Book excerpt: The story of Kashmir and Kashmiri Pandits is a story of love and loss, of hope and despair, of pride and pain. It is a story that spans from the ancient times to the present day, from the golden age of Hindu civilization to the dark era of Islamic invasion, from the peaceful coexistence of different religions to the violent conflict of ideologies, from the prosperous and happy life in the valley to the tragic and forced exodus from their homeland. It is a story that needs to be told and heard, to understand the past and shape the future. It is a story that celebrates the spirit and resilience of Kashmiri Pandits, who have not given up on their dreams and aspirations, and who have not forgotten their roots and identity.The book is a must-read for anyone who wants to learn more about this fascinating community that has a unique connection with India’s most disputed region.