Mohammad Shafi Ayaz’s book The Tale of My Town is an intricate tapestry that brings Anantnag to life through 52 engaging chapters. The book delves into the town’s multifaceted legacy, covering families, religious landmarks, cultural icons, and much more.
Anantnag, often referred to as the “Land of Springs,” is a prominent town in South Kashmir, situated approximately 53 kilometers southeast of Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. Nestled between the majestic Himalayas, the town serves as a gateway to famous tourist destinations like Pahalgam and Kokernag. Anantnag is geographically positioned at the confluence of three vital rivers—Lidder, Arapath, and Brengi—giving it immense ecological and cultural importance. Its rich agricultural land and saffron cultivation have historically made it a key economic hub of Kashmir.
The political history of Anantnag is both fascinating and complex. The town finds its roots in ancient texts and has been mentioned in Kalhana’s Rajatarangini, the historical chronicle of Kashmir, under its Sanskrit name “Anantnag.”
It flourished as a cultural and religious center during the rule of Hindu and Buddhist kings. Following the advent of Islam in the 14th century, Anantnag became a vital center for the spread of Sufism, hosting numerous shrines and mosques.
Despite its historical prominence, Anantnag’s role in the political discourse began to wane during the Mughal and later Dogra periods, as governance shifted to the centers of Srinagar and Jammu.
In the 20th century, Anantnag played a pivotal role during the political awakening of Kashmir. The town saw active participation in Sheikh Abdullah’s National Conference movement in the 1930s and later became a hub for political mobilization during the post-1947 period of uncertainty.
However, despite its contributions, Anantnag has often been marginalized in governance and policy-making discourses. Over time, the focus shifted to urbanized centers like Srinagar, sidelining towns like Anantnag in developmental narratives.
Even today, Anantnag grapples with the challenges of inadequate infrastructure, limited political representation, and an imbalance in resource allocation.
This absence from consistent governance discourse has hindered its full potential, leaving its rich cultural and historical legacy overshadowed by neglect.
In many ways, Anantnag stands as a testament to Kashmir’s layered history—a town that has witnessed the heights of cultural brilliance but also the shadows of administrative neglect. Its story is not just one of resilience but also a reflection of the need to re-center its significance in contemporary Kashmir’s political and cultural landscape.
Ayaz dedicates several chapters to prominent families of Anantnag, recounting their contributions to the town’s growth and identity. Through detailed narratives, he highlights their role in shaping the socio-cultural fabric of the region.
The book also sheds light on mosques and other religious institutions, with special attention to Jamia Masjid Anantnag, tracing its historical significance and central role in the spiritual and communal life of the town.
Ayaz explores shrines and religious personalities, narrating stories of saints and scholars who inspired generations with their teachings and devotion. He examines the town’s caste system and social structures, offering an insightful analysis of its evolution and how these dynamics influenced relationships and community life.
Ayaz celebrates Anantnag’s vibrant cultural heritage through chapters on art, theater, and music, including stage drama, folk traditions, and contributions of singers, calligraphers, and artists. He also explores local landmarks like springs, caves, parks, and well-known sites that define the town’s natural and architectural beauty.
Additionally, the author highlights the Peace Brigade, a unique initiative promoting harmony, and the efforts of individuals in fostering unity during turbulent times.
By weaving together these themes, The Tale of My Town serves as both a celebration and critique of Anantnag, combining historical depth with personal reflections, making it an invaluable resource for understanding the town’s cultural, spiritual, and historical essence.
The book is available at Kitab Ghar Lal Chowk Srinagar, Mohammad Shafi Ayaz, Iqbal Abad K.P. Road Anantnag, Vision Computes K.P. Road Anantnag, A.S Book Stall, Zahoor Complex Iqbal Market Anantnag and Almukhtar Publications, Nai-Basti Anantnag.