Unruffled Mind - Growing in a Conflict Zone-Kashmir - Ashraf Mehnaz

For her, war tanks become powerhouses of fun, and escaping bombings transforms into thrilling adventures. Enjoying the crescendo of crossfire, stray bullets or spent casings fascinated her.

"Unruffled Mind" is an evocative memoir chronicling the journey of Mehnaz, an ordinary child growing up amid the tumultuous conflict in the Kashmir Valley from 1987 to 1997. Born in Sopore, known as the Apple town of Kashmir, her narrative unfolds against the challenging backdrop of militancy at its height.

Each chapter of the book delves into her experiences, recounting events such as tear gas encounters, rescuing her father from the clutches of militants, conversations with troops, getting entangled in the crossfire and crossing rivers to escape attacks. Beyond the harrowing tales, each chapter unfolds a life lesson learned-lessons of patience, resilience, acceptance, forgiveness and adaptability.