Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Jan 30: Thirteen-year-old Ishfaq Hamid, a resident of Kreeri in Baramulla district, today expressed his gratitude for receiving the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) for 2024.
Among the 19 exceptional children honoured during the award ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan on January 22, Ishfaq was recognised for his exceptional Rabab playing skills, showcasing his talent on various platforms over the past several years.
The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, conferred the award on Ishfaq and other recipients. Reflecting on the honour, Hamid said, “I feel honored that I talked to PM Narendra Modi and received the award from the President of the country, ” he said.
Ishfaq, mentored by his father, Abdul Hamid Bhat, a professional in the field of music, has dedicated himself to the art of Rabab playing. His commitment to the traditional music of Kashmir and proficiency in playing the matka have earned him recognition at a young age.
In the citation issued by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Ishfaq is hailed as a maestro of Rabab and Matka, recognised for his outstanding contributions in elevating Rabab playing and promoting the rare traditional art globally.
The award, bestowed upon children in the age group of 5-18 years, comprises a medal, certificate, and citation booklet, presented by the President of India. Ishfaq’s accomplishments extend beyond this recognition, he has previously been honored at the 13th Kashmir Festival, Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s 550th Prakash Parv, and was awarded the Bhai Mardana National Award 2020 by NGO Sarhad.
Recalling his journey, Ishfaq shared, “I first performed in 2020 in Pune, where I was awarded the Bhai Mardana National Award, and it is from there that my journey began.”
He has showcased his talent in various cities, including Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore, receiving congratulations from notable figures like LG Manoj Sinha and other dignitaries.
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