“The encyclopedia, not only documents a rich cultural heritage but also sets a foundation for future generations to understand and appreciate the intricate mosaic of Dard life”
Book Title: Cultural Encyclopedia of the Dard Tribe: Journey Through Gurez and Ladakh
Author: Dr. Suheel Rasool Mir
Language: English
Hardcover: 412 pages
ISBN-10: 936006999X
ISBN-13: 978-9360069995
Dimensions: 20.96 x 2.84 x 27.94 cm
Publisher: Wings International publication, Pune (Maharashtra) India.
Price: Price: 999 INR/$24.99
Aadil M Nanda*
Dr Suheel Rasool Mir’s extensive work, “Cultural Encyclopedia of the Dard Tribe: Journey Through Gurez and Ladakh,” embarks on a profound ethnographic expedition, uncovering the rich socio-cultural fabric of the Dard Tribe across the diverse landscapes of Gurez, Kargil, and Leh-Ladakh.
This seminal volume serves not only as a cultural revelation but also as a critical sociological and anthropological resource, aimed at preserving the heritage of one of the most enigmatic tribes in the Kashmir and Ladakh regions.
The encyclopedia is structured around pivotal questions that aim to dissect and document the intricate cultural history and the unique traditions of the Dard people.
Mir’s scholarly pursuit goes beyond mere documentation; it is an earnest effort to generate awareness about the tribe’s forgotten past and to revive the Dard legacy through a contemporary lens.
The book meticulously details the geographical and cultural contours of “Dardistan,” emphasizing the specific cultural and traditional variances among the Dards of Gurez, Kargil, and the Dha-Hanu Valley, while also drawing cultural parallels with the regions of Gilgit-Baltistan.
The author approaches the subject with a multifaceted methodology, utilizing local knowledge, storytelling, memory, ethnography, and participatory research appraisal techniques. This approach not only enriches the narrative with authenticity but also fosters a deeper connection between the community and its historical roots.
The encyclopedia captures the traditional and evolving aspects of Dard social life, from caste stratification and migration to the adaptation of new neighborhoods and changing food consumption patterns.
The cultural depth of the Dard tribe is explored through various dimensions. Linguistically, Mir unravels the socio-linguistic fabric of the tribe, clarifying ethnic terminologies such as Dard, Shina, Brokpa, and Broksat, and highlighting the linguistic diversity within the community.
Economically, the book delves into the agrarian structure of the tribe, detailing the major crops, the effects of seasonal changes on agricultural practices, and the implications of these factors on the traditional and contemporary Dard lifestyle.
Significantly, the encyclopedia does not shy away from addressing the structural and cultural challenges faced by Dardi women, portraying them as epitomes of resilience and pivotal to the socio-economic resilience of the community.
Mir’s narrative also celebrates iconic personalities within the Dard community, whose efforts in promoting Dardi culture, traditions, and language are documented with respect and admiration.
One of the most compelling aspects of the book is its focus on the communal and social structures of the Dards. The book provides an in-depth look at the traditional problem-solving methods and their modern adaptations, which reflect the tribe’s responses to contemporary challenges while staying rooted in their ancestral practices.
This section not only highlights the practical applications of Dard cultural practices but also their relevance in today’s social fabric.
Moreover, the encyclopedia discusses the impact of modern developments such as tourism and improved infrastructure on the traditional lifestyles of the Dard people. It critically analyzes the balance between embracing modernity and preserving cultural identity, a theme that resonates throughout the narrative as the Dard community navigates the complexities of contemporary societal integration.
In conclusion, Dr Suheel Rasool Mir’s “Cultural Encyclopedia of the Dard Tribe: Journey Through Gurez and Ladakh” is a landmark publication that stands as the first comprehensive academic resource on the Dard-Brokpa Tribe.
It is a must-read for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the anthropology, sociology, cultural studies, and social geography of indigenous communities. The encyclopedia, not only documents a rich cultural heritage but also sets a foundation for future generations to understand and appreciate the intricate mosaic of Dard life.
*The reviewer is a post-doctoral researcher in Geography and can be reached at: aadilgeoku@gmail.com
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