Dearth of Melodious Voices

The enchanting call to five times daily prayers, known as the Azan, holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims worldwide. The melodious voices of the muezzins at the Masjid al Haram in Makkah and Medina have long been celebrated for their soul-stirring rendition of the Azan. However, there is a noticeable dearth of such melodious voices in Kashmiri mosques, leaving a void in the spiritual experience for many worshippers. The Azan is not merely a call to prayer; it is a symphony that resonates through the hearts of believers, inviting them to connect with the divine (Allah). The rich tradition of melodious Azan recitation has been a hallmark of Islamic heritage, fostering a deep sense of spirituality and unity among the Muslim community. Sheikh Ali Ahmad Mullah, Chief and legendary Muezzin of Masjid Al Haram Makkah has a melodious voice and Muezzins of world try to follow him in azan.

In contrast to the resonant voices echoing through the holy cities of Makkah and Medina, many Kashmiri mosques seem to have lost this melodic touch. The absence of muezzins with voices reminiscent of those at the Masjid al Haram is a concerning trend that risks diluting the emotional and spiritual impact of the call to prayer. The reasons behind this dearth are complex and multifaceted. Modern challenges, changing priorities, and perhaps a lack of emphasis on the artistic and spiritual dimensions of the Azan may be contributing factors. It is crucial for the Masjid communities and religious schools to recognize the significance of preserving this tradition, not just as a cultural practice but as a means to enhance the spiritual experience for worshippers. Efforts should be made to identify and encourage individuals with the potential to deliver the Azan with a melodic and heartfelt approach. Training programs, workshops, and community initiatives could be established to nurture and promote the art of Azan recitation on the pattern of melodious voice of Sheikh Ali Ahmad Mullah of Masjid Al Haram Makkah. By doing so, Kashmiri mosques can rekindle the spirit of the call to prayer, fostering a deeper connection between worshippers and their faith.

In conclusion, the dearth of melodious voices calling the Azan in Kashmiri mosques is a call for introspection and action. Preserving the rich tradition of soul-stirring Azan recitation is not just a cultural endeavor; it is a vital component of enhancing the spiritual experience for the Muslim prayers in Kashmir. Our Kashmir has thousands of mosques. By investing in the training and encouragement of talented muezzins, we can revive the melodious tradition and ensure that the call to prayer remains a harmonious symphony that resonates in the hearts of worshippers for generations to come. Main role is for all Principals/ Chairmen of established islamic religious schools of Kashmir who are working on the donations of people of Kashmir that they have to train vocals of students in the faculty of Muezzin as par with Harmain Shariefan. Updation of curriculum and separate faculty is required in these schools. Inviting experienced and technical   guest faculties from Darul Uloom Deoband, Nadwat ul Ulama Lucknow, University of Medina or Ummul–Qura University or legendary muezins from Harmain Shariefan will help to review azan calling in Kashmir.

By Dr Haamid Bashir

(Dr Haamid Bashir, PhD  is a researcher and author of “Al-Umrah Wal Ziyarah”, Published two research papers on Umrah pilgrimage in International Journals