Pakistani author documents Hindu temples in her country

Pakistani author Reema Abbasi will launch here July 23 her new book "Historic Temples in Pakistan - A Call to Conscience" documenting Hindu shrines, and pilgrimage sites in Pakistan through 400 photographs.

The book highlights unreported aspects of harmony, and will act as a window for the people of India, feels Abbasi who will launch the book at India International Centre.

As a researcher and author, Abbasi, along with the photographer Madiha Aijaz, took almost a year to traverse each province and their many crevices to explore antiquated sacred sites.

Abbasi's book chronicles various pilgrimage sites like Hinglaj, Katas Raj, Kalka cave temple, Panchmukhi Hanuman Mandir and Shivala Mandir located in different areas of Pakistan.

"The purpose of this book is multi-layered," Abbasi told IANS in an email interview.

"It seeks a journey towards pluralism, preservation of some of the most ancient places in history, tolerance and participation, empowerment of a community, which is facing a major onslaught of hardliner menace towards the north, and promote religious tourism and peace," she added.

Abbasi also feels the book will highlight aspects that often go unreported such as harmony among the people.

"I hope it will be a window to the people in India as we have showcased the fervour of festivals," she said.