Folk Singer Noor Muhammad calls for promotion of Kashmiri language

Folk Singer Noor Muhammad Shah during talk with Excelsior in Srinagar on Saturday. -Excelsior/Shakeel
Folk Singer Noor Muhammad Shah during talk with Excelsior in Srinagar on Saturday. -Excelsior/Shakeel

Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, June 3: Famous Kashmiri folk singer, Noor Muhammad Shah, renowned for his traditional Rabab tones, today pitched for the promotion of the Kashmiri language through music.
In an exclusive conversation with Excelsior, Shah emphasized the importance of young artists working towards this goal, while underlining the urgent need to address the struggles faced by impoverished families in arranging marriages for their daughters.
“In the song ‘Kya Kare Koremol,’ we have presented a socio-economic contrast. Those who can afford lavish weddings must also consider the plight of the poor who cannot. We should extend our support to these individuals in every possible way, as it contributes to our betterment in the hereafter,” Shah stated.
Hailing from Wadipora in Handwara, Shah revealed that his inclination towards music since childhood eventually became his profession. “Initially, my passion for music led me down this path. However, it later became a compulsion as I witnessed my father growing older. Being the eldest son, I had to provide him with the necessary support,” he explained.
Regarding the promotion of the Kashmiri language, Shah affirmed that he has been actively working towards this objective and encouraged others to do the same, highlighting the impact of his previous works.
“Since the release of ‘Wafadar Mouj,’ I have witnessed a surge in people’s interest in the Kashmiri language. This has been our underlying motive, and we have achieved success in this regard. I urge others to follow suit,” Shah added.
Reflecting on his skills and artistry, Shah shared an intriguing anecdote about how he stumbled upon playing the Rabab, which has since become an integral part of his musical career.
“Playing the Rabab was an accident. One day, a member of our musical group who used to play the Rabab fell ill and couldn’t attend an event. At that moment, I requested the group leader to allow me to play it. Since then, the Rabab has remained with me,” he revealed.
Noor Muhammad Shah’s unwavering dedication to promoting the Kashmiri language through music has garnered widespread appreciation. With his exceptional skills and captivating artistry, he continues to enchant audiences with mesmerizing Rabab melodies.
“It is through music that people know me. Today, I earn my livelihood through this art, and people invite me to their weddings, where I sing and play the Rabab. My life has undoubtedly changed,” Shah concluded.