All reference to the historical, social and cultural aspects of Kashmir normally begins and ends with the Nilamat Purana and Pandit Kathana's Rajtarangini. Thanks to the concentrated effort of Dr. Sunita Dhar (Dean, Faculty of Music and Fine Arts, University of Delhi), another treatise has been added to the distinguished list of references. The book 'The Traditional Music of Kashmir-In Relation to Indian Classical Music' could not have come at a better time today, when a culturally rich state has been stripped of its glory by terrorism, the return of democracy is but a first step on the journey to normalcy. It is only when society prospers that culture can also develop. Hopefully, this book is a harbinger of the return of good times, when the lush valleys will once again resonate with the melody of pastoral tunes, when the bountiful earth shall thrum with dancing feet and the air shall vibrate with an energy only music can generate. Music knows no language, for it is an expression of the spirit and the soul. It transcends all barriers and brings people together. May the land of Kashmir be blessed again.
 
Prof. Sumati Mutatkar