In opening, allow me to assert my pride in being a Kashmiri Pandit, a distinction I hold with utmost gratitude. Our rich tapestry of rituals, culture, cuisine, and traditions is a source of deep affection and admiration for me.
However, I find myself at odds with the treatment of individuals from other castes and backgrounds within our community. It prompts me to reflect: why do some Kashmiri Pandits harbor a sense of superiority towards non-Kashmiri individuals? It is imperative to note that there exists a narrative within our community calling for the global acknowledgment of our struggles and the dissemination of our cultural heritage. Yet, paradoxically, we often find ourselves closing ranks, unwilling to embrace those from different regions or countries.
Drawing from personal experience, I recount an instance where I was invited to a Herath (Maha-Shivratri) dinner by a fellow Kashmiri Pandit. However, when I expressed my intention to bring along a non-Kashmiri friend, the invitation was retracted due to discomfort. This incident left a lasting impression on my friend, who, despite their open-mindedness towards all creeds and cultures, now harbors reservations towards engaging with Kashmiris.
This raises pertinent questions about the image we project to the world and how we expect others to engage with our heritage. What is the point of our pride in being Kashmiri Pandits if we cannot extend trust and inclusivity to individuals who are both well-settled and eager to partake in our customs? It begs the question: why should we, as a community, feel discomfort in the presence of those who do not share our immediate background, especially when they exhibit no such unease?
Conversely, I've had the privilege of participating in various gatherings and cultural festivities hosted by different regional communities, where I was consistently met with genuine warmth and hospitality. Regardless of whether it was a Bengali, Marathi, or South-Indian affair, I never once felt like an outsider. This experience underscores a fundamental truth: the beauty of cultural exchange lies in its ability to transcend boundaries and foster a sense of belonging that transcends geographical or ethnic distinctions. It serves as a poignant reminder of the universality of human connection and the power of inclusivity in enriching our collective tapestry of experiences.
In essence, this introspection prompts us Kashmiri Pandits to consider the disconnect between our aspirations for global recognition and our reluctance to embrace diversity within our own circles. This perceived supremacy and ego held by some Kashmiris is not justified, but rather an illusion. It underscores the necessity for a more enlightened and inclusive approach, one that aligns with the values of openness, respect, and unity that define our cultural heritage.
"The authenticity of heritage is not measured by walls erected to exclude, but by bridges built to connect hearts and minds."
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