Blogs from Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, Asia

I'm going to start by saying that I take no side in the Kashmir Conflict. I don't know enough about the conflict and as always, a day is not enough time. Solidarity Day is observed by Kashmiri nationalists in Pakistan, and sees civil unrest in Indian Kashmir. The observance focuses on the unity of Kasmir, and is marked by the public processions, special prayers in mosques for the 'liberation'* of Kashmir and protests against India. Some years a human chain is formed along the major roads leading from Pakistan to Kashmir and Jammu. Kashmiri cultural events and festivities are also held. I focused on Kashmiri culture, an almagation of Muslim, Hindu, Sikh and Buddhist philosophies across five regions; Jammu and Kashmir of India, Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltisan of Pakistan and Aksai Chin of China. Kashmiri culture ... read more

Hi everyone, Hope all of you’re doing well. This time, it’s just a short update and some pictures. I’ve managed to catch a flue and currently am spending my time in bed in Muzaffarabad - feeling miserable and bored out of my mind… I hate being sick! :-) Few days ago I came “back to civilization” after spending 10 days up in the valley. In a small town called Kel, which is in about 2200m above sea level (we’ve got our second office up there because our work is done in surrounding villages). And where time seems to have stopped a while ago… It is a beautiful place with its snow capped mountain peaks, the river, stone houses, beautiful pure nature… But in the same time it is harsh living up there... The fields are still ... read more