Preserving Kashmir's Culture: A Digital Journey by the Youth

Fri Dec 05 2025 16:49:49 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Discover how young creators in Kashmir are using social media to safeguard their cultural heritage and language amidst decades of conflict.

In a bid to preserve their culture, a new generation of Kashmiris is turning to social media to showcase the region's history, language, and traditions. From Muneer Ahmad Dar's storytelling on local heritage to Muhammad Faysal's Museum of Kashmir, these young creators are documenting their rich cultural tapestry and reclaiming their narrative through innovative digital content.

On a quiet summer afternoon in 2020, a calendar at a mosque in Indian-administered Kashmir caught Muneer Ahmad Dar's attention. It featured a poem written in Kashmiri, the language spoken in the region. To his surprise, he struggled to read it.

This realization sparked a quest for Mr. Dar to promote Kashmiri culture and language, leading to the launch of his social media page, 'Muneer Speaks', which has since garnered over 500 million impressions across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Realm of creativity amidst conflict, Dar is part of a wave of young creators redefining the narrative of Kashmir by focusing on the region's rich heritage rather than its strife. These creators utilize digital platforms to document and share stories, folklore, traditions, and the remnants of lifestyles past.

From Dar’s exploration of Kashmiri architecture to the more general approach of Muhammad Faysal's 'Museum of Kashmir', who documents local artefacts and traditions with quick informative posts, the emphasis is on showcasing the beauty and intricacies of Kashmir beyond its tumultuous reputation.

Experts suggest that while this revival of storytelling provides a vital counter-narrative, the accuracy of shared histories is essential. This has led another creator, Sheikh Adnan, to document the artistry and heritage behind Kashmir's famed Pashmina shawls, emphasizing their narrative of resilience.

There's also a touch of humor in the preservation efforts via creators like Seerat Hafiz, who mixes satire with culture to resonate with younger audiences, presenting Kashmiri values through contemporary formats.

Despite challenges, including the lack of recognition for Kashmiri as a language on major platforms which hampers visibility, this group of young Kashmiris remains steadfast in their dedication to preserving and reviving their culture.

They believe that retelling the stories of Kashmir is crucial to keep their heritage alive, engaging audiences through compelling narratives that highlight both their struggles and rich history. If they remember a single Kashmiri story, I helped keep alive, then my work will have meaning,” expresses Mr. Dar.