Bashir G. Ahmad is the owner of Samad’s Island Of Peace. An island of 32 Kanals with a 8-Kanal Lotus garden. He is also a renowned global peace figure known for his dynamic caliber in the world peace and conflict studies .In an exclusive interview with the ‘Kashmir Media Watch’ Bashir G. Ahmad talks to Rameez Makhdoomi & Kaiser A .Mir
Tell us a bit about Samad’s Island of Peace?
The original building was purchased over a hundred years ago by my Grandfather, Hajji Abdul Samad Gakhru changed to Kakroo for reasons not known) over a hundred years ago. The original family came from an area (now part of Pakistan) called Gakhar – Abad. It is considered as a heritage property as it is the only island of its size, approx 32 Kanals of land with one of the oldest and the largest Chinar trees in Kashmir Valley.’ with a girth of 45i and estimated to me 450 years old.
My grandfather was a good friend of Hari Singh and Dr. Iqbal. Dr. Iqbal came here in June 1922. We actually as i told you belong to Gakhru family of Gakhar-Aabad which is now in Pakistan. But if you go deep in history you will find that our forefathers are from Iran. This Island was bought by my grandfather and at that time people used to laugh because they could not see it worth.
This used to be a busy hotel during Second World War when the British and American officers came here for rest and recreation. I was a kid those days but I still remember that there was a dance floor here and military officers enjoying music etc.
How was the affect of turmoil during the 1989?
The hotel was closed for a period of ten years viz. from 1989-99. But thanks to almighty there was no big damage done to this hotel. Then we opened this hotel in 1999. But, unfortunately on 10th of May 1999 Kargil war started and it was again a setback for tourism industry here. Consequently, hotel was again closed till 2004. And from 2004 to 2010 there were many up`s and downs but 2011 and 2012 has been extremely good as compare to earlier time period.
How do you view Samad Island as a tourist spot?
I am really thankful to Almighty, Samad Island has emerged a famous destination for tourists across world. Besides we have participated in International Day of peace. I feel glad to share with you that for the first time in the history of Kashmir, we celebrated international Day of Peace last year here on this Island. With the grace of Almighty we will be celebrating it again in this year.
How is Samad Island different from the other hotels in Srinagar?
Well, Samad Island has got its uniqueness because of its location. As, you can feel it yourself that environment here is totally different from other hotels. Its free from noise, dust and other distractions, here a person gets peace in real sense. Besides, this place is not only a hotel but now a centre of a peace. As I told you earlier that we have already started celebrating International Peace Day, besides my aim is to establish a Peace Academy here and I am in touch with Islamic University of Awnatipora for this purpose.
How do you see the current political Scenario of Kashmir?
Well firstly with respect to all the leaders here I would like to state this is a leaderless society. Second thing is that I would like to say is that the people who are really going to make difference are strong Kashmir Civil society. It’s because now people have to lead themselves as the leaders have proven themselves a failure.
Besides political issue, Human Rights Issue, we also have environmental issue here. What is your take?
I am very glad that you raised this question because it is really important and relevant for Kashmir. Recently in a press conference, I raised this issue and told people there that we are facing a grave issue of construction of road to the Amaranth cave. If such a thing happens it would be an ultimate disaster for our environment. I have seen myself the trees being cut and uprooted in forests of Doodhpatri. This is a deliberate destruction done to our forests which were once famous as Green Gold. Not only forests but our water bodies especially Dal – Nigeen Lake are also dying.
How do you view the impacts of events of 9-11 attacks on the lives of Muslims in USA?
As a matter of fact, the impact of these attacks has been quiet unique on the overall social setup of the USA. The people of USA after these attacks have grown more conscious to know about the religion of Islam and its great teachings. Interestingly, the number of people embracing Islam has grown impressively.
Tell us about the Peace Day celebrations?
We (Peace in Kashmir) are among the few organizations of the world who celebrate the ‘World Peace Day’ in a grand fashion on September 21 every year and organize events with reference to this global event. Each year the island hosts a “peace workshop†for students from schools and colleges who discuss and debate the meaning of peace in the Kashmir Valley.
Have you framed any resolution with reference to the vexed Kashmir issue?
Yes I have written over the possible resolution to the vexed Kashmir problem. I believe restoring the broken treaties and snatched rights can be a major milestone in the final resolution of the Kashmir issue.
