Music Heals Wounds: Stia, Emerging American Music Star and

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Music Heals Wounds : Stia, Emerging American Music Star and Lyricist
Stia from United States of America ,California is a young and emerging music singer and song writer.  She is weaving fine vibes through her journey of excellence.
In an exclusive interview with news Kashmir she talks to Rameez Makhdoomi.
A bit about your childhood days?
I had a wonderful upbringing in Burbank, California. Music has been a significant part of my life since I was very young. I’ve always had a passion for singing and have been actively involved in show choirs, which allowed me to explore my vocal talents and stage presence. In fact, I began writing songs when I was just 13 years old, and that’s when I realized that music was not just a hobby but something I was truly passionate about. These early experiences in Burbank helped shape my love for music and set me on the path to where I am today.
A bit about your academic journey?
I recently completed my college education with a Bachelors Degree in Theater. My academic journey was a valuable experience that allowed me to explore the world of performing arts from a different angle. Studying theater gave me a deeper understanding of the art of storytelling and how it intertwines with music. This educational background has had a profound influence on my musical journey and my performances on stage.
A glimpse into your musical journey?
I’ve been on my musical journey professionally for about four years now. During this time, I’ve had the opportunity to grow as an artist and express myself through my music. This year, I’m particularly excited about the two singles I’ve released, “Soho House” and “I’ll Be There.” These songs are a reflection of my personal and artistic growth, and I can’t wait to see how they resonate with my audience. Last year, I performed my music at the halftime show at Crypto.com with over 6,000 fans in attendance.
Your role models in music?
Music has always been a diverse and eclectic part of my life, and I draw inspiration from a wide range of artists. Some of my biggest role models in music include Beyonce, The Weeknd, Tina Turner, and Janet Jackson, just to name a few. However, I firmly believe that inspiration can be found in any genre, and I’m open to exploring and incorporating different musical influences into my work.
You sing more romantic, is it your favorite genre?
Yes, I have a deep affection for R&B and Pop music, and these genres have played a significant role in shaping my style. As my career progresses, I’m eager to explore and experiment with different genres. I’m particularly interested in working with rap, reggaeton, and Latin music, as I have a cultural connection to Latin music due to my Mexican heritage. I believe that versatility is key to artistic growth.
What are your goals in your music career?
My ultimate goal in my music career is to become one of the biggest artists in the world and to share my music with a global audience. I aspire to create music that resonates with people from all walks of life and connects with their emotions. I want my music to inspire and touch the hearts of listeners worldwide.
Your hobbies?
When I’m not fully immersed in my music, I enjoy a variety of hobbies that help me recharge and stay creative. I’m an avid runner and find it to be a great way to clear my mind. I also have a passion for writing creative stories, which is a different form of self-expression for me. Photography is another hobby that allows me to capture moments and emotions. Additionally, I love hiking and immersing myself in nature. Lately, I’ve taken up cooking traditional Indian recipes like Butter Chicken, Tandoori, and Karaikudi Curry. I find cooking to be both a relaxing and delicious way to unwind.
What role do you see for music in our lives?
Music is a universal language that transcends cultural and personal boundaries. It has the power to evoke emotions, heal wounds, and bring people together. Given my unique personal story and life experiences, I believe my music has the potential to connect with people on a deep and meaningful level. I aim to offer a refreshing perspective in the music industry and provide an everyday soundtrack for people’s lives. Music is not just a form of entertainment; it’s a source of comfort, inspiration, and a way to relate to one another.
Your message?
My message to everyone is to be unapologetically yourself at all times. Embrace your uniqueness and express it with confidence. Life is too short to conform to someone else’s expectations or standards. Whether through my music or in life, I want to inspire others to be authentic and true to themselves. It’s in our individuality that we find our truest strength and beauty. So, my message is simple but powerful: be yourself, always! 🙂

Respecting elders, cover story 6 November 2023

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Respecting Elders

News Kashmir Analysis
Elders are integral part of every society. Respecting elders should be cornerstone of every society. Unfortunately enough, in Kashmir valley with passing time the respect for elders has been dwindling as a result the society is facing multiple issues.  The need of the hour is to enforce the respect of elders .
The Valley of Kashmir is known for its rich ethos  cultural values and strong moral heritage since centuries. The respect towards elders especially parents has been the founding cornerstones of our moral values in Kashmir.  Thus taking care of parents in old age by children , like they took care of their children in young age is a logical outcome of these longstanding moral traditions.
However since sometime the idea of establishing multiple old age homes is creeping in Kashmir.
retirement home – sometimes called an old people’s home or old age home, although old people’s home can also refer to a nursing home – is a multi-residence housing facility intended for the elderly. Typically, each person or couple in the home has an apartment-style room or suite of rooms. This trend suggests we are towards a moral dilemma in our society.
Expert pulse has been that
The respecting elders means you cannot ignore or cut their voices. Whenever they are speaking to someone or discussing anything, don’t interrupt.
They have rich heritage of experience. Maybe you are having more knowledge about that particular topic, but let them speak first and listen then put your points when they complete it.
The accumulated wealth of insight gained over the years makes the elders in our home and life a source of solace, tranquility, and stability. Our parents, grandparents, and other older relatives help us understand the evolution of ideas across time and bring greater depth and perspective to our thoughts.
and kids have almost surrendered on this issue. It has been found that settling abroad is usually one way traffic; you rarely return to attend your moral obligations and this trend is increasing.
On the otherhand the brain drain of youth in search of jobs is also hurting the society of Kashmir.
The voices of sanity on ground state  that if this phenomenon remains unchecked and more youngesters began to abandon their homes, the need for setting up old age homes may become a reality.
All this will also hurt the overall talent pool of the Kashmir valley .
The reality of hour demands we reinforce respect towards elders and move in right direction.

Love All and Hate None: Haji Syed Salman Chishty 

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Love All and Hate None: Haji Syed Salman Chishty

Haji Syed Salman Chishty is an eminent religious figure of India. Syed Salman Chishty hails from the Chishty Sufi family of Ajmer Sharif, the Gaddi-Nashin (hereditary custodians) of the 11th century Sufi shrine of famous  Sufi Saint  Hazrat Khawaja Moinuddin Hassan Chishty. His work involves the research of Sufi traditions and their interaction with global cultures and traditions.
He is Chairman Chishty Foundation, India. This charity  organization works for welfare of humanity.
In an exclusive interview with the News Kashmir he talks to Farzana Mumtaz and Rameez Makhdoomi.
A bit about the conference on minority held in SKICC by Indian Minorities Foundation?
The Conference organized by Indian Minorities Foundation and  was attended by all sections of society especially in large numbers by youth of Kashmir. The aim was to promote sufi teachings and spirituality. The sufi ethos has always taken concern of the concerns of ideas of common people. The event has been historic and quite effective.
How would you define Khawaja Gareeb  Nawaz teachings for us ?
Khawaja Gareeb  Nawaz the philosophical core and kernel of teachings lie in love and harmony for all and advised humans to follow the true path of God by following these holy traits-  be loving like Sun, philanthropic like river, refreshing like earth .
Is our younger generation straying away from sufi teachings?
This is the day and age of digitalisation and everything has become accessible easily. Knowledge is just a one click away. We need to bear in mind that we don’t just need to fulfil the worldly path but also our spirtual path. The sufi teachings provide an individual spirtual path to nourish  his or her soul and everyone has soul be it young or old so in need of sufi teachings .
What role does Chisty Foundation play in betterment of society ?
Chisty Foundation is working in entire India and more than 100 countries to work for humanity and bridge gulf and gaps.
The Chisty Foundation is following the multipronged strategy of raising awareness on social evils ,helping youth in skill development and women empowerment. We are also closely linked on grassroots to promoting the much needed communal harmony and also in this regard work on interfaith harmony.
Does sectarianism among Muslim hurt you ?
Yes this is a very sad aspect and we all need to rise above the sectarianism, at the Darbar of Khawaja Gareeb Nawaz we give message of humanity and urge all to rise above sectarianism.
The voices among Muslim community in India calling for self introspection are rising. Your take?
Self introspection should be done everytime.  It should not be done as many  voices are rising for its favour.
 Every human should do it. The self introspection is integral part of spirituality.Unfortunately , in present times we are going away from tolerance and gratitude which are cornerstones of quality life and self introspection.
How deep did you find impact of sufi teachings on Kashmir?
Kashmir is known world over for being the abode of Sufis. We attended the Urs of Dastgeer Sahib at Khanyar recently and were in  Joy to witness more than 50000 people with full emotions and heart praying to God and following Sufi Path. Sufism and Tawsuf are integral parts of Kashmir.
Your message to Youth of Kashmir?
My message to the youth of Kashmir is love all and hate none.

NEP 2020 a learner Centered Policy, cover story 30 october 2023

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NEP 2020  a learner Centered Policy
News Kashmir Analysis
Education is the cornerstone of civilization.
No society can progress without education.
In a bright development for education system of country,
The National Education Policy of India 2020 (NEP 2020), which was started by the Union Cabinet of India on 29 July 2020, outlines the vision of new education system of India.[1] The new policy replaces the previous National Policy on Education, 1986.[a] The policy is a comprehensive framework for elementary education to higher as well as vocational training in both rural and urban India.
It is heartening to note that The policy aims to transform India’s education system by 2030.
NEP also aims to make the education in India learner or student centered.
Globally it has been found that Learner-centered teaching encourages students to reflect on what they are learning and how they are learning it. It is teaching that encourages collaboration, acknowledging the classroom (be it virtual or real) as a community where everyone shares the learning agenda.
Some months back , in order to celebrate the successful completion of three years of National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Central University of Kashmir (CUK)  organised a press conference in Srinagar. The press conference was addressed by the Vice-Chancellor (VC) CUK Prof. A. Ravinder Nath.
Addressing the media, Prof. A. Ravinder Nath said, “NEP-2020 is basically focussing on catering to the learner interest and nurturing the learner abilities in developing economies, building societies and fostering leadership, which can convert the human potential into national empowerment”.
The programme was conducted as part of Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam, a nationwide celebration regarding the completion of NEP-2020.
Flanked by the Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Shahid Rasool, Convener NEP-2020 Implementation Committee, Prof. Syed Zahoor Geelani, and Deans of various schools of the varsity, Prof. Nath presented an overview of various steps and measures initiated by CUK and said that no stone is being left unturned to ensure proper and timely implementation of NEP in letter and spirit. He said that all efforts are being made to equip the students with skills relevant for the market and the opportunity for both vertical and horizontal mobility across the nation and abroad. CU Kashmir intends to offer holistic education through multidisciplinary approaches, while focusing on skill development, innovation and enterprise, he added.
NEP focuses on : To provide equitable access to quality education to all students irrespective of their socio-economic backgrounds, gender, or physical abilities.
One hopes that NEP 2020 is full implemented in Jammu and Kashmir,  and in heartening developments we are seeing academic authorities fully implementating the NEP 2020.
It is  a welcome development above all that NEP is a learner centered approach.

Electricity Concerns, Editorial 30 october 2023

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Electricity Concerns
Electricity is an essential part of modern life and important to the  economy. People use electricity for lighting, heating, cooling, and refrigeration and for operating appliances, computers, electronics, machinery, and public transportation systems.
Electricity is among the inventions that has transformed life of human towards betterment.
In the valley of Kashmir due to varied reasons the power or electricity availability is a problem especially in the harsh winters.  This hits life of people hard . From students to housekeepers all are hit by lack of electricity supply.
As the winter season is about to arrive , Kashmir finds itself amid an escalating power crisis.
As a matter of fact,
The Kashmir Power Development Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has issued a power curtailment schedule few time back  yet the Valley of Kashmir  continues to grapple with  prolonged power outages, significantly impacting the lives of its residents and businesses.
The need of the hour is that people also use the electricity in a judicious manner so that electricity supply improves. The authorities should also look to see the ways of improving electricity scenario.
One is hopeful that in coming times electricity would improve in Kashmir.

Why Anxiety causes Chest Pain?

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Why Anxiety causes Chest pain?

Farheen wani
Anxiety is a complicated psychological phenomenon that impacts millions of individuals worldwide. One of the familiar physical symptoms associated with anxiety is chest pain. In this retort, we will delve into the intricate connection between anxiety and chest pain, analyzing the various aspects that contribute to this incident.
Chest pain is characterized by discomfort or a feeling of pressure in the chest region. It can vary from mild to painful and is often alarming for individuals who undergo it. Anxiety-induced chest pain can manifest in different ways, such as a dull ache, sharp pain, or a sense of tightness in the chest area.
Understanding the physiological facets of anxiety can shed light on why it causes chest pain. Anxiety triggers the dismissal of stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, into the bloodstream. These hormones prepare the body for the “fight-or-flight” response, increasing heart rate, constricting blood vessels, and normally heightening vigilance.
The drastic surge of adrenaline can lead to several physical changes, including increased muscle tension. Muscles in the chest area may tighten as a defensive mechanism, as the body perceives a potential threat. This tension can contribute to the experience of chest pain among individuals with anxiety. Additionally, the heightened heart rate and blood flow can make sensations in the chest area more noticeable, further enriching the perception of pain.
Another factor that plays a role in anxiety-related chest pain is hyperventilation. During periods of anxiety, individuals tend to inhale and exhale rapidly and shallowly, often without even realizing it. This type of breathing, known as hyperventilation, can lead to an imbalance in carbon dioxide and oxygen levels in the body. This imbalance impacts the functioning of the heart and blood vessels, potentially resulting in chest discomfort.
Moreover, anxiety can cause exaggerated awareness of bodily sensations. Individuals with anxiety tend to be hyper-vigilant to physical cues, constantly scanning their bodies for any cues of danger. This heightened bodily awareness can intensify normal sensations, leading to an overinterpretation of normal bodily functions as chest pain.
It is also important to recognize the role of psychological factors in anxiety-related chest pain. Anxiety can be accompanied by catastrophic thinking, wherein individuals catastrophize and interpret physical sensations as signs of a life-threatening condition, such as a heart attack. This cognitive aspect can exacerbate the physical symptoms, making the chest pain feel more intense and terrifying.
Furthermore, the interplay between anxiety and existing medical conditions should be taken into account. Individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease or mitral valve prolapse, may experience chest pain that is both a result of anxiety and their underlying condition. In such cases, it is crucial to rule out any serious cardiac issues through medical evaluation.
To manage anxiety-induced chest pain, various strategies can be employed. First, addressing the underlying anxiety itself is crucial. This can be achieved through therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals identify and reframe anxiety-provoking thoughts and behaviors. Additionally, relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce muscle tension and promote overall calmness.
Engaging in regular physical exercise can also be beneficial in managing anxiety and alleviating chest pain. Exercise not only helps release endorphins, which enhance mood, but also aids in maintaining cardiovascular health. Furthermore, ensuring a balanced lifestyle with healthy eating habits, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques can have a significant impact on anxiety levels and subsequently reduce chest pain.
Anxiety-induced chest pain can be a distressing symptom experienced by many individuals. Understanding the physiological, psychological, and cognitive aspects of anxiety is key in comprehending why anxiety causes chest pain. By addressing anxiety through therapy, relaxation techniques, regular exercise, and a holistic approach to self-care, it is possible to manage anxiety-related chest pain effectively and enhance overall well-being.
The writer is a journalist and you can reach to her farheenwani47@gmail.com

Treat all buses as your own property: Showkat Ahmad, General Manager (Operations) JKRTC

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Treat all buses as your own property: Showkat Ahmad, General Manager (Operations) JKRTC
Showkat Ahmad is an administrative mind of parexcellence. He is General Manager (Operations) Srinagar of prestigious Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation.
In an exclusive interview with the News Kashmir, he talks to Farzana Mumtaz and Rameez Makhdoomi.
A bit about e bus journey of JKRTC?
Ministry of Heavy Industries  had stated this vision with erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir in the year 2018. 40 buses were alloted for Jammu and Kashmir, with 20 plying for  Jammu and 20 in Srinagar.
The buses were Commissioned in the year 2019 in the month of June , after tendering and subsequent  bagging of the contract by the Tata Motors.
When the vehicles first hit the road and Government provided  us with specific routes provided by Honorable chief secretary of that time. We were after sometime hit by maintainence issues. Tata motors were also new in this field of electric buses. The problems were compounded by harsh minus weather of Kashmir. With joint initiatives and research of Tata Motors and JKRTC solving the issues by apt research and thus as of today we in Kashmir have 17 plying buses and only 3 in  workshops. These 3 buses will hit the road soon. Tata research team was of great help .
What about the current position of routes ?
As far as the issue of routes are concerned, we have a bus plying to Budgam, Chadoora, Harwan, New Khanda. We also run periodically to areas like Hazratbal and Downtown from time to time as per the need . Although this is small fleet and can’t cater to whole Srinagar city,  but the next big thing in this mission we have on mind and for whose DIPR is done , we are hopeful that before coming Financial year starting in March we will get more buses that will cover entire city of Srinagar.
How do you see difficulty of evening transport in Srinagar during winters ?
The evening transport issue is directly monitored by the honorable Divisional Commissioner, and as per need we in evening give Soura, Harwan and chadoora buses. We run not just electric buses but diesel buses.
How much increase we would see in the bus fleet in coming times ?
We have given estimate of providing us at least 450 buses which would greatly augment our fleet and cover entire public transport realms outhere.
How has been feedback?
The occupancy of e buses is always full. There is sometimes criticism and we feel delighted with it and improve upon it. Overall the public feedback opinion is much positive and healthy for us.
Do you have cleaning team for buses ?
Yes we have all the teams in place for cleaning and maintaining the buses .
Any scope for seat quota for females?
We have specific number of seats in every bus for women. We also have been running specific women special buses on different routes .
Do we have modern fleet buses ?
We have all the buses – from  electric to diesel all the buses are  quite compact and modern. We are running comfortable deluxe buses within districts.
How far is JKRTC emerging from losses of several years ?
Yes it was an issue. From last march due to great and dynamic efforts of Managing Director and as  all the employees we are now not running in losses from more than one year.  The balance sheet speaks for it .
Your message to commuters ?
My message to commuters is treat all buses as your own property. Keep them neat and clean. If conductor is not giving tickets inform us. We are always open to your suggestions and solve your issues  as soon as possible .

Kusum Kaull Vyass takes over as Chairperson of IACC Gujarat

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Kusum Kaull Vyass takes over as Chairperson of IACC Gujarat
Ahmedabad: Noted entrepreneur Kusum Kaull Vyass has been appointed as Chairperson of the Gujarat Branch of the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC), the preeminent chamber committed to strengthening relations between India and the US. She was serving as the Co-Chairperson before her elevation and replaces outgoing chairman Kshitij Patel.
With a diverse background and a passion for nation-building, she brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role. She currently serves as Director of Ayurnet Healthcare and Trans-Sphere Technologies, Proprietor of Zest Worldwide Communications, and Managing Trustee of Utkarsh Healthcare Foundation India. She is also a past Chairperson of the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Businesswomen Committee.
Speaking about her elevation, Mrs Kaull Vyass said, “I am honoured and excited to lead the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce’s Gujarat Chapter and extend sincere gratitude to my colleagues for placing their faith in me. I look forward to building on the work done by my predecessors and working closely with all stakeholders to further strengthen the ties between India and the United States in trade and other fields.”
In addition to being a successful entrepreneur, Mrs Kaull Vyass is also closely associated with education. She is a visiting faculty in Communication and Skill development at various institutes like Hemchandracharya North Gujarat University, United Business College, Gujarat Vidyapith, KS Institute of Management Education, Gujarat University’s Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, and Chimanbhai Patel Institute of Journalism. She is also a Master Trainer for youth training programmes under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
She is the recipient of prestigious awards including the State Youth Award from the Gujarat government in 2006, the Sakhi Shakti Award as a women Achiever in 2007, the Friends of Gujarat Award in the US in 2020, and the IRA iCON Award in 2022.
In addition to her role at IACC, she is actively engaged with the CSR and other committees of the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry. She has served as President of Kashmiri Samaj in Gujarat and is a mentor for I-Hub Startups under the government of Gujarat. Her passions include nation-building, reading, writing, photography and serving the needy.

Harisa: A Culinary Bridge Between Kashmir and Persia

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  1. Harisa: A Culinary Bridge Between Kashmir and Persia

By Aubaid Akhoon  akhoon.aubaid@gmail.com

Kashmiri Harisa, a beloved winter delight, shares more than just its name with the famous South Iranian Harisa. This hearty dish, known for its thick pottage made of bruised wheat, meat, butter, cinnamon, and aromatic herbs, has a cultural and historical connection that transcends borders.

Culinary Connections
In South Iran, Harisa is still a celebrated mutton recipe today. It’s a culinary masterpiece where bruised wheat is meticulously boiled to the perfect consistency, and then enriched with meat, butter, cinnamon, and fragrant herbs. The artisans behind this dish are known as “Harisa-Paz” or “Harisa-Gar” in Persian-speaking regions.

The intriguing connection between Kashmiri Harisa and its South Iranian counterpart can be traced back to the historical and cultural exchanges facilitated by the Silk Road, which passed through Leh, connecting Persia with Kashmir. Persian-speaking traders, travelers, and rulers undoubtedly played a role in introducing this rich culinary tradition to the Kashmiri people, as they did with many other cultural and culinary customs.

A Glimpse into History
The first historical mention of Harisa can be found in Abu Muhammad Ibn Sayyar’s Arabic cookbook, Kitabul Tabik, Book of Cooking, dating back to the 10th century during the Alsafvid Caliphate of Islam. This dish, with variations in texture, ingredients, and taste, has found its place in the culinary traditions of the Middle East, South Asia, and other Muslim countries, often with slightly different names.

The Historical Roots of Harissa in Kashmir
The rich tapestry of Kashmiri cuisine is interwoven with the centuries-old tradition of savoring Harissa, a hearty winter breakfast dish that has stood the test of time. As the vibrant hues of autumn paint the landscapes of Kashmir, the allure of Harissa awakens, offering not just nourishment for the body but solace for the spirit.

Unlike the fiery pepper pastes of North Africa that share its name, Kashmiri Harissa is a distinct culinary gem, primarily savored in the heart of Srinagar. The city’s historical downtown areas come alive with scores of Harissa establishments, opening their doors around October and continuing to serve this winter delicacy until March. During the harsh winter months, Harissa assumes the role of an essential morning repast for the people of the valley.

The Origins of Harissa’s Journey
The journey of Harissa in Kashmir can be traced back to the 14th century, attributed to the influence of Mirza Hyder Duglat of Yarkand. However, some speculate that its roots extend even further to Central Asia, leaving an indelible mark on Kashmir’s customs, rituals, beliefs, and gastronomic culture. It wasn’t until the Afghan rule of Kashmir that Harissa took its present form and became an indispensable facet of Kashmiri cuisine.

The Artistry Behind Harissa
In the heart of Kashmir, Harissa is a dish that embodies tradition and craftsmanship. Traditionally prepared during the frigid winter, locally referred to as “chillai kalan,” it features mutton and rice flour, often accompanied by Kashmiri bread known as “girda.” The meticulous preparation process begins in the afternoon with the careful selection and chopping of the meat. Around 10 pm, the finely chopped lamb embarks on a slow-cooking journey in a colossal earthen pot.

Simultaneously, a porridge of rice, ideally made from short-grained Kashmiri rice, is meticulously crafted. The cooked rice gracefully melds with the meat, infused with a symphony of spices including fennel seeds, cinnamon, green and black cardamom, cloves, crisply fried Kashmiri shallots, and salt.

Around 1:00 am, the narrow-necked earthen pot is gently sealed, allowing the flavors to meld in harmony. The artisans behind Harissa then take a well-deserved break. As the clock strikes 4 :30 am, the skeletal remains of bones, stripped bare of their meat, are carefully removed. The mixture is either retained in a spacious earthen pot or transferred to a large copper vessel, where it undergoes relentless pounding until it transforms into a sumptuous paste. The climax of the process involves the lavish addition of smoking-hot mustard oil, meticulously kneaded into the blend with a lengthy wooden masher until the desired consistency is achieved. This gastronomic masterpiece is then portioned onto plates, garnished with seasoned mustard oil, and served with the indigenous bread, girda.

The Joyous Experience of Harissa
A serving of Harissa in Kashmir is not complete without a mutton kebab and “methi,” a finely minced amalgamation of a sheep’s entrails simmered in ghee and fenugreek. Those fortunate enough to secure their portion by 10 am at one of the ancient city establishments may even savor the golden-brown crust  “phuher,” “Harisa Phur in Kashmiri”  gently scraped from the pot’s base, a cherished delicacy among both the young and the old.

Embracing Tradition in Modern Times
While modern cafes in the vicinity have also embraced the allure of Harissa, seamlessly incorporating it into their menus, the authentic charm of partaking in this culinary delight amidst the cobbled streets of downtown Srinagar on a brisk winter morning remains unparalleled.

Bottom line:
Harissa in Kashmir transcends the realm of mere sustenance; it emerges as an indelible fragment of history and culture, instilling warmth and camaraderie in the hearts of the valley’s denizens. Its preparation stands as an art form, a labor of love passed down through generations. As the wintry chill envelops Kashmir, the redolent essence of Harissa drifts through the vibrant bazaars, serving as a poignant reminder of a time-honored tradition that has persevered through the ages.

About the Author:
Aubaid Ahmad Akhoon is a renowned Columnist & Motivational Speaker and an Associate Editor of the Weekly Publication ‘Education Quill.’ He currently serves as the Senior EDP Head at DD Target PMT Kashmir, a reputable institute renowned for its coaching classes in the medical/JEE/Foundation Classes

International Day for Eradication of Poverty, Editorial 16 october 2023

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International Day For Eradication of Poverty
Poverty is mother of misfortunes and crimes. Poverty is an ugly phenomenon stabbing the heart of humanity .
we know that poverty has many faces, it changes from place to place. For some poverty is hunger, lack of shelter, being sick or not having enough money, etc. Basically, poverty is a state or condition in which a person lacks financial resources and not able to fulfill basic needs.
Poverty-stricken people and families live without a home, clean water, healthy food, and medical attention. Therefore, International Day for the Eradication of Poverty highlights the problems faced by poverty-stricken people or families and works towards eradicating poverty globally in all its forms.
As a  matter of fact, The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty can be traced back to 17 October, 1987. Over a hundred thousand people gathered on that day at the Trocadero in Paris. In 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was signed at the Trocadero in Paris to honour the victims of extreme poverty, violence, and hunger. It was decided that poverty is a violation of human rights and affirmed the need to come together to ensure that these rights are respected. Since then, people come forward of all backgrounds and gathered on 17 October here to renew their commitment and show their solidarity with the poor.
On 22 December, 1992, a resolution 47/196 was adopted by the General Assembly and declared 17 October as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.
The 2020 Agenda for Sustainable Development was adopted in 2015 by the UN which is also known as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). It expands the scope worldwide to eradicate poverty, protecting the planet and ensuring that all people enjoy peace and prosperity.
We all need to take steps to eradicate the worst monster of poverty throughout the world.