Understanding the Complex Identity of Kashmiris

Kashmirian is a term used to describe the people of Kashmir, a region located in the northwestern part of the Indian subcontinent. The term can refer to anyone who is from or has ancestry from Kashmir, regardless of their ethnicity or religion.

There are several ethnic groups that make up the population of Kashmir, including the Kashmiri Pandits, who are Hindus and are believed to be the original inhabitants of the region; the Muslim Kashmiris, who are predominantly Shia and Sunni Muslims; and the Ladakhi people, who are Tibetan Buddhists and live in the eastern part of the region.

The term "Kashmirian" is often used interchangeably with "Kashmiri," but some people use it to refer specifically to the Kashmiri Pandits, while others use it to refer to all the people of Kashmir.

It's worth noting that the term "Kashmirian" can be a source of controversy, as some people in the region and beyond view it as a way to erase the religious and ethnic differences between the various groups that live there. Some argue that the term is too broad and does not accurately reflect the diversity of the population, while others see it as a way to promote unity and inclusivity.