29-10-2023 : Dr. Karan Singh, a renowned scholar, former Union Minister, and a prominent figure from the erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir, has expressed his belief that it may not be possible for Kashmiri Pandits to return to their homeland. He made these comments while speaking at the release of the book ‘Ancient & Lost Temples of Kashmir’ by Avanti Sopory.
Dr. Karan Singh acknowledged the efforts of successive governments to facilitate the return of Kashmiri Pandits to the region by constructing safe zones and organizing programs. However, he expressed his skepticism about the feasibility of their return, stating that some individuals might return, but many face challenges in doing so.
He emphasized the significant contributions of the Kashmiri Pandit community to his own learning and knowledge, noting that his “vidya” (knowledge) comes from them. Dr. Karan Singh expressed his sorrow at witnessing the struggles faced by this educated and brilliant community.
Dr. Karan Singh discussed the historical tragedies that Kashmir has experienced, with the migration of Pandits in 1989-90 being the seventh such incident in the region’s history. He highlighted the historical significance of Kashmir in promoting Buddhism and Hinduism, as well as the destruction of these traditions by various invaders throughout history.
He commended the resilience and fighting spirit of the Kashmiri Pandits, acknowledging their ability to make a name for their community wherever they go. Dr. Karan Singh also stressed the need to explore and properly document the rich history of Kashmir, including the contributions of Hindu rulers, poets, architects, and philosophers.
Regarding the history of Dogra rulers in Kashmir, Dr. Karan Singh noted that their contributions, which extended India’s boundaries, have been underrepresented in historical accounts. He pointed out that infrastructure like Boulevard Road and famous roads and hospitals in Kashmir were built under their rule.
Sopory, the author of the book on ancient temples in Kashmir, emphasized the need to share the constructive discussions that Kashmir hosted over the past 2,000 years on topics such as Buddhism, Sanskrit, science, and medicine. She encouraged the preservation of the region’s historical and cultural heritage.
Dr. Karan Singh also mentioned the Dharma Trust, run by his family, which has been dedicated to maintaining the functioning of ancient temples in Kashmir. He pointed out that several temples, including Shankaracharya or Jyeshteshwara temple, Kheer Bhawani, and the Parvati (Sharika) temple, continue to function properly in the region.
The event highlighted the rich historical and cultural heritage of Kashmir and the challenges faced by the Kashmiri Pandit community in returning to their homeland. It emphasized the importance of preserving and documenting this heritage for future generations.