And Quietly Flows The Jhelum

The proverbial crown often brings discomfort, especially when crafted by treacherous opportunists skilled in manipulating the head, causing the body to convulse. Kashmir, the crown of India, has suffered under the influence of such cunning individuals for too long, inflicting intense pain and anguish on many. Yet every struggle, like every joy, eventually comes to an end.

Electoral promises, being what they are, have been fleeting in the world's largest democracy. The general populace, the main stakeholders, have grown accustomed to this pattern. Meanwhile, the troublesome neighbor continues its familiar routine of inflicting minor but persistent injuries on its larger neighbor.

One day, however, the usual script changes, and a subtle shift begins to take place. Observant individuals notice the change, while others dismiss it as fleeting moments in a hot pan.

Then the truth emerges—bare and undeniable. Running a country is much like an iceberg, where only a small portion is visible while the majority operates beneath the surface. There are institutions and agencies working tirelessly behind the scenes, often unrecognized and unsung. It takes immense effort to manage a nation.

About the Author

Colonel Ajay K Raina, SM, is a retired Indian Army veteran and an accomplished military historian. He has authored 25 books, including a five-part series on the 1947-48 Conflict in Jammu & Kashmir. He is the founding Trustee of the Military History Research Foundation ®, which supports military historians and authors in bringing their well-researched work to the public. You can reach the author at ajaykrraina@gmail.com.