The Mystic and the Lyric – Four Women Poets from Kashmir

This collection features the influential works of four Kashmiri women poets—Lalded, Habba Khatun, Arnimal, and Rupa Bhavani—highlighting their contributions to the region's oral tradition and poetic heritage.

The Mystic and the Lyric – Four Women Poets from Kashmir offers a unique compilation of the works of four influential women poets from Kashmir: Lalded, Habba Khatun, Arnimal, and Rupa Bhavani. Each of these poets has made significant contributions to the literary landscape of Kashmir, deeply embedding themselves in the region's cultural and oral traditions. Their poetry not only reflects the experiences and emotions of their time but also resonates with the collective memory of the Kashmiri people.

Lalded's quatrains, known as vaakhs, are often the starting point for folk singers, establishing a connection between the past and present. Meanwhile, Arnimal and Habba Khatun express their personal struggles through ironic wedding songs, highlighting the complexities of love and familial relationships. Rupa Bhavani's meditative verses have transformed into revered chants at shrines, illustrating the enduring impact of her work on Kashmiri spirituality and culture.

Neerja Mattoo's translations make these remarkable poets accessible to a wider audience, shedding light on their revolutionary contributions to both mystic and lyrical traditions in Kashmiri poetry. By bringing their voices to the forefront, the collection not only honors their legacy but also invites new readers to engage with the rich oral heritage of Kashmir. Through this work, the poets receive the recognition they deserve, ensuring that their powerful words continue to inspire and resonate with future generations.