Safeguarding Kashmiri Cultural Values in the Digital Age: Handling Social Media.

 Dr Fazal Ul Haq Wani ✉

In this society of connected lives, social media has become an essential part. People use it to communicate with each other, voice their opinions and discuss important issues. 

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It is a place for debate, expression, and involvement on various topics. Nevertheless, social media use in Kashmir has turned into a double-edged sword with both positive and negative implications on the region’s young people and cultural identity.

Social media however offers potent tools to Kashmiri youth who can utilize it as means for raising their voices, fighting for their rights, or establishing links with like-minded people from around the world. It gives people an avenue to express what they think, tell them about their experiences and engage in societal movements.  In this regard, social media has demonstrated its power as a change agent not only in Kashmir alone but also beyond; ranging from drawing attention to political injustices or leading conversations on environmental conservation initiatives.

But some Kashmiri youngsters are misusing social media by using it negatively instead of using it positively such as creating awareness of crucial issues or supporting what is right and what is wrong. Being on social media sites such as Twitter makes me sad when I see people arguing and saying mean things to each other. Twitter was so annoying the other day. Some people were just having a bad conversation which I found impolite. This worsened the scene further with the girl and boy using language that showed lack of moderation and respect for society’s norms. Being witnesses to this kind of behavior even from doctors among others who are supposed to guide, accentuates the need for reevaluation and reform of our systems.

This made me wonder about how vicious people can really be to one another and I was in shock whether it is really happening in Kashmir or not. The whole incidence was a lesson on practicing accountability whenever interacting online because it reminds us what we should avoid in ensuring an environment that promotes Kashmiri society’s rich traditions and values, respect, tolerance, and empathy in digital spaces. It also shows why individuals need to critically analyze their actions considering they step over boundaries of ICTs space and use them for personal ends.

The main issue here is that modern Western values spread through social media are clashing with traditional Kashmiri beliefs called “Kashmiriyat.” Western culture, with its focus on personal freedom and expression, is diluting Kashmir’s unique identity, leading to unethical actions and a decline in morals. To maintain our individuality, we need to appreciate our cultural heritage and foster a sense of pride in our identity. This will help us resist negative influences and build a stronger and more inclusive online community. Overall, the crossroads of social media and cultural identity presents both challenges and chances for young people in Kashmir.

While social media offers platforms for amplifying voices and fostering societal transformation, it also poses risks to ethical conduct and cultural unity. To harness its benefits while preserving Kashmiri identity in the digital age, we should: Draw inspiration from the region’s vibrant cultural heritage, promote respect and tolerance online, empower individuals with digital skills to navigate the complexities of social media.

The author is a Medical Doctor (MBBS) based in Kashmir & can be reached at, wanifazal@gmail.com