DPS Srinagar student bags Emily Dickinson award

Srinagar, Nov 10: Muqadus Ishrat, a 15-year-old class 10th student of Delhi Public School (DPS) Srinagar, has garnered international acclaim for her debut poetry collection Zawal.

The collection, comprising 21 poems, was published in August by Book Leaf Publishing after Muqadus penned down her verses during the months of June and July. Muqadus recently received the 21st century Emily Dickinson Award for her outstanding work during an event held in Sweden.

Talking to Greater Kashmir, Muqadus, a resident of Zaina Kadal area in Downtown, shared her journey into the world of literature.

"I started writing when I was only 13 years old, and with time, my writings became more refined. I aimed to publish my poems in the form of a book," she said and expressed her joy for bagging award for her debut collection.

"I started this book when I got heartbreaks over heartbreaks and regrets. It had all come up in my head, and I discovered that I have the potential to write," she said.

The title of her book, "Zawal," holds significant meaning for Muqadus.

In Kashmiri, Zawal translates to downfall, but Muqadus believes that it doesn't necessarily mean the downfall of life. "Zawal is basically a symbol or light of source which comprises different things," she said.

According to her, Zawal symbolizes the challenges and setbacks in various aspects of life, such as business, relationships, and other situations where everything seems to be falling apart.

"To overcome Zawal, we have to be patient. One who has patience will always end up as a successful person."

Speaking about the recognition, she expressed her gratitude and highlighted the significance of persevering through difficult times.

"I am delighted with the recognition of my writings and the appreciation which I received from my school for it. It has been very encouraging for me," Muqadus said.