The History of Azad Kashmir: The Beginning of Azadi Apparel

Every brand has a starting point.

For Azadi, that beginning is rooted in history, identity, and memory, specifically in Pakistan and Azad Kashmir.

Before designs, fabrics, or collections, Azadi began with a question. How do you honour where you come from while expressing who you are today?

To answer that question, it is important to understand Azad Kashmir, its history, and the values that have shaped its identity.

The History of Azad Kashmir

Azad Kashmir, meaning Free Kashmir, came into existence in 1947 during the separation of the Indian subcontinent. While the wider Kashmir dispute remains unresolved, Azad Kashmir developed its own distinct identity that is closely connected to Pakistan.

Following the events of 1947, the western part of Kashmir came under Pakistan’s administration. From that point onward, Azad Kashmir began shaping a new collective identity that reflected its political reality, cultural roots, and religious values.

Today, Azad Kashmir is recognised as Pakistan-administered Kashmir, with its people sharing deep historical, social, and emotional ties to Pakistan.

Islam and Identity in Azad Kashmir

With an overwhelmingly Muslim population, Islam became a unifying foundation for Azad Kashmir’s identity. Religion played a central role in bringing together diverse regions, tribes, and communities under shared values and beliefs.

Because Pakistan was founded as a Muslim homeland, the people of Azad Kashmir naturally aligned with Pakistan through a shared Islamic identity. This connection helped strengthen unity and provided a sense of belonging during a time of political change and uncertainty.

Islam in Azad Kashmir is not only a belief system but a way of life. It influences culture, traditions, family values, and community bonds, all of which continue to shape Kashmiri identity today.

Azad Kashmir and Pakistan

The relationship between Azad Kashmir and Pakistan goes beyond governance. It is rooted in shared faith, shared history, and a shared understanding of identity.

For many Kashmiris in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, this connection represents stability, unity, and recognition. Over time, it helped distinguish Azad Kashmir from Indian-administered Kashmir and reinforced its place within Pakistan’s national and cultural framework.

Why This History Matters to Azadi

You may be wondering what all of this has to do with Azadi Apparel.

The answer is personal.

My family and I are from Azad Kashmir, and despite its deep history and cultural significance, the story of Pakistan-administered Kashmir is widely unknown outside the region. Too often, Kashmir is spoken about without its people, its faith, or its lived experiences being properly understood.

Azadi was created to help share this history through modern streetwear and storytelling. The aim is not to speak for Kashmir, but to honour where the brand comes from and allow its history to be seen, remembered, and respected on a global level.

From History to Expression

Azadi does not begin with clothing. It begins with identity.

By drawing inspiration from the history of Azad Kashmir, the brand seeks to bridge the past and the present. It reflects how heritage can live alongside modern expression, and how history can inspire creativity without being forgotten.

This blog is the first step in telling that story.