rehbar

From Kashmir's valleys to MotoGP dreams: Meet India's youngest Mini GP rider

At just 13 years old, Rehbar Islam Baktoo from Srinagar has become India's youngest Mini GP rider, beginning his racing journey at six and riding a Honda CBR 150 by nine. Supported by his father, Imtiyaz Sultan, a former racer, Rehbar has competed in several national and international events and recently moved to Spain to train among the best. Despite injuries like a broken collarbone, his passion remains strong, and he dreams of representing India in MotoGP. Apr 30, 2025
Mahatta & Co.: Preserving Kashmir's Legacy Through the Lens for Over a Century

Inside Kashmir's oldest photo studio: Rare look at Mahatta & Co.'s 100-year legacy

Established in 1905 by Amarnath and Ram Chand Mehta, Mahatta & Co. has been a silent witness to Kashmir's history, preserving its people, landscapes, and traditions through photography. The studio introduced color photography to Srinagar in 1957 and became a hub for portraits, historic events, and notable figures. Despite challenges like Partition and modernization, Mahatta has adapted, transforming into a cultural space with an art gallery, a café, and a digital archive. As its legacy continues, Mahatta & Co. remains a timeless keeper of Kashmir's rich heritage, ensuring its stories endure for generations. Mar 17, 2025
The Art of Kashmiri Paper Mache by Mirza Altaf Beigh

This 50-year-old artisan is guardian of Kashmir's dying art of paper mache

In the quiet lanes of Bhagwanpora, Srinagar, 50-year-old Mirza Altaf Beigh dedicates his life to preserving the centuries-old art of Kashmiri paper mache. A proud torchbearer of his family's legacy, which dates back to the 14th century, Mirza crafts exquisite items like jewelry boxes, flower vases, and antique designs—all by hand, using self-made tools. Jan 19, 2025