Kashmiri Literature Optional Subject – UPSC

The UPSC Civil Services Examination offers Kashmiri Literature as a unique optional subject. This choice delves into the rich literary heritage of Kashmir, encompassing its development, genres, and major figures. The exam itself requires fluency in Kashmiri and focuses on analyzing poems, dramas, and prose works. Opting for Kashmiri Literature can be a strategic choice for aspirants with a strong foundation in the language, offering the potential for high marks due to the fewer candidates who choose this subject.

Kashmiri Paper 1

Section – A

1. Genealogical relationship of the Kashmiri language: various theories.
2. Areas of occurence and dialects (geographical/social)
3. Phonology and grammar:
   i. Vowel and consonant system;
   ii. Nouns and pronouns with various case inflections;
   iii. Verbs: various types and tenses.
4. Syntactic structure:
   i. Simple, active and declarative statements;
   ii. Coordination;
   iii. Relativisation

Section – B

1. Kashmiri literature in the 14th century (Socio-cultural and intellectual background with special reference to Lal Dyad and Sheikhul Alam).
2. Nineteenth-century Kashmiri literature (development of various genres: Vatsun; ghazal and
   mathnavi.
3. Kashmiri literature in the first half of the twentieth century (with special reference to Mahjoor and Azad; various literary influences).
4. Modern Kashmiri literature (with special reference to the development of the short story, drama, novel and nazm)

Kashmiri Paper 2

Section – A

1. Intensive study of Kashmiri poetry up to the nineteenth century :
   (i) Lal Dyad,
   (ii) Sheikhul Aalam
   (iii) Habba Khatoon
2. Kashmiri poetry : 19th Century
   (i) Mahmood Gami (Vatsans)
   (ii) Maqbool shah (Gulrez)
   (iii) Rasool Mir (Ghazals)
   (iv) Abdul Ahad Nadim (N’at)
   (v) Krishanjoo Razdan (Shiv Lagun)
   (vi) Sufi Poets (Test in Sanglaab, published by the Deptt. of Kashmiri, University of Kashmir)
3. Twentieth Century Kashmiri poetry (text in Azich Kashir Shairi, published by the Deptt. of Kashmiri, University of Kashmir).
4. Literary criticism and research work: development and various trends.

Section – B

1. An analytical study of the short story in Kashmiri.
   (i) Afsana Majmu’a, published by the Deptt. of Kashmiri, University of Kashmir.
   (ii) Kashur Afsana Az, published by the Sahitya Akademi.
   (iii) Hamasar Kashur Afsana, published by the Sahitya Akademi.
   The following short story writers only : Akhtar Mohi-ud Din, Kamil, Hari Krishan Kaul, Hraday Kaul Bharti, Bansi Nirdosh, Gulshan Majid.
2. Novel in Kashmiri :
   (i) Mujrim by G. N. Gowhar
   (ii) Marun—Ivan Ilyichun, (Kashmiri version of Tolstoy’s) The Death of Ivan Ilyich (published by
   Kashmiri Deptt.)
3. Drama in Kashmiri :
   (i) Natuk Kariv Band by Hari Krishan Kaul
   (ii) Qk Angy Natuk, ed. Motilal Keemu, published by the Sahitya Akademi.
   (iii) Razi Oedipus, tr. Naji Munawar, published by the Sahitya Akademi.
4. Kashmiri Folk Literature :
   (i) Kashur Luki Theatre by Mohammad Subhan Bhagat,published by the Deptt. of Kashmiri,
   University of Kashmir.
   (ii) Kashiry Luki Beeth (all volumes) published by the J&K Cultural Akademy.

FAQs on Kashmiri Literature Optional Subject

1. Is Kashmiri Literature a difficult subject for the UPSC Mains?

The difficulty level depends on your existing knowledge of Kashmiri language and literature. If you are familiar with the language and have an interest in literature, it can be a rewarding choice. However, if you are starting from scratch, it will require significant effort to master the subject in time for the exam.

2. What are the advantages of choosing Kashmiri Literature as an option?

• Relatively less competition compared to popular optional subjects.
• Rich cultural and historical significance, offering a unique perspective in your UPSC profile.

3. What are the resources available for studying Kashmiri Literature for UPSC?

• NCERT textbooks on Kashmiri language and literature (if available in your region)
• Kashmiri Sahitya Akademi publications
• Research papers and articles by Kashmiri scholars
• Coaching institutes that offer specialized courses (availability might be limited)

4. What is the syllabus for Kashmiri Literature optional?

The syllabus covers various aspects of Kashmiri literature, from ancient times to contemporary literature. It includes:

• History of Kashmiri language and literature
• Literary genres like poetry, prose, and drama
• Important literary movements and figures
• Socio-cultural context of Kashmiri literature

5. How to prepare for Kashmiri Literature optional?

• Develop a strong foundation in the Kashmiri language.
• Familiarize yourself with the syllabus and weightage of different topics.
• Follow a structured study plan and create a study schedule.
• Practice writing answers in the UPSC format.

In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901. 

For UPSC Prelims Resources, Click here

For Daily Updates and Study Material:

Join our Telegram Channel – Edukemy for IAS

• 1. Learn through Videos – here
• 2. Be Exam Ready by Practicing Daily MCQs – here
• 3. Daily Newsletter – Get all your Current Affairs Covered – here
• 4. Mains Answer Writing Practice – here

Visit our YouTube Channel – here