By Peer Mohammad Amir Qureshi
TALAASH-e-Kashmir is not just a book; it is a profound quest that compels readers to contemplate their own existence. Ulfat’s poignant verses possess the power to ignite introspective flames within, beckoning you to delve deeper into the enigmatic depths of your own being.
About Author:
Saira Ulfat, a native of the mesmerizing land of Kokernag in Kashmir, emerges as a brilliant luminary in the realm of literature with her debut masterpiece. While pursuing her Bachelor’s degree at the esteemed Government Degree College in kokernag, Ulfat unveils her prodigious talent to the world. Not only does she grace the columns of esteemed publications as a remarkable columnist, but she also weaves verses of enchantment as a celebrated poet, leaving an indelible mark on the vibrant literary landscape of Kashmir.
Book Summary:
Amidst the waning tides of book reading culture in the valley, a remarkable phenomenon is unfolding—a resplendent surge of new luminaries illuminating the literary realm. With an ardent determination to revive the fading embers of the literary flame, these budding talents emerge, showcasing their mettle and captivating the hearts and minds of avid readers in the valley. The book that delves deep into the realms of self-questioning and self-conceit. Saira Ulfat, an ardent disciple of the legendary Allama Iqbal, showcases a writing style reminiscent of the renowned poet, in this extraordinary collection. Published by Vyeth Publishing House, known for their discerning selection of literary treasures, Talaash-e-Kashmir boasts a concise yet thought-provoking 62 pages, with a price tag of rupees 200 that truly reflects its artistic value. With every turn of the page, you’ll witness the rich poetry, intertwining with the threads of your own introspective journey.Ulfat’s writing resonates with Iqbal’s essence, and her words intertwine masterfully, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of poetry. As you immerse yourself in this book, you’ll embark on a profound journey of introspection, guided by Ulfat’s eloquent pen.Talaash-e-Kashmir stands as a testament to Ulfat’s poetic prowess, as she captures the intricacies of human emotions with precision and grace. Her words transcend language barriers, resonating with readers from all walks of life.Within the tapestry of this remarkable book, a singular poem stands at a curious crossroad. The third poem, seemingly adrift from the overarching theme, raises an eyebrow as it questions its place amidst the profound exploration of self-confinement and existential ponderings that permeate the other verses. While the journey of introspection carries readers deeper into the labyrinth of self-questioning, this particular poem ventures into uncharted territory, challenging the established rhythm and rhyme scheme. It becomes evident that the author, despite exhibiting undeniable talent, still has much to learn and grow in their poetic craft.
In the ethereal verses of this enchanting book, there exist a few poetic gems that effortlessly seize the heart and transport it to realms unknown.
“Mere qalab se duniya’e mohabbat nikal de
Mere gunaho ko rehmat ka jalal de”
These lines, like an elixir for the soul, overflow with a profound longing for love to emanate from within, permeating the world. With tender grace, they beseech the Divine to bestow upon the poet the majestic benevolence that transforms their transgressions into a radiant tapestry of mercy.In the embrace of these words, the heart surrenders, captivated by her lyrical beauty and the profound emotions they evoke. They become an anthem of hope and redemption, resonating deeply within the reader’s being, forever etching themselves upon the chambers of the heart.
Amidst the poetic tapestry of this book, a verse arises that embodies a captivating contradiction:
“Kaafir bana hai ab tujhse hi behtar
Ab jahan ka woh hai, woh jahan ka gazi”
These words, with their enigmatic essence, present a thought-provoking duality. On one hand, they imply that the non-believer has surpassed others, becoming superior in a realm where the noble warrior, the “gazi,” traditionally resides. Such a sentiment challenges conventional notions and invites contemplation on the interplay of faith and valor.This verse, shrouded in paradox, piques the reader’s curiosity, sparking a profound exploration of conflicting perspectives. It serves as a catalyst for introspection, urging one to delve into the depths of the poet’s intention and uncover the hidden truths that lie beneath the surface. Ultimately, it is within the enigmatic embrace of these contradictory words that the reader discovers a profound invitation to question, reflect, and seek a deeper understanding of the intricate dynamics between belief, identity, and valor. As one delves further into the pages of this captivating book, a fascinating shift occurs. Beyond the realm of poetic verses, a new dimension emerges—an exploration of diverse topics, prose, and crucial societal discourses. These insightful passages unveil the author as an intellectual luminary, possessing a profound understanding of Islam and a keen awareness of the deteriorating state of our society. While the inclusion of prose and poetry within the same book signifies the author’s multifaceted talent, it does present a challenge in categorizing the work. The blending of these distinct forms of expression creates a conundrum as to whether it should be classified solely as poetry or encompass a broader category that encapsulates both poetry and prose.
However, this amalgamation of styles also highlights the versatility of the author, who fearlessly traverses various literary territories to shed light on pressing societal issues. The reader is compelled to grapple with the complexities of a world that yearns for change, urging introspection and inspiring action.
In essence, while the blending of poetry and prose within a single book poses a classification dilemma, it ultimately serves as a testament to the author’s intellectual prowess and their commitment to highlighting the urgent matters that plague our society. It is a work that defies conventional boundaries, inviting readers to engage with both poetic enchantment and thought-provoking prose as they embark on an illuminating journey of self-discovery and societal introspection
In my personal perception, I believe that the editing of the book could have been further enhanced to address certain aspects. The font size appears small, making it challenging to read, and the lack of clear distinction between the fonts creates a mingled effect that may impede readability. However, on a positive note, the book’s cover flap exhibits an intriguing design, adding an element of interest and allure. Additionally, the commendable paper quality enhances the overall reading experience, lending a touch of sophistication to the book.
Furthermore, the price of the book appears to be fair and reasonable, reflecting its value and accessibility to potential readers. Together, let us nurture the literary landscape, fostering an environment where authors are inspired to create, where readers are enriched by their words, and where the bond between writer and audience is strengthened through mutual understanding and growth.
Here’s to the success of this book and to the boundless potential that lies within the hearts and minds of authors and readers alike. May it be a stepping stone towards a future filled with literary wonders that continue to captivate and inspire generations to come.
The author is a columnist and is pursuing an msc in zoology from HNBGU Garwhal Uttrakhand. He can be mailed at [email protected]m
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