From Syncretism to Dilapidated Edifices

Architecture, said American architect Frank Gehry, should speak of its time and place but yearn for timelessness. It not only aids in illustrating myriad facets of time and history but also assists in discerning the trajectory of its pattern. It has perpetually demanded care and maintenance because art has to survive in order to demonstrate the past to the present.

- Salika Rashid

Rajeev Bhargava, a noted Indian political theorist, has aptly propounded that it “contributes to and enhances our collective self-understanding; it touches our identity, evokes strong feelings and is the source of pride”.

It seems true that it is like a kaleidoscope with which one can decipher numerous colours of history, whether custom, values or civilisation; hence, one can comprehend a world view with a single lens.

It echoes the stories of a particular time period and accentuates the experience of being human. It is in this context one can recall the artistic valley enveloped by natural peaks - Kashmir.

Kashmir is a treasure house not only for the prominent snow-capped mountain range, ‘margs’, flora, and fauna, but also for being home to a unique culture - the curated wazwan (Kashmiri feast) or the diaphanous pashminas, the rich heritage, and the vibrant architecture.

It has remained a “melting pot” for a multitude of traditions and cultures in the past. It is a testament to the blended traditions and beliefs of ancient Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam; thus, it has truly exhibited a specimen of tolerance and pluralism of a diverse society.

The amalgamation occurred due to the Silk Route, which connected Kashmir with Central Asia, as it brought with it its diverse aesthetics. This inclusivity has remained a key trait of Kashmir; it has been under various rules, which include Buddhist, Hindu, Turkish, Mughal, Afghan and Dogra rule.

Furthermore, the rulers of their respective periods maintained unprecedented influence over art and architecture.

The Buddhist rule which commenced in the 3rd century AD set its mark on the stone architecture in the form of monasteries, stupas, etc.