Shanti Swarup Ambardar brings to life, Proust-like, Kashmir and its sweet and tragic precipice of history. A must read for all those who never want to forget Kashmir and a must, must read for those who never should forget Kashmir.

Rahul Pandita, Author of the Best seller, “Our Moon Has Blood Clots”

With unimpeachable integrity and candor, Days of Destiny celebrates the full, fecund and crowded life of its author, detailing, the while, the contemporary ethos and a nostalgic retrospect, leading as it did through terror and violence, to the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits from Kashmir valley. The motif of the work is buried in an underlying sentiment – of joy turning into sadness and loss – which courses, blood-like, through the narrative and elevates it into realms of art ...These subtle touches make Days of Destiny a triumph.

Girdhari Lal Labru, Retired Head of Department of Humanities, Regional Engineering College, Srinagar, Kashmir

Days of Destiny is one of the best books on life in Kashmir that has been written in the last hundred years. Eloquent, honest and vivid, this panoramic memoir brightly illumines the momentous and poignant changes that came over Kashmir and India during Mr Ambardar’s life. This riveting chronicle of colorful characters and historical events is also one of education, friendship, tolerance, courage, optimism, and new beginnings. It is an absorbing read.
Subhash Kak, Regents Professor, Oklahoma State University, USA

Shanti Ambardar has written a vivid and valuable account of his long life, intertwined with the turbulence which has gripped Kashmir too many times down the decades. His compelling first-hand testimony of events in the valley in 1947, and 1990, is particularly gripping. It is a very personal story - and at times controversial - and helps to provide a human aspect to Kashmir’s modern history.

Dr Andrew Whitehead, London

Days of Destiny is a vast source of knowledge and inspiration for those who seek to understand Kashmir. Historical events and recent developments are woven skillfully into a family tapestry, and presented with objectivity, integrity, and sensitivity. This remarkable non-fictional book underscores the imperative of a new beginning rooted in education and in the Sufi and Shaiva heritage of the Kashmiris.

Susheela Bhan, Ashoka Fellow, and Director, Institute of Peace Research and Action, India

Part personal experience, part reportage and part history, this rich amalgam of childhood, youth and maturity, is a stirring saga of resolve and resilience, and of keeping dreams alive.
Devender Kaul, Retired Professor of English, Vishwa Bharati Women’s College, Srinagar, Kashmir