Sadaf Wani’s City as Memory is a heartfelt exploration of Srinagar, where breathtaking beauty and deep-rooted pain exist side by side. Wani shares her personal experiences, creating a vivid picture of a city that is both fascinating and deeply scarred

Sadaf Wani’s City as Memory - A Short Biography Of Srinagar offers a deeply personal and insightful look into Srinagar, Kashmir - a city where breathtaking landscapes are often overshadowed by ongoing conflict. Wani blends personal stories with historical context to present a nuanced portrait of Srinagar, revealing how its natural beauty is entwined with its troubled past.

The book begins by delving into Srinagar’s rich historical backdrop. Founded in 250 BCE by the Buddhist king Ashoka, the city’s history is marked by conquest and foreign rule. Wani uses this historical context to set the stage for understanding Srinagar’s contemporary struggles. Her childhood memories from the mid-1990s, a period of waning insurgency and increasing militarisation, illustrate how historical forces have shaped the city. The beautiful gardens and serene lakes of Srinagar are persistently overshadowed by the heavy presence of military forces, which are a constant reminder of the city’s ongoing issues.

As Wani transitions to her teenage years in the early 2000s, the focus shifts to a time of intensified violence and civilian unrest. Her personal experiences during this period offer a close-up view of life in a conflict zone. The contrast between the picturesque Dal Lake and the harsh realities of military checkpoints becomes a powerful symbol of Srinagar’s contradictions. Wani’s descriptions of restricted access to public spaces and tourist sites shed light on the psychological and emotional impact of living under constant surveillance. This juxtaposition highlights the deep scars left by ongoing conflict on both the city and its people.

Wani’s writing seamlessly weaves personal memories with broader historical and political analysis. Her stories reveal how conflict influences both individual identities and public spaces, providing a thoughtful commentary on how political strife shapes a city’s character. The contrast between Srinagar’s scenic beauty and its troubled reality underscores the city’s profound contradictions. Through vivid descriptions and reflective insights, Wani captures a place that is both enchanting and beleaguered.

The cover of the book, illustrated by Zainab Tambawalla, truly brings Srinagar to life. It features a charming cityscape with a mosque, majestic mountains and a serene lake dotted with traditional boats. A delightful “Flower Man” in a shikara adds a touch of local character. The illustration’s gentle, watercolor-like style creates a warm, nostalgic feeling, while the subtle barbed wire design hints at the region’s complicated past. This artwork beautifully complements Wani’s story, offering a vivid, heartfelt glimpse into Srinagar's captivating blend of beauty and struggle.

City as Memory is more than a recounting of events; it’s a profound exploration of Srinagar’s complex character. Sadaf Wani’s portrayal offers readers a deeper understanding of how beauty and conflict coexist, shaping the lives of its inhabitants. This book is a significant addition to the literature on Kashmir, providing both personal and political perspectives on a city at the crossroads of history and identity. Adding  this book to your bookshelf is not just a literary choice but a way to appreciate the intricate relationship between place and memory. Wani’s work is a must-read for anyone interested in the interplay between historical conflict and personal experience. It offers a compelling narrative and valuable perspectives that will resonate long after the last page is turned.

Publisher - Aleph Book Company

(Rs 399)