Tune in to Kashmiri Folk music

Though mostly known for its scenic lakes and mountains, the Valley of Kashmir has an equally vibrant music scene, one that is entrenched deeply into its culture and daily life.

Singer Neerja Pandit during a performance

Recreating that magic of traditional Kashmiri Folk music will be singer Neerja Pandit and several other young performers at a special music performance titled, Bahaar-e-Kashmir, taking place this weekend at the Rangsharda Auditorium. "Kashmir has a rich traditional music culture, one that spans over hundreds of years, and features works of some of the most prolific Sufi saints of the region.

We will be singing some of these popular songs at the venue," says Pandit. Joining her will be several young artistes, who will be performing Kashmiri Folk music and dance styles including Rauff, a style of Kashmiri Folk dance and music sung only by women, and Chakri where artistes sit in a circle and sing local ballads.

"Both these styles of music are very popular and sung in groups, and offer a unique view of Kashmir Folk music," she adds. Pandit shares that most artistes who will be performing at the venue apart from her are not professional, but very talented.

And though, its difficult to recreate the same aura as that sung by traditional Kashmir artistes, she says, "They have worked really hard to make this performance as close to original traditional Kashmiri music as possible. Most of them are performing here because they love Kashmiri music and want to share it with others, especially the new generation."

Organised by the Mumbai-based, Kashmiri Pandit Association, the event will also include Ghazal performances and two Indian Classical dance performances along with the launch of Pandit's new album, Mokhthaar.