Hunderman, a quaint village near Kargil in India-controlled Kashmir, is steeped in history and resilience. With a legacy dating back 500 years, this village was once a bustling hub along the Silk Road trade route. However, its tranquility is overshadowed by the tumultuous past of the India-Pakistan wars, particularly the events of the 1971 war that abruptly divided the region along the Line of Control (LoC), transforming many residents into Indian citizens overnight.
One of the defining features of Hunderman today is the Unlock Hunderman–Museum of Memories, established in 2015 by brothers Baqir Ali and Mohammad Ilyas. Nestled within the dilapidated stone houses of the abandoned section of the village, this museum serves as a poignant repository of objects, letters, and remnants of lives disrupted by conflict. It stands as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the enduring impact of borders on communities.
As visitors navigate the narrow footpaths of Hunderman, they are greeted by Baqir, the museum’s caretaker, who shares the stories of families torn apart by war. The museum itself is a somber reflection of the past, with relics of battle strewn across wooden shelves and personal belongings left behind in haste. Yet, the true essence of the museum lies in the human stories it preserves, from letters exchanged across borders to photographs capturing moments of joy and sorrow.
Among the museum’s treasures are worn-out leather shoes, a bridal gown abandoned in haste, and a framed letter penned by Baqir’s maternal uncle, chronicling his longing for home. These artifacts serve as poignant reminders of the love and pain experienced by those separated by conflict. The museum is a living testament to the resilience of the villagers and their unwavering commitment to preserving their memories.
Outside the museum, Mohammad Ali, one of Hunderman’s oldest residents, reflects on the profound impact of the border shift on his life. He shares stories of neighbors divided by conflict and loved ones separated by boundaries. As he gazes across the LoC towards the distant rooftops of Brolmo in Pakistan, he reminisces about his mother’s longing for her homeland, a poignant reminder of the enduring connections that transcend borders.
Despite its isolation and the challenges faced by residents, including internet blackouts and sporadic conflicts, the Museum of Memories continues to draw visitors seeking to witness the resilience of the human spirit. Curated not by professionals but by the local residents themselves, the museum offers a unique and intimate glimpse into the lives of those affected by war and displacement.
In wandering through the alleys of Hunderman and exploring the Museum of Memories, one cannot help but feel a deep sense of empathy for the people who have called this village home. Their stories, etched in the artifacts and photographs preserved in the museum, serve as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of conflict and the power of memory to transcend boundaries.
