Srinagar, Sep 23: As many as 90 young artists have registered for the fourth season of Fankar-E-Kashmir (FEK), with 70 shortlisted for live auditions and the final 15 to secure a place on the main stage at the season finale.
According to organizers, as per , the two-day live auditions will feature 35 performers each day. They said they have witnessed a notable increase in the participation of instrumentalists this year, along with two promising rappers bringing contemporary sounds to the platform.
The auditions are being held as part of fourth season of Fankar-E-Kashmir, a cultural initiative by ShowCase Events, The Eagle and Kashmir Rabab Academy, aimed at providing greater visibility and professional opportunities to young Kashmiri musicians.
The season will culminate in a grand finale at Tagore Hall, Srinagar, on September 28.
Now in its fourth year, the initiative has evolved from a folk-music platform into a broader ecosystem featuring live performances, mentorship, knowledge sessions and recording opportunities.
“This year, we are seeing a particularly diverse pool of talent, with many instrumentalists and even rappers coming forward,” said Nazir Ganaie, Founder of Kashmir Rabab Academy. “It shows that Kashmir’s musical tradition is not static. Young artists are finding new ways to interpret and carry it forward.”
Angelina Fernandes, Founder of The Eagle, said FEK has grown significantly since its inception, with platform working to connect artists with recognition and professional opportunities beyond Kashmir.
Nanni Singh, Chief Executive of ShowCase Events, said initiative seeks to create sustained opportunities for young talent while building a wider cultural economy around local music.
The season has also brought together institutional and community partners, with Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) supporting initiative. Sustainnovate Research & Advocacy Foundation (SIRAF) has joined as NGO partner, while RAAB Foundation has come on board as Title Sponsor.
From traditional folk singers and instrumentalists to emerging contemporary performers, fourth season of Fankar-E-Kashmir continues to provide a platform for Kashmir’s musical heritage to connect with a new generation of artists.
