History of Mediaeval Hindu India (being a History of India from 600 to 1200 A.D.) v1.c22.2

v1.c22.2

It is necessary to add a chapter on the history of the many states small and great which existed in the valleys of the Himalaya mountain and adjoining parallel ranges on the side of India. We have already given a detailed history of Kashmir, which was always a part of and an important kingdom in India. Being in the north of the Panjab it was entered by the Indo-Aryans in prehistoric times. Although not settled and cultivated by an Aryan population like the Panjab, the Brahmins and Kshatriyas who formed the upper layer were numerous enough to stamp the country as a part of India. The Brahmins of Kashmir again took a leading part in the development of the Aryan civilization in India itself. They also established a reputation for learning which has existed down to this day. For Kashmir Brahmins have always prospered in Kashmir as well as abroad in India both as learned Pandits and as great administrators. Hence Kashmir has always been treated as an important part of India. It is mentioned in the Mahābhārata list of Indian kingdoms as also in Varāhamihira's. Its history naturally forms a part of Indian history.