A broken note

Kashmir is famous for its marvelous beauty, sweet music, and vast culture. For centuries people in the valley have been humming Kashmiri traditional songs, and lullabies, with great enthusiasm. In the past people used to hear music near lakes and rivers and under the chinar trees. The village people working in paddy fields sang Kashmiri songs. As time passed away, the modern Kashmiri people found it boring and were inclined towards western music. Unfortunately, Kashmiri music started diminishing with time. The youth in the valley chose Western music over our native music. Kashmiri music is beautiful but in this modern world, it is important to shape some things. The noise of western music had suppressed the music of Kashmir. Youngsters believed that it is boring as they were not aware of its significance. From a few years, we can clearly see Kashmiri songs reviving in the valley. The heart and soul of our culture were Kashmiri folk songs but as Bollywood songs made their entry into our markets, Kashmiris, particularly youngsters, developed a keen liking and interest in them. Today the new age singers are making Kashmiri songs with western pop music which is attracting the youth. It is also giving competition to the old singers. The old songs are designed in the latest version which is increasing the number of listeners. The new generation is attracted to Kashmiri songs but with pop music. Many Youngsters are coming forward in this field and setting up their own music houses. But there is a deep conflict between the old Kashmiri musicians and contemporary music. There are some old singers who think that the traditional music was the original version which must be not overshadowed by Kashmiri music with western pop music. On the other hand, the modern generation feels that the slight western music with Kashmiri lyrics does wonders. It increases the number of listeners. No doubt the traditional songs have been melodious in the olden times but times have changed now. The new generation is creative and is Kashmir remaking Kashmiri songs which will reach every nook and corner of the globe. Thanks to the new singers who are working hard to keep our culture alive.