Secrets of the Kashmir Valley

Qazi skillfully connects us to the intense, complex and remarkably strong women of Kashmir. Their fascinating and emotionally touching stories are deeply moving and need to be heard." ROSS KAUFFMAN, Academy Award-winning film-maker, In this timely and important book, Farhana Qazi traces the lives of women in the deeply divided Kashmir Valley and shows how they have survived a 60-plus-year conflict. With unique access, Qazi is an American storyteller who travels extensively through the region to interview mothers of martyrs, militants’ wives, prisoners, protestors, and political activists. Her evocative reporting and extensive interactions brings to life these women’s stories-their individual oral histories make up a collective chronicle of suffering and struggle. Ultimately, this is a hopeful book. With strong voices and will power, the women of Kashmir are changing their society. These reformers are the people leading the way forward. This crucial book on Kashmir is a brilliant and thought-provoking work. Qazi’s unique perspective on Kashmir and deep passion for the women she writes about make this a definitive account of a proud people.