Preserve traditional music of Kashmir: Dr Farooq Abdullah

Srinagar, Nov 11: Former Chief Minister and president of National Conference Dr Farooq Abdullah today called for measures to preserve the traditional music of Kashmir.

“We need to take measures to preserve the traditional music of Kashmir. I hope that grand events like this would continue to foster peace, love, and unity in the region,” said Dr Farooq, who was chief guest, while addressing Kashmiri Sufi and Folk Music Festival-Shashrang Season 14 at Tagore Hall here.

On the occasion Advocate Abdul Rahim Rather, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Jammu and Kashmir expressed his admiration for the dedication of the artists and performers. He assured the attendees that issues facing the artistic community would be resolved.

The event was organised by the J&K Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages in collaboration with The Kashmir Music Club Srinagar.

The festival commenced with insightful Shashrang Conference titled “Traditions and Transformation.” The session brought together over 70 distinguished scholars, legendary musicians, artists, journalists, critics, and intellectuals. These experts engaged in comprehensive discussions on Kashmir's musical legacy, the evolution of its traditions, and pressing cultural issues.

On this occasion, a cover Kashmiri folk song Madanwaar, conceptualised, sung, and composed by Waheed Jeelani and his Shashrang Band, shot on beautiful locations of Kashmir, was also screened as a tribute to Kashmir’s musical legacy.

The inaugural address was delivered by Harvinder Kour, Secretary of the J&K Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages. In her address, she highlighted the academy's pivotal role in promoting cultural events and underscored the significance of festivals like Shashrang in preserving the region’s artistic heritage.

The event featured an array of spellbinding performances that captivated the audience. The program opened with a soulful rendition of Surnai and was followed by Wadan Sufiana Kalaam, masterfully presented by Ustaad Mohammad Yaqoob Shaikh and Shabir Ahmad Saznawaz. The audience was also treated to the melodious notes of Kashmiri folk music performed by Gulzar Ahmad Ganai and Manzoor Ahmad Shah. The traditional Roff by the Yemberzal Group added a rhythmic charm. A special choral presentation and a Kashmiri musical symphony enriched the lineup, culminating in the classic Shashrang performance featuring all participants.

The festival concluded with the much-awaited Shashrang Awards 2024, honoring icons of Kashmiri music. The prestigious awards were conferred upon Gulzar Ahmad Mir, Pt. Krishan Langoo, Jameela Khan, Assad-ul-Lah Shah, and Assad Anjum for their invaluable contributions to the musical landscape of Kashmir.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Waheed Jeelani, chairman of The Kashmir Music Club Srinagar, who appreciated the unwavering support of all participants, sponsors, and the enthusiastic audience