Marred by conflict and unstable geopolitics, life in the valley has been difficult, to say the least. As a child of parents who experienced these challenges first-hand, I’ve seen them long for an idyllic and tranquil Kashmir–much to the dismay of what we witness today on every news channel. But there’s something in the air there that’s still pure and persists to uphold the valley’s magic.
Poets have continually romanticised Kashmir in their writings, filmmakers have gone all out to produce the most visually stunning movies, and singers with the most soulful lyrics have wept gracefully through the medium of exquisite penmanship by lyricists. But Kashmir itself has birthed artists par excellence, and we must acknowledge the musical greats from the state and amplify their voices.
An independent music label Renzu Music represents various musicians from Kashmir, with a goal to create a bridge that brings people together through music. Boasting of a packed roster with many talented names, the four year-old label headed by Danish Renzu is carving a niche in this rather untapped realm with a focus on furnishing raw talent. Here’s a list spotlighting a few of the contemporary ones that I’ve loved listening to.
Zartasha Zainab
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In addition to writing, Zartasha Zainab’s singing career has always yearned to protect and promote Kashmir’s rich cultural legacy. Bringing a diverse range of Kashmiri artistry to a worldwide audience, her compositions boast a lot of poetic lyricism and traditional instrumentation. Her rendition of Jugni is a great hit amongst the masses and gives ample insight into her versatile skill set.
Duha Shah
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Be Fine, a single released by Duha Shah, was shot in the picturesque valley and features soulful vocals composed, written, and sung by the young artiste. The song chronicles a love story and the complexities that accompany it. The video is enveloped in this dark academia aesthetic of sorts–you’ll be transported to a serene universe from the window sill of your bedroom.
Sunayana Kachroo
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With titles like Dil Khanjar, Yumbarzaloo, and Ae Savere to her name, lyricist Sunayana Kachroo was initially an analyst working in the Big Apple but later pivoted to other creative pursuits. She also won the Best Lyricist Award for the song Ae Savere at the India International Film Festival of Boston and has worked on Tum Kehte Ho, sung and produced by Sunidhi Chauhan.
Hyder Iqbal Dar
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His Instagram bio propels him to the forefront as a multitasker– a multi-genre record producer, a composer, and a mixer. Jack of all trades, indeed! Often associated with the ‘backend’ business of music, these skills make a song what it is, and spotlighting the artists that enable the frontmen to do so is undoubtedly the need of the hour. Check out “Lost; Found,” the most recent album he’s worked on.
