Srinagar: Young Kashmiri singer Rehaan Farooq has captured widespread attention with the release of his latest song, which seamlessly blends traditional Kashmiri music with contemporary styles. A Class VII student from Kilwara village in North Kashmir’s Tangmarg, Rehaan has quickly gained recognition, with his song receiving immense popularity on social media within hours of its release.
Originally composed by the renowned Rashid Jahangir, the song narrates the journey of a young boy who experiences a mystical encounter while playing cricket. The video, directed by RJ Umar Nisar, was filmed in Tral, South Kashmir, highlighting the region’s natural beauty and spiritual essence. The presence of veteran Bollywood actor Bashir Lone, known for his roles in Haider, Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Pathaan, The Family Man, and more, adds depth to the visual storytelling.
Rehaan, who comes from a modest background, expressed his joy over the overwhelming response, calling it a dream come true. His father, a laborer, shared that despite financial hardships, Rehaan has always aspired to achieve great heights in music. The young singer credited RJ Umar Nisar, the director of the song and founder of Mashq Records, for mentoring him and providing him with a platform to showcase his talent.
RJ Umar Nisar, known for his work in projects such as Bedard and Janaan, has been actively involved in promoting Kashmiri art and culture while fostering opportunities for young artists. He emphasized the importance of sustainable youth engagement in the region, stating that his objective is to support emerging talent while preserving Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage. Notably, one of the artists previously launched by Mashq Records was honored with the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar by President Droupadi Murmu and the Prime Minister of India, further reinforcing the label’s commitment to nurturing young talent.
The song’s production features contributions from several respected names in Kashmiri music. The lyrics are written by Munir Saria Bali, with composition by Rashid Jahangir Shab and music production by Arif Mir. The video’s cinematography was handled by Umer Nazir and Arif Zargar, with editing and grading by Arif Zargar, and aerial cinematography by Mubashir Gulzar. Other key members of the production team include production head Zubair Ahmad and casting by SG Casting Company.
The success of the song underscores the growing potential of Kashmiri youth in the music industry. With its themes of Sufism, sportsmanship, and personal growth, the project serves as a testament to the region’s artistic and cultural depth. The music video is now available on digital platforms, offering audiences a glimpse into the evolving landscape of Kashmiri music and storytelling.
