UPSC Kashmiri Literature Optional Syllabus 2025, Paper 1 & 2 Syllabus

The UPSC Kashmiri Literature Optional Syllabus 2025 is one of the optional subjects for aspirants with a deep interest in Kashmiri language, culture, and literary tradition. It includes two descriptive papers, Paper 1 and Paper 2, each carrying 250 marks. The syllabus allows candidates to explore Kashmiri literature from its classical roots to its modern expression, including the evolution of the language, genres, and literary criticism. This subject is ideal for candidates fluent in Kashmiri and capable of interpreting literary texts within historical, cultural, and linguistic contexts.

UPSC Kashmiri Literature Optional Syllabus 2025 Overview

The UPSC Kashmiri Literature Optional Syllabus 2025 is designed to assess a candidate’s literary insight, linguistic understanding, and analytical skills. Paper 1 focuses on the origin, grammar, phonology, and historical development of the Kashmiri language, along with medieval and early modern literature. Paper 2 emphasizes modern Kashmiri poetry, prose, drama, and literary criticism. It introduces key writers like Lal Ded, Sheikh ul-Alam, Rasul Mir, G.N. Gowhar, and others, ensure candidates explore a rich variety of genres and styles.

UPSC Kashmiri Literature Optional Syllabus 2025 for Paper 1

UPSC Kashmiri Literature Optional Syllabus 2025 for Paper 1 is divided into two sections. Section A includes the genealogical roots of the Kashmiri language, phonetics, vowel-consonant systems, and syntactic structures. Candidates study linguistic aspects such as nouns, pronouns, verbs, and tense usage, and analyze sentence forms including declarative and relativized statements.

Section B covers Kashmiri literary development across centuries. From the 14th-century mystic poetry of Lal Ded and Sheikh ul-Alam, to 19th-century genres like Vatsun, Ghazal, and Mathnavi, and the 20th-century writings of Mahjoor and Azad, the syllabus offers a complete survey of historical literature. Candidates are expected to grasp the socio-cultural and intellectual contexts behind each literary movement and genre.

UPSC Kashmiri Literature Optional Syllabus 2025 for Paper 2

UPSC Kashmiri Literature Optional Syllabus 2025 for Paper 2 offers a critical study of selected Kashmiri texts and authors. Section A emphasizes classical poetry with in-depth readings of Lal Ded, Sheikh ul-Alam, Habba Khatoon, Rasul Mir, and other notable poets. It also includes twentieth-century poets such as Dina Nath Nadim, and focuses on literary criticism and evolving research trends.

Section B introduces aspirants to prose and drama. This includes short story anthologies like Afsana Majmu’a, Kashur Afsana Az, and Hamasar Kashur Afsana, with authors such as Akhtar Mohi-ud-Din, Kamil, Hari Krishan Kaul, and Bansi Nirdosh. Novels like Mujrim by G.N. Gowhar and Marun (adaptation of Tolstoy’s Ivan Ilyich) are part of the prose section. For drama, plays like Natuk Kariv Band, Razi Oedipus, and others are included, along with folk literature such as Kashur Luki Theatre and Kashiry Luki Beeth.

UPSC Kashmiri Literature Optional Booklist

To effectively prepare for this optional subject, aspirants must refer to authentic literary and critical resources:

• “A History of Kashmiri Literature” by Shafi Shauq and Trilokinath Raina – foundational books detailing the development of Kashmiri literature.
• “Lal Vakh” by Jayalal Kaul – a vital resource for understanding Lal Ded’s poetic philosophy and style.
• “Sheikh-ul-Alam” by Ghulam Ahmad Mahjoor – key text exploring the contributions of the revered saint-poet.
• Anthologies edited by Kanhaiya Lal Talib and Dr. R.L. Shant – essential for insights into modern Kashmiri literary movements.
• University of Kashmir publications – recommended for poetry, short stories, and drama.
• Sahitya Akademi publications – valuable for literary criticism and preserved texts.

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