Aaqib Khan
Srinagar, Jan 20 (KNS): In Kreeri village of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, the harmonious notes of the Rabab have been a legacy for decades.
Ab Hamid Bhat, a seasoned Rabab player with 35 years of dedication, is a true inheritor of this musical tradition.
The son of the internationally acclaimed Rabab player Gh Qadir Bhat, who once graced the halls of Radio Kashmir Srinagar, Ab Hamid attributes his mastery of the instrument to the invaluable teachings of his father.
Recently making waves on the international stage, Ab Hamid proudly represented the musical heritage of Kashmir at the G20 Summit. Beyond his melodic performances, Hamid is a staunch advocate for the preservation of this traditional art form.
He calls for government initiatives to establish Rabab learning centers, envisioning a future where the younger generation can learn and carry forward the resonant tunes of the Rabab.
In a parallel tale of musical brilliance, Master Ishfaq Hamid, a prodigious talent from the same region, has achieved a milestone in his musical journey.
Selected for the esteemed Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, Ishfaq is not only a maestro of the Rabab but also a skilled player of the Matka. His outstanding contributions have not gone unnoticed, with accolades received during the 13th Kashmir festival and Guru Nanak Dev Ji's 550th Prakash Parv.
Adding to his laurels, Ishfaq has been honored with the Bhai Mardana National Award 2020 by NGO Sarhad. Expressing immense pride in his achievement, Ishfaq looks forward to the ceremonial conferring of the award by the President of India at Vigyan Bhawan on January 22, 2024.
The stories of Ab Hamid Bhat and Master Ishfaq Hamid intertwine to create a symphony of success emanating from Kreeri.
Their dedication to the Rabab not only preserves a rich cultural heritage but also propels Kashmir's traditional music onto the global stage, resonating with audiences worldwide. As these musical maestros continue to craft melodies, their narratives echo the triumphs of perseverance, talent, and a commitment to cultural legacy.(KNS)