Essential Kashmir History by RL Bhat

Essential Kashmir History by RL Bhat is a comprehensive and informative book that offers an in-depth look at the history of Kashmir. The book delves into the history of the region from its earliest recorded accounts to modern times, with a particular focus on the Raajatarangini and Persian historiography.

One of the standout features of this book is its emphasis on providing a complete picture of Kashmir's history by collating both Sanskrit and Persian sources. The author acknowledges the flaws in the Persian accounts, which are often riddled with interpolations and errors, but he also recognizes their importance in shaping the modern understanding of Kashmir's history.

The book is well-structured and organized chronologically, with each chapter providing a detailed account of a specific period in Kashmir's history. The author's writing style is clear and concise, making the book easily accessible to readers of all levels of familiarity with Kashmir's history.

One of the book's main strengths is its use of primary sources, including the Raajatarangini, which is a chronicle written by Kalhana Pandit in the 12th century CE. The author also references secondary sources, such as the Persian histories of Badaayuunii and Firishta, which he has translated and supplemented with additional information to provide a more reliable account of Kashmir's history.

Overall, Essential Kashmir History is an excellent resource for anyone interested in the history of Kashmir. The author's careful attention to detail and his use of primary and secondary sources make this book a valuable contribution to the field of Kashmiri history. The book is highly recommended for scholars, historians, and general readers alike who seek a reliable, fully referenced account of what happened in Kashmir, as per her own historians.

Publisher - Gulshan Books