Kashmir's Deep Bond with Iran: Why it's Called 'Little Iran'

• Kashmiris show massive support for Iran with donations, reflecting a deep spiritual and cultural connection.
• The Valley is known as Iran-e-Sagheer (Little Iran) due to centuries of Persian influence on its culture, language, and arts.
• Persian Sufi saints, artisans, and scholars, notably Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani, shaped Kashmir's identity from the 14th century.
• Persian became the language of administration and culture, influencing Kashmiri poetry, architecture, and daily life.
• Iranian influences are still evident in Kashmiri proverbs, folk songs, cuisine, and world-famous handicrafts like carpet weaving and papier-mâché.