Kashmiri journalist Basharat Peer, author of the memoir Curfewed Night, discusses the Kashmir conflict with writer Pankaj Mishra (who also reviewed the book on the NYRB Blog). Basharat's readings from his book are vivid and moving, and provide a window into ordinary life during the two-decade old Kashmir conflict (1 hr, 18 min). Basharat also appeared on the Diane Rehm radio show where, during Q&A, he was attacked by Indian nationalists (via Amitav Kumar).
Curfewed Night is a brave and unforgettable piece of literary reporting that reveals the personal stories behind one of the most brutal conflicts in modern times. Since 1989, when the separatist movement exploded, around 70,000 people have been killed in the battle between India and Pakistan over Kashmir. Born and raised in the war-torn region, Basharat Peer brings this little-known part of the world to life in haunting, vivid detail. It is a tale of a man's love for his land, the pain of leaving home, and the joy of return—as well as a fierce and moving piece of reportage from an intrepid young journalist.
