Srinagar, Sept. 3 -- On the right bank of the Jhelum, between the Nawakadal and Safakadal bridges, lies the Dhar colony, a neighbourhood that once carried the weight of power in Srinagar.

The Jhelum curves past the houses there, its waters heavy with centuries of memory. Traders once drifted down the river in boats, carrying shawls and saffron. The courtyards echoed with Persian verse, and the air was heavy with politics.

For the Dhar family, it was home.

The Dhars had come to Kashmir from Central India long before Birbal Dhar was born. They brought with them Persian learning, discipline in administration, and the art of survival.

Over generations, they rose steadily: Pandit Mahanand Dhar, who served as prime minister under Raja Sukh ...