Summary of Lost in Terror (2016) | Nayeema Mehjoor

"Lost in Terror" by Nayeema Mehjoor

"Lost in Terror" is a memoir written by Nayeema Mehjoor, a Kashmiri woman who experienced the brutalities of conflict in Kashmir firsthand. The book recounts her personal experiences of living through the Kashmir conflict, which has been ongoing since 1947, and provides insight into the lives of those who have been affected by it.

Key Ideas/Theme

• The author's experience of growing up in a conflict zone and how it shaped her understanding of the world around her.

• The impact of the conflict on the lives of Kashmiris, including displacement, trauma, and loss.

• The role of women in conflict, including their experiences of violence and their efforts to rebuild their communities.

• The need for dialogue and reconciliation to address the root causes of the conflict and bring about lasting peace.

Chatpers/Sections

Part One: Childhood

The author reflects on her childhood in Kashmir and how the conflict shaped her understanding of the world around her.

Part Two: The Conflict Unfolds

The author describes how the conflict in Kashmir escalated, leading to violence and displacement.

Part Three: The Women of Kashmir

The author explores the experiences of women in conflict, including their roles in resistance and their efforts to rebuild their communities.

Part Four: Living with Trauma

The author discusses the long-term impact of the conflict on the lives of Kashmiris, including trauma and loss.

Part Five: Towards Reconciliation

The author highlights the importance of dialogue and reconciliation in resolving the conflict and bringing about lasting peace.

Key Points 

- The Kashmir conflict has had a profound impact on the lives of Kashmiris, including displacement, trauma, and loss.

- Women have played a significant role in the conflict, both as victims of violence and as agents of change.

- Dialogue and reconciliation are essential to addressing the root causes of the conflict and achieving lasting peace.

Nayeema Mehjoor Background & Qualifications

Nayeema Mehjoor is a Kashmiri journalist, writer, and human rights activist. She has written extensively on the Kashmir conflict and has been involved in efforts to promote peace and reconciliation in the region.

Comparison To Other Books 

"Lost in Terror" provides a unique perspective on the Kashmir conflict, as it is written from the point of view of a Kashmiri woman who has experienced the conflict firsthand. Other books on the subject tend to focus on the political and historical dimensions of the conflict.

Target Audience

The book is intended for anyone interested in learning about the human impact of the Kashmir conflict, particularly those interested in women's experiences in conflict zones.

Critical Response 

The book has been well-received by critics, who have praised its honesty and insight into the lived experiences of Kashmiris. It has also been praised for its focus on the role of women in conflict and the need for dialogue and reconciliation.

Publisher 

The book was published by Rupa Publications in 2016.

Recommendations

"The Collaborator" by Mirza Waheed

"Curfewed Night" by Basharat Peer

Takeaway

"Lost in Terror" provides a powerful and moving account of the human impact of the Kashmir conflict, highlighting the experiences of women and the need for dialogue and reconciliation to bring about lasting peace.