The Rising Tide of Materialism in Kashmir, cover story 20 January 2025

The Rising Tide of Materialism in Kashmir: A Looming Concern
News Kashmir Analysis
Materialism, a philosophical ideology that prioritizes the pursuit of wealth and possessions, has become a pervasive force in modern society. In Kashmir, once renowned for its rich Sufi heritage and non-materialistic culture, the allure of materialism has taken hold, threatening to erode the region’s moral fabric.
Key philosophers and social scientists have long warned of the dangers of materialism, describing it as a vice that destroys social cohesion and fosters emptiness. Compulsive consumption, a hallmark of materialism, has become a pressing issue in Kashmir, where the relentless pursuit of wealth and status has led to a surge in vices such as drug addiction and suicide.
Alarming statistics reveal that Jammu and Kashmir has become a hub for drug-related issues, with huge number of people affected. The demon of suicide is also on the rise, with youth being disproportionately affected. The root cause of these issues lies in the unchecked growth of materialism, which has created a culture of greed and dissatisfaction.
Even our sacred professions like Education and health have become much materialism based.
As the people of Kashmir, it is imperative that we recognize the destructive nature of materialism and take collective action to mitigate its effects. We must rediscover the values of our rich cultural heritage and prioritize the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment over the accumulation of wealth and possessions.
We have also made our social gathering a talk of all materialistic things, and only those are given preference who have money. It is a matter of shame that we are neglecting our poor relatives and friends.
The expert pulse is that we have  the multiple disadvantages of materialism:
Materialism has far-reaching consequences that can negatively impact individuals and society as a whole. The relentless pursuit of wealth and possessions can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. Materialism also fosters a sense of emptiness and dissatisfaction, as individuals constantly crave more. Furthermore, it can damage relationships, erode empathy, and promote social comparison and competition. Ultimately, materialism can distract us from what truly brings fulfillment and happiness, leading to a shallow and unfulfilling existence.
The realities urge  for all voices of sanity  to come together and brainstorm solutions to end the urge of materialism. By doing so, we can save ourselves and our society from the devastating consequences of terrible phenomenon materialism.