Kashmir has been called by different names from the remote past "Sharda Peeth" or Seat of Learning; "Rishi Bhumi", or the land of Saints, sages and savants. Sir Thomas Moore a British scholar called it Lalla Rookh or the meadow of variegated flowers. Firdause a Persian scholar immortalized it by calling it” Paradise" because of its scenic beauty, flaura and fauna etc. Lalla Rookh (Kashmir) has made contribution to different Philosophical systems - Shaivism, Buddhism, Sufism and glorious Composite Culture as preached by Lalleshwari - 14th century mystic yogin and Nund Rishi.
Unfortunately, Lalla Rookh has been the victim of many marauders from time to time Zulj or Dulch, Mehra Kula, Pathan governors, Tribals and militants. A western scholar holds the view that the exaqusite beauty and charm of Kashmir, resembling that of a newly married bride or of Hellen of ancient Troy has made Kashmir a victim of the evil and wicked eyes of the marauders. Yet, strangely enough Lalla Rookh has survived because of its glorious Heritage and composite culture. |
