SANJAY PANDITA
In the old and culturally vibrant locality of Maharaj Bazar near Anira Kadal in Srinagar, where narrow lanes carry the fragrance of tradition and the echoes of history, Aejaz Rah was born into a family where music was not merely an art but a way of life. His childhood was not surrounded by silence or ordinary sounds; instead, it was filled with melodies, rehearsals, and the disciplined rhythm of classical music. In such an environment, music did not have to be taught—it was absorbed naturally, like air.
His father, Ghulam Mohd Rah, was a respected and versatile singer of his time. He was known for lending his voice to many memorable and timeless songs that became part of Kashmir’s cultural memory. For young Aejaaz, his father was not just a parent but his first teacher, mentor, and inspiration. Watching his father practice, perform, and live a life devoted to music left a deep impression on him. It shaped his understanding that music is not just about singing; it is about dedication, discipline, and emotional truth.
Growing up in such a musical atmosphere, Aejaz Rah showed signs of talent at a very early age. His voice carried a natural sweetness, and his ability to understand rhythm and melody was far beyond his years. Recognizing this potential, his family ensured that he received proper training. He was trained in light classical music under his father and other respected teachers like the late Mohd. Ashraf and Gh. Nabi Sheikh. These mentors played an important role in shaping his vocal skills and deepening his understanding of music.
His musical journey was further enriched when he trained under the guidance of Bollywood tabalist Karim Chacha. This exposure helped him understand the finer aspects of rhythm and performance. It also broadened his musical outlook, allowing him to connect classical foundations with modern styles. This combination of traditional training and contemporary exposure later became one of his strongest strengths.
Aejaz Rah’s professional journey began very early. In 1977, he started performing as a child artist on All India Radio and Doordarshan. These platforms have historically been the stepping stones for many great artists in India, and for Aejaz, they became the foundation of his long and successful career. His early performances were appreciated for their clarity, emotional depth, and confidence. Even as a child, he displayed a maturity that set him apart.
Over the years, his dedication and hard work brought him recognition and respect. He was approved as a Grade ‘A’ singer in both Kashmiri and Urdu by All India Radio, which is considered one of the highest honors for a vocalist. In addition, he was also recognized as a Grade 1 Music Composer. These achievements were not easy to attain; they required years of consistent effort, practice, and excellence.
But Aejaz Rah did not limit himself to singing alone. He explored multiple dimensions of performing arts and emerged as a music composer, actor, and cultural promoter. His ability to compose music added a new layer to his creativity. As a composer, he brought freshness to traditional sounds while maintaining their authenticity. His compositions reflect a deep understanding of Kashmiri culture, poetry, and emotion.
His contribution to Kashmiri music is vast and significant. He has sung for numerous albums, television programs, and cultural events. His songs often carry themes of love, longing, nature, and spirituality. They connect deeply with listeners because they reflect real emotions and experiences. His voice has a unique quality—it is both soothing and powerful, capable of expressing a wide range of feelings.
One of his notable works is the album Saun Alamdar, which is based on the shruks of Sheikh-ul-Alam. This project is important not only as a musical creation but also as a cultural effort to revive and promote spiritual poetry. By bringing these teachings into a musical format, Aejaaz Rah made them accessible to a wider audience, especially the younger generation. It was a meaningful attempt to keep the spiritual heritage of Kashmir alive.
Apart from music, Aejaz Rah has also made his mark in films. He has acted in several movies, including Fitoor, Shikara, The Illegal, Wagah, Operation Valentine, and Match Fixing. Though his roles may vary in size, his presence in these films reflects his versatility as an artist. Acting allowed him to express himself in a different medium and reach new audiences.
His involvement in major cultural and broadcasting milestones further highlights his importance as an artist. He performed during the first test transmission of colored programs on Doordarshan Kashmir, an event that marked a new era in television history in the region. He also performed at the official launch of Doordarshan Kashmir and later at the launch of Zee Kashmir. These moments were not just personal achievements but part of the larger cultural development of Kashmir.
Aejaz Rah has been an active performer on stage as well. From early events like Jashn-e-Kashmir in 1986 to national celebrations at Bakshi Stadium, his voice has been heard in some of the most important gatherings. He performed during Republic Day and Independence Day celebrations, as well as various New Year and Eid special programs. His stage presence is marked by confidence, connection with the audience, and emotional delivery.
He has also shared the stage with well-known artists like Sadhna Sargam and Shabir Kumar. Performing alongside such respected names reflects the recognition he has earned in the music industry. In 2024, he also served as a co-judge for the show ‘Singing Star of J&K’, where he guided and encouraged young talent. This role shows his commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists.
Over the years, Aejaz Rah has received numerous awards and honors. These include the Khillat-e-Mehjoor Award for his song ‘Mouj’, the South Asia Peace Award, the Saaz-o-Awaaz Award by the Ministry of Culture, the Bakshi Memorial Award, and recognition from the British Kashmiri Medical Association in the UK. He has also been appreciated by the Jammu & Kashmir Police and the Central Reserve Police Force for his contributions. Each of these awards reflects a different aspect of his work and impact.
His contribution to television is equally impressive. He has sung and composed title tracks for many drama series broadcast on Doordarshan and other channels. These include popular programs like Gulistan Bostan, Udaan, Umeed, and many others. His music has played an important role in enhancing the storytelling of these shows, making them more engaging and memorable.
In addition to this, he has also worked on advertisements, lending his voice to brands such as Honda, Bajaj, LG, and J&K Bank. This shows his ability to adapt his voice and style to different formats and requirements. Whether it is a soulful song, a dramatic composition, or a commercial jingle, he brings sincerity and professionalism to his work.
Aejaz Rah’s journey is not just about personal success; it is also about cultural preservation. At a time when traditional music faces challenges from modern trends, he has remained committed to keeping Kashmiri music alive. His work reflects a deep respect for tradition while also embracing change. He understands that for any art form to survive, it must evolve without losing its roots.
As the President of the Artist Collective Guild (ACG), he has taken on the responsibility of supporting and promoting artists. Through this role, he works towards creating opportunities and recognition for others in the field. It shows his belief that art is not an individual pursuit but a collective effort.
What makes Aejaz Rah truly special is his connection with people. His music is not distant or complicated; it is simple, heartfelt, and relatable. It speaks to ordinary experiences and emotions, making it accessible to everyone. His voice carries the essence of Kashmir—the beauty of its landscapes, the depth of its culture, and the resilience of its people.
His journey from a young boy in Maharaj Bazar to a respected artist known across India and beyond is a story of dedication, passion, and perseverance. It shows what can be achieved when talent is supported by hard work and guided by values. Even after decades in the field, his commitment to music remains strong. He continues to perform, create, and inspire.
In the end, Aejaz Rah is more than just a singer or composer. He is a cultural ambassador, a storyteller, and a guardian of tradition. His life is a reminder that music is not just entertainment; it is a powerful force that connects people, preserves heritage, and expresses the deepest human emotions.
As long as his voice continues to resonate, the spirit of Kashmiri music will continue to live, reminding us of a rich cultural legacy that deserves to be heard, celebrated, and cherished for generations to come.
The writer can be reached at sanjaypanditasp@gmail.com
