Kashmir nāmā by Karan Anshuman

"Kashmir nāmā" by Karan Anshuman - Doesn't meet expectations!

This book is published by Jaico publishing house in 2017 and has 384 pages. 

1947 Raja Hari Singh signs instrument of Accession. Present day NSG commander Vikram Rathore is sent to Pakistan on an covert mission. Javid, a Kashmiri goatherd makes a decision to save his son. Journalist Aditi Shenoy acquires an explosive secret employing less than decent means. 

What is Vikram's mission? What does Aditi acquire? What does Javid decide? Why was a particular painting bought? What is Kashmir Nama?

The story starts with interesting developments. Encounter with terrorists and Covert Mission into Pakistan are always enticing. But it does not last long. The story takes an inwards turn. Things are different than what they appear. Stories of Vikram, Aditi and Javid run in parallel until they converge independently. 

The stories are bound by the common thread of Kashmir and it being the bone of contention between India and Pakistan. Sometimes, one wonders if the powers really want to resolve the issue. This book addresses exactly this point. 

Author has taken artistic liberty to alter facts to suit the story and create possibilities.  Karan uses real life figures like Pt. Nehru, Jinnah and Mountbatten as characters to augment authenticity. 

Although the story is interesting, the characters don't seem to be profound. The secret document, this story is based on, doesn't really come to light. It appears as if the author has left it for a sequel. But in doing so, he gives an impression of incomplete story and inadequate end. 

Karan Anshuman is well known screen writer and film maker. So I was expecting to read a graphic novel. That it's not. Since this is his debut novel, one can expect a more refined product from him in future.

Why did I read this book? Interesting title.  

What did I like? Idea. 

What I didn't like? Execution. 

Read if you have spare time.