Reading Heart Lamp Through a Kashmiri Lens

On International Day of Rural Women, Heart Lamp by Banu Mushtaq sheds light on the hidden struggles of women in traditional societies. Though set in Karnataka, its themes of gender injustice and societal pressure resonate strongly in Kashmir, urging reflection and change.

- Peerzada Mohsin Shafi

n October 15th each year, the International Day of Rural Women is celebrated globally, offering a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the unique challenges faced by women, particularly in rural communities.

This day serves as an ideal moment to deepen our understanding of their struggles and it feels especially fitting to explore these issues through the lens of Heart Lamp, Selected Stories by Banu Mushtaq.

After reading Heart Lamp, a powerful collection originally written in Kannada by Banu Mushtaq, a distinguished lady advocate and the recipient of the prestigious Best Booker Prize in 2025, I found myself profoundly moved by how the book resonates with the social realities of Kashmir.

Mushtaq's storytelling is not only masterful but also deeply relevant, offering an honest portrayal of the multifaceted hardships faced by women in society. The language, tone and perspective she employs transcend regional boundaries, making the narrative universally applicable.

Each chapter of Heart Lamp struck a personal chord, drawing stark parallels to the struggles women face here in Kashmir. The stories are more than literary works. They act as a mirror to our own societal issues, shedding light on the silent battles women fight every day.

On this International Day of Rural Women, it is the perfect time to immerse ourselves in Mushtaq's poignant storytelling. The book becomes not just a reflection of women's struggles but a powerful call for moral awakening. It urges us to confront the harsh realities of gender inequality and challenges us to rethink our attitudes and actions.

There is no better time than today to engage with this work and reflect on the urgent need for change in how we treat and empower women, particularly in rural and marginalized communities.