Kashmiri singer Ayan Sajad honored with 'Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar' award

Anantnag, Dec 26: Ayan Sajad, a young prodigy from Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir, has achieved a remarkable milestone by being awarded the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2024 for his outstanding contributions in the field of Art and Culture.

News agency KINS reported that the award, considered one of the highest honors for children in India, recognizes extraordinary accomplishments in innovation, social service, scholastic achievements, sports, bravery, and art.

Ayan’s journey in the field of art and culture has been nothing short of inspiring. Ayan  has already established himself as a beacon of creativity and dedication, captivating audiences with his exceptional talent. His work reflects not only his individual brilliance but also the vibrant cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir. Ayan’s commitment to his craft and his ability to bring stories and traditions to life through his art have earned him widespread recognition and admiration.

The award ceremony, held at New Delhi, was a proud moment for Ayan, his family and the people of Jammu and Kashmir. In the presence of distinguished dignitaries and fellow awardees, Ayan received the honor from the President of India, who praised the young achievers for their contribution to the nation’s progress.

Speaking to the media after receiving the award, Ayan expressed his gratitude and shared his vision for the future. "This award is a dream come true for me. It motivates me to work harder to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir through my art. I dedicate this recognition to my parents, mentors, and all those who believed in me and encouraged me to follow my passion. I hope my journey inspires other young artists to pursue their dreams and never give up," he said with pride.

Ayan also emphasized the role of art in bridging cultural divides and fostering unity. "Art is a universal language that connects hearts and minds. Through my work, I want to showcase the beauty and diversity of Jammu and Kashmir to the world and remind everyone of the importance of preserving our cultural identity," he added.

Ayan’s remarkable achievement has not only brought pride to his hometown of Anantnag but also highlighted the immense potential of young talents from Jammu and Kashmir. His journey stands as a testament to the power of dedication, perseverance and passion, serving as an inspiration for countless children across the region and the country.

This recognition also shines a light on the untapped talent in the region, urging authorities and organizations to invest more in nurturing young artists and providing them with platforms to showcase their skills.