The famous quote, “Gar firdaus, ruhe zamin ast, hamin asto, hamin asto, hamin asto,” which translates to “If there is a heaven on earth, it is here, it is here, it is here.” is often attributed to the Mughal Emperor Jahangir. Jahangir, whose full name was Nur-ud-din Muhammad Salim, ruled the Mughal Empire from 1605 to 1627, following the reign of his father, Akbar the Great.
If there is a heaven on earth, it is here, it is here, it is here
Mughal Emperor Jahangir
The story behind this iconic quote is rooted in the awe and admiration Jahangir felt when he first set his eyes on the unparalleled beauty of the Kashmir Valley. It’s said that when Jahangir arrived in Kashmir in the early 17th century, he was so captivated by the breathtaking landscape that he spontaneously uttered these words.
Jahangir’s admiration for Kashmir’s natural splendor is well-documented in his memoir, the “Tuzk-e-Jahangiri” or the “Jahangirnama.” In this memoir, he expressed his deep affection for the region and its picturesque beauty. His appreciation for Kashmir’s pristine lakes, lush gardens, and the grandeur of the Himalayas was vividly portrayed in his writings.
Over the centuries, this quote has become synonymous with the ethereal charm of Kashmir. It’s a testament to the enduring allure of this region and its ability to leave a profound impact on all those who have been fortunate enough to witness its beauty. Jahangir’s poetic proclamation has been etched into the annals of history, and it continues to be celebrated as a testament to Kashmir’s unique and heavenly splendor.
