indian government seems intent on rewriting history, fixating on the year 1332. A distorted narrative about Kashmir is being propagated through Kalhana’s Raj Tarangini, which, upon closer examination, reveals itself as a work of poetry rather than historical fact.
Kashmir’s ties to Central Asian countries date back over 2000 years, with significant clashes occurring during the reign of Kota Rani, notably with the Mongol King Dalucha. The Shahmiri Dynasty, which governed Kashmir from 1339 to 1561, left an indelible mark on its history.
Sultan Shams ud Din Shahmiri, the dynasty’s founder, hailed from Swat in Dardistan. He actively promoted Islam in Kashmir and supported indigenous clans such as Chuks and Magrays.
The Kashmiri Era, from Rinchin Shah’s conversion to Islam in 720 AD to the Mughal Conquest in 1586, was marked by significant events. Sultan Shahmir passed away in 1942, succeeded by Sultan Jamshed Shahmir.
In 1347, Sultan Jamshed was defeated by his brother Sultan Alauddin, leading to Sultan Shahab Uddin and Sultan Qutubdin’s ascension. Sultan Shahabuddin’s reign witnessed territorial expansions and the consolidation of Islamic influence.
For the people of Jammu and Kashmir, the occupation of a significant portion of the disputed territory by India is viewed as illegitimate. The forced coexistence of Kashmiri civilians with heavily armed Indian occupying forces has proven untenable over the past 76 years.
