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Draft:Ishfaq Kawa

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Ishfaq Kawa
Ishfaq Kawa
Ishfaq Kawa
Background information
Birth nameIshfaq Ahmad Kawa
Born (1990-02-10) February 10, 1990 (age 34)
Shadipora, Bandipora, Jammu and Kashmir, India
GenresKashmiri Folk, Sufi, Pop
Occupation(s)Singer, Composer, Lyricist
Years active2015–present
LabelsKASH BEATZ, Kasheer Music, Vaakhs Music
WebsiteFacebook official page
Ishfaq Kawa
YouTube information
Channel
Genres
  • Kashmiri Music
  • Folk
  • Bollywood Covers
Subscribers633000[1]
Total views131 million+[1]
NetworkKash Beatz, Kasheer Music, Vaakhs Music
100,000 subscribers2021

Last updated: 18/08/2024

Ishfaq Ahmad Kawa (born 10 February 1990) is an Indian singer, composer, and lyricist from the Kashmir Valley, recognized for his significant contributions to the preservation and popularization of Kashmiri music[2] .Kawa's repertoire includes a wide range of genres, particularly Kashmiri folk, Sufi music, and contemporary pop. He has become a prominent figure in Kashmiri music, earning a devoted following both in the Kashmir Valley and among the global Kashmiri diaspora[3] .

Early life and background

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Ishfaq Kawa was born in Shadipora, Bandipora, in the Jammu and Kashmir region. Raised in a modest family, Kawa faced numerous challenges during his upbringing, including financial difficulties exacerbated by the region's political turmoil. Despite these hardships, his passion for music was evident from an early age. Kawa was inspired by the rich musical traditions of Kashmir, and this early exposure significantly influenced his artistic development.[4]

Career

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Kawa's musical journey began in earnest in 2015 when, while working as a waiter in Hyderabad, he sang spontaneously at an event and received a standing ovation. This pivotal moment encouraged him to return to Kashmir and pursue music full-time. He gained widespread recognition with his emotionally charged song "Nundi Bani," a tribute to mothers who have lost their children. The song became a viral hit, amassing millions of views on YouTube and cementing Kawa's status as a rising star in Kashmiri music.[5]

Since then, Kawa has released several popular tracks, each reflecting his deep connection to Kashmiri culture and his desire to promote the Kashmiri language through music. His work includes songs like "Madnoa," "Zaroori Shum," and "Ha Yaroa Walo," which have resonated deeply with both local and international audiences.[4]

In 2023, Kawa made his Bollywood playback debut by recording the title song for the movie "Welcome to Kashmir." This marked a significant milestone in his career, fulfilling his dream of bringing the Kashmiri language to a broader audience through mainstream cinema.[5]

Musical style and influence

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Kawa's music is a unique blend of traditional Kashmiri folk and contemporary pop, with a strong emphasis on lyrical content that explores themes of love, spirituality, and the natural beauty of Kashmir. He incorporates traditional Kashmiri instruments such as the rabab, santoor, and noot in his compositions, which adds an authentic and distinctive sound to his music.

Kawa is widely regarded as a key figure in the revival of interest in Kashmiri music, particularly among the younger generation. His work has inspired many emerging artists to explore and reinterpret the rich musical traditions of the region.[4]

Personal life

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Ishfaq Kawa maintains a relatively private personal life, residing in Srinagar where he continues to be actively involved in various cultural and musical projects. He is also known for his advocacy of Kashmiri culture and language, using his platform to promote the preservation of the region's rich cultural heritage.[4]

References

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  1. ^ a b "About Ishfaq Kawa". YouTube.
  2. ^ "I want Kashmiri language to reach Bollywood, says singer Ishfaq Kawa". ANI News. 2020-08-05. Retrieved 2024-08-18.
  3. ^ "From humble farmer's son to new singing sensation: Ishfaq Kawa comes long way to become 'Arijit Singh of Kashmir'". The Kashmir Monitor. 2020-06-30. Retrieved 2024-08-18.
  4. ^ a b c d "Kashmiri Singing Sensations: Ishfaq Kawa". Radio Baramulla. 2024-04-02. Retrieved 2024-08-18.
  5. ^ a b "Kashmir's own Arjit Singh set to make a playback debut in Bollywood". Lokmat Times. 2023-01-03. Retrieved 2024-08-18.