This is now widely accepted that the first short story in the Kashmiri Language was written by Som Nath Zutshi who, therefore, is the pioneer of the literary form in the language. Zutshi Sahab was virtuous and straightforward. I was many a time overwhelmed by the aura of his innocence, immaculate character, and pure conscience. These excellent stories of his comprise one of our invaluable contributions to our heritage, and is a unique gift to the world of Kashmiri literature. —Padma Shri Rehman Rahi, Gyan Peeth and Sahitya Akademi awardee

Zutshi Sahab has written his stories with great honesty. The character of the then compositions remains relevant even today. He has used natural language that has the fragrance of Kashmir. All these make the stories spontaneous, and give them a special place in Kashmiri literature. —Padma Shri Pran Kishore Kaul, Sahitya Akademi awardee

Som Nath Zutshi, 1923 – Eternity, Humble. Calm. Serene. A distant traveller in thoughts. A lovable person. His wings took him to where he belonged. To the verdant meadows and blue skies, the colourful valleys and vibrant rivers. To the people he loved and shared their pains and pleasures. A newfound joy gave birth to his dreams that took him to a world of his own. Of stories, plays, dramas and human values.

Shafi Shauq (Mohammad Shafi Lone/Shauq, b. 1950) is a poet, fiction writer, translator, and linguist. He has received several awards, including the Sahitya Akademi literary award and the State Award for Outstanding Contribution to Languages and Literature. Shauq has authored, edited, and translated over 100 books in Kashmiri, English, Urdu, and Hindi. He has represented Indian literature at various national and international forums in countries such as China, Germany (twice), the UK, Canada, and Brazil. Shauq completed his MA and PhD in English at the University of Kashmir and taught there for thirty-five years. Some of Shauq's most popular books include Yaad Aasmanan Hinz (Remembering the Skies), Keeshur Lugaat (Kashmiri Dictionary), Keeshryuk Grammar (Grammar of the Kashmiri Language), and The Best of Kashmiri Literature (15-volume series)