Theatrics of Grief and National Identity

This chapter critiques the performative aspects of modern warfare and collective mourning, emphasizing how public grief is manipulated to signify state allegiance rather than genuine lamentation. It explores the relationship between nationalism, leadership, and public inquiry, highlighting the dangers of suppressing dissent in favor of a homogenized narrative. Through the lens of Kashmir, the chapter illustrates how personal and political narratives intertwine, reshaping the socio-political landscape while raising critical questions about governance and accountability.