Historiography and the Role of Muslim Historians in the Pir Panchal Region of Jammu and Kashmir

Abstract

This research paper examines the historiography of the essential historical region of Jammu and Kashmir, Pir Panchal, in depth, emphasising the historical achievements of Muslim historians and their scholarly and research contributions. The Pir Panchal region is distinguished by its unique geographical location, cultural diversity, and historical significance. Historically, the region has been a crossroads of various civilizations, empires, and cultures, which has given it a prominent place in the history of South Asia. However, in traditional historiography, the historical narrative of Kashmir has been given central importance, while the history of the Pir Panchal region has been neglected. The main objective of this study is to analyse the scholarly efforts of the Muslim historians of Pir Panchal, who have played a key role in preserving the region's historical traditions, cultural heritage, social structure, and political evolution. Through a critical review of primary documents, historical manuscripts, and secondary sources, this paper demonstrates that Muslim historians have given a coherent form to the history of Pir Panchal by adopting a systematic research method and analytical approach. At the same time, an attempt has been made to highlight the distinctive identity of the region in the light of the historical traditions of these historians. Furthermore, this paper sheds light on the scholarly role of the Muslim scholars of Pir Panchal in the broader context of South Asian history. It emphasises that their services are indispensable for understanding the region's past and preserving historical facts. This research highlights an important aspect of local historiography and opens the door to new debates on regional history, cultural studies, and the impact of Islamic civilization.