Mushtaq Bala is a prominent figure in Indian media, journalism, and filmmaking, hailing from the culturally rich region of Kashmir. As a filmmaker, journalist, and cultural advocate, Bala has played a crucial role in promoting and preserving the artistic and cultural heritage of his homeland.
Mushtaq Bala received his early education at D.A.V Higher Secondary School in Magarmal Bagh and Jawahar Nagar, Srinagar. For higher education, he attended Amar Singh College in Srinagar. From a young age, Bala’s passion for storytelling and media was ignited by the region’s diverse cultural and historical narratives, which became the foundation for his later work. Over time, he developed his skills in both filmmaking and journalism, establishing a respected reputation in the industry.
With an extensive background in media production, Mushtaq Bala has excelled in creating tele-serials, documentaries, short films, corporate productions, and musical and devotional programs. His notable works, recognized both nationally and internationally, include mega-serials such as Yeh Zindagi Hai Gulshan, Bandhan, Gulistan, Guleemuth, Neela Nagina, and Hans Andersen Ki Kahaniyan. His films like Budshah, Tanha Tanha, and Lakeerian have earned acclaim, along with documentaries such as Ancient Architectural Styles of Kashmir and Sufiyana Music of Kashmir. Bala is empanelled as a Director/Producer with the Directorate General of Doordarshan and the Directorate of Advertising & Visual Publicity (DAVP) in New Delhi, with his works showcased at various film festivals across India and internationally, receiving wide critical recognition.
In addition to his filmmaking, Mushtaq Bala serves as the Editor-in-Chief of Kashmir Pen, an English-language weekly tabloid and a 24×7 web portal. Through this platform, he has become a leading voice in Kashmiri journalism, contributing to discussions on culture, society, and politics, and providing a nuanced perspective on regional issues.
Bala also holds several important positions, including Chairman of the Kashmir Film Society, President of the Jammu Kashmir Film Makers’ Cooperative Society, and a core member of the Kashmir Artist Welfare Society. He is affiliated with the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industries, the Governing Board of the Kashmir Cultural Centre, and the Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA) in Mumbai. His journalism credentials are further solidified by his accreditation with DAVP and the Department of Information, J&K.
Mushtaq Bala’s work has earned him several prestigious awards. Among them are the Bharat Jyoti Award (2001), Shakir & Aslam Memorial Award (2002), National Achievement Award (2003), Ozone Green Award (2008), and the J&K State Award (2012, 2014). Internationally, he was honored with the Genova Film and Poetry Award (2012) and won the 1st and 2nd Rajasthan International Film Festival Awards (2015, 2016). Additionally, he received the Ustad Ghulam Mohammad Saaznawaz Academy Award (2017), the Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF) Award (2018), the 2nd Wular Lake International Short Film Award (2018), an Honorable Mention at the Cinemaking International Film Festival in Dhaka, Bangladesh (2021), Sarhad’s 1st J&K International Film Festival Award (2022), and the Kundan Lal Saigal Cine Award (2023).
Mushtaq Bala’s illustrious career reflects his unwavering dedication to the preservation and promotion of Kashmiri culture through media, film, and journalism. His profound passion for storytelling, combined with his commitment to social and cultural advocacy, continues to inspire future generations of artists and media professionals, ensuring that Kashmir’s rich heritage is both celebrated and preserved for years to come: Courtesy: Giltoor
(COMMENTS FROM WELL WISHERS);
“His contribution to films,media and cultural heritsge of kashmir is remagrkable.I am proud of him” : G.M.Bawan
“Excellent write-up and a great personality and an affable human being . I admire the person known as Mushtaq Bala . My best wishes for him”: Avtar Mota
“I know Mushtaq sahab from his young days , and would see him always well dressed and with a smiling face, a trait he continues to maintain even now. We lived in the same area and would exchange pleasantries .
As I was mostly posted in rural areas of Kashmir , we lost touch for some time , but I would try to keep a track about him. As we both had the same passion for Television and Radio , he fortunately created a niche for himself in theater, latter in Television and radio . Succeed in making some memorable Documentaries, and few lovable TV drama serials that had a formidable viewership at the national level.
Of late by share coincidence we again came in touch and could not refuse his offer for writing in his much popular weekly KASHMIR PEN.
I am greatly indebted to him for getting all my articles published in his weekly.
My Best wishes for Mushtaq sahab. May he continue to serve the media in the positive way, which is his hall mark otherwise” : Nisar Gilani
“Mushtaq Bala, The Man with an Everlasting Smile
Mushtaq Bala is not only a celebrated figure in Indian media and Kashmiri culture but also known for his reassuring smile that reflects his optimistic spirit. This warm demeanor complements his impressive career as a filmmaker, journalist, and cultural advocate, making him a beloved personality in his community.
His passion for storytelling and commitment to preserving the rich heritage of Kashmir shine through in all his work. Bala’s smile serves as a symbol of his dedication to uplifting others and promoting cultural pride. Whether engaging in media projects or connecting with the local community, his positivity leaves a lasting impact.
In addition to his filmmaking, Bala is the Editor-in-Chief of Kashmir Pen, an English-language weekly and web portal. This platform has established him as a prominent voice in Kashmiri journalism, offering insights into cultural, social, and political issues in the region – I found his contribution towards his land,cultural heritage examplary –
He provided a platformn where I can voice my concerns fearlessly and boldly ,,applauded at least in 14 countries
Bala’s approachable nature and genuine enthusiasm inspire those around him, encouraging future generations to embrace their cultural roots and pursue their artistic aspirations. His enduring smile truly embodies the spirit of resilience and hope in the face of challenges, making him a cherished figure in the world of media and beyond.
Mushtaq Bala’s career showcases his dedication to preserving and promoting Kashmiri culture through media and journalism. we wish him good health- more power to his passion”: Fiaz Fazili
“Proud of u sir!
You are such a lovely person!…together we had a wonderful time Hoisting Mr Nick Feilding, Researcher & Explorer from UK who visited kashmir in 2023 March…He always talks very high of you when I interact with him …by the way I didn’t know the great contributions you have made towards films, journalism and media…God bless you”: Amin Malik
“Since Giltoor has spoken so well, exhaustive and extensive about the person and personality of Mushtaq Bala Sahib with respect to his such qualifications and qualities which are unquestionable and appreciable one is left with no scope to speak anything more about him.
However, I once more feel proud of him for being originally from Srinagar Shehr – e – Khaas which is the birth place of many such personalities who have earned name and fame in their respective professions even on international level and Mushtaq Bala Sahib does not lag behind them. Carrying a rich family legacy also plays a big role in the life of people achieving such a success and becoming outstanding like Mushtaq Sahib. I really feel fortunate to sit with him and know the nitty gritties of life about which he is amply and authoritatively aware.
Wish him all the best. My salutes to him”: Er Manzoor Nawchoo
“Going to be effective in life, you must know your calling so that you can know which specific gifts to FOCUS on and that made the difference dear Bala .That’s the pay-off for all your diligence.
Congratulations! You surely deserved that”: Rajesh Kaul
“Our friend Mushtaq Bala is a man of profound humility and unwavering dedication to his work. Through Kashmir Pen, his weekly tabloid, he thoughtfully captures the essence of life in contemporary Kashmir. Soft-spoken, always smiling, and sincere in his efforts, his unique approach to life makes him a true gentleman. Wishing him nothing but the best in health, happiness, and success. Kudos to Giltoor for profiling him”: Showkat Shafi
“Nice to know more about Mushtaq sab ..whom I was very eager to meet during my recent kashmir trip where I was in connection with a film shooting schedule 🙏”: Romaish Pandita
“Nice to know about our Mushtaq sahib. He is in deed a great man . Happy to read about his achievements. 👋 Mushtaq Bala stay blessed”: Ibrahim Masoodi
“MashaAllah.Congratulations Mushtaq Bala Saab “: Mir Sarwar
“Mashallah great personality of kashmir….. Allah aap ko salamat rakhe sir……: “: Fahmeeda Imitiyaz
“Mushtaq Bala your remarkable journey in media & Kashmiri culture is truly inspiring. Your dedication to preserving the rich heritage of Kashmir through storytelling, filmmaking, and journalism has made a lasting impact both nationally and internationally. Your body of work continues to resonate with many, shining a light on the artistic and cultural narratives of your homeland. You are a true pioneer and advocate for Kashmiri culture!”: Tasawar Jalali
“Heartiest congratulations”: Kaw Rajesh
“Thanks for sharing this incredible information about Jenab Mushtaq Bala Sahab.
Proud of this great Man with immense role he has played in social and flim Media”: Naresh Kumar Kuda
“God bless you and have a great time ahead “: M.I. Kharoo
“Mushtaq Bala is gifted with incredible versatility. He wears myriad hats with amazing aplomb. The greatest quality of this multi – talented man is that despite his many achievements, he continues to be down to earth and humble.
Through Kashmir Pen he is doing great service to the world of journalism. I have been fortunate to contribute time and again to Kashmir Pen and have been very happy with the impeccable and flawless publication.
May you go from strength to strength. Mushtaq Bala Ji “: Santosh Bakaya
“Owns a pleasing personality and masterly accomplishes his concious assignments with zeal & Sincerity “: Hussain Shah
“Excellent detailed write up about a great personality great producer director who worked very hard and honestly to reach a stage in film and Television World that he got fame and respect in media
He is a thorough gentleman down’ to earth human being and best friend
He helped and introduced many people in media
Apart from making a name as producer and director he is serving as a leading journalist as he is managing well known and widely read weekly news paper Kashmir pen which is progressing by leaps and bounds
I wish my close friend happiness and prosperity and positive health
Wish he continues to contribute in future also
Best of luck “: Dr Nazir Mushtaq
“DrNazir Mushtaq Shb.
Besides what Dr Shb has said about Mushtaq Bala Shb ( The living son of the Soil)),I will add that to boost the Talent of Local Youth,Bala Shb should Continue his efforts further to contribute more.
I havea dream about Kashmiri Language Films will one day dominate Bolywood as the Cinema of South is doing 👌 at present.
Without waiting Government initiative,we should make our own efforts to decorate our Dreams about our Tommorow.
انشاءاللہ وہ صبح ضرور اور ضرور آئیگی”: Bhat Gmbhat
“Mushtaq Bala is a great humen being with a golden heart.God may bless you with all joys ,happiness nd good health”: Vinay Raina
We should be proud. Of Mr Bala : Ravinder Bali
“Informative and insightful .A great read “: Jaya Parimu
“Slow and Study wins the race…….that is what you have proved.
My best wishes for you future prospects.
Allah bless you”: Rafi Ahmad
“Mushtaq Bala is a name in jk particularly in film production and also journalism. He deserves accolades”: Soukat Farooqi
“Great personalty in whole sarinager what a kind hearted and loyal person I have never seen sach type of person in my whole life he must should be awarded in this sector I personally thanks to giltoor to provide more information about our beloved BALA SHAB
thanks sajad shahabidi”: Sajad Ahmad
“Proud of your achievements, staying grounded besides contributing in propagation & preservation of our joint cultural heritage for current as well as future generations. Congratulations & all the best for your future endeavors 🙏🙏”: Vijay Kumar Challu
“Mushtaq sahab I am also an alumni of DAV magermal bagh rom 1954 starting from kindergarten and son of your principal Sh. R. K. Ganjoo. While going through your achievements we feel proud of your intellectual ability and dedication towards your career. God bless you with long healthy and prosperous life”: Tej Krishnan Ganjoo
“My association to Mushtaq Bala sb is long back to 1982-83when I was posted in PHE Sopore.l knew him as a handsome thorough gentleman ready to take any challenging work.A gifted talented person with a golden heart. I wish him all the best & more success in future “: Vijay Warikoo
“Congratulations on your achievement Your talent, creativity, and dedication to the film making and particularly media concern are truly inspiring. You have set a remarkable standard in film society and theatre media bench and your success is well-deserved. My best wishes to you”: Altaf Hussain
“Feel proud of him for being our childhood classmate in school days.I vividly remember his bonding with all class mates and a humrous person.Golden memories can’t be erased till breath. So proud of you dear
God bless you”: Ravinder Sus
“Remain always blessed with good health and prosperity”: Mahajabeen Lone
“Great man.
God bless” : Muzzafar Shah
“Very impressive , deserves many more accolades. Best wishes and good luck to him in his endeavors”: Qazi Ajaz Rashid
“MashaAllah… congratulations and best wishes for future endeavours” : Juwaira Pakhliwal
“Great. We are proud of your achievements.Wish you further achievemnts and best wishes”: Javed Shabbir Khan
“Masha Allah , Quality Personality . Keep up the good work as usual , Stay happy & blessed always”: Javid Nizami
“Fantastic write-up . God bless you always Mustaq Sahab” : Mohammad Yusuf Bhat
“Heartiest congratulations and best of luck”: Manzoor Ahmad
“proud to have a friend like you. and really got surprised to read all your greatest achievement. best wishes. 👍”: Javid Butt
“May allah bless the eminent n powerful and intellectual dignity of Kashmir. We Kashmiries r proud of u”: Naseem Baluch
“I remember your dialogue in famous dd play Dastar in 70,s
“Ye tchive mara tuchy یہ چیوہ مارا تو ہہ
That was lovely one. You are great human being”: Shabir Mujahid
“Congratulations and best wishes…fr dear mamu today n always..”: Farah Deeba
“Useful information 😀😀”: Rajni chrungoo
“A great personalty and great human being”: GH Mohiudin Aajiz
“My brother may Allah bless you always with good comfort and prosperity”: Umdat Un Nisa
“God bless you and may you succeed in your future endeavours also”: Rita Parimoo
“Well described n analysed”: Mrd Kundangar
“Congratulations 🎊”: Shaukat Shahdhar
“Good man God bless”: Wajahat Hussain Khan
“Congratulations”: Mariam Karim – Ahlawat
“Dear Mushtaq you have made us proud by your hard work keep going & God be with you always”: Abdul Rauf
“Masha Allah , Quality Personality . Keep up the good work as usual , Stay happy & blessed always”: Javid Nizami
“Nice to hear about, Mushaq A.Bala, a Kashmiri journalist and film producer and a director. He is a role model for all Kashmiri young men and women who are confused right now and are struggling. Hard work and passion can take you to the heights of excellence in any field they choose to be. My good wishes and payers for a healthy and long life to Mushtaq Bala sahib”: Latif Ahmed Khan
“Awesome. Beautiful write up. Congratulations”: Satya Prakash Sabherwal
“Heartiest congratulations mamu rise and shine always”: Humaira Bashir Baba
“Congratulations very impressive 🙏” : Bimla Zutshi
“Jenab Bala Sob chu Pazee Akh Bod ore Bala Shakhsiyat.We are proud of him” : Bhat Mohiuddin Ghulam
“May Allah’s blessings be showered upon you” : Manzoor Jan
“Very impressive and critically important work to promote harmony and understanding” : Manjula Kumar
“The amount of content shared in this post and comment thread about Mushtaq Bala Sahib highlights how much people appreciate and admire him. The quantity of what has been written reflects how beloved he is among the intellectuals and artists here, and how much his personality is admired. Apart from recognizing his artistic contributions and social status, he is also a kind-hearted man, and I have always found him to be full of goodwill. May Allah keep him happy and prosperous” : Nazir Jahangir
“Congratulations” : Ashok Pandita
“Best wishes” : Shakeel Rehman
“Great personality and an excellent human being besides a multifaceted artist” : Vena Dhar
“Respect for u sir” : Saiqa Jan shah Saiqa
“Well described and analysed” : Arif Amin Arif
“Heartiest congratulations” : Manzoor Lara
“Best wishes 🎉” : Suha Bala
“Truly emancipated person who endears everyone with his intellect and charm!” : Ashok Ogra
“My good wishes and love as a brother always with you dear” : Nisar Ahmad Baksh
ہماری شان۔مشتاق بالا صاحب”: Majeed Majazi
“Congratulations to humble personality” : Suhail Ahmad
“God bless you” : Mohammad Sadiq Beigh
“Nice very graceful” : Humayu Malik
“So true about a versatile son of the soil. Lasean tae navean” : Parvez Maqbool Fazili
Mushtaq Bala is a profoundly blessed personality with the enormous & quality contribution to the arenas of film making, cross-section of media and journalism.
He is a widely
acclaimed ,rewarded and decorated eminent Indian film maker.
Bestowed with a tranquil and noble demeanor, contagious to the people who come in his enigmatic contact, Mushtaq Bala edits & publishes one of the most popular News paper of Kashmir .. Kashmir Pen,known for its distinct articulation,public information and flawless credibility.
Humble ,grounded and golden hearted person ,Mushtaq Bala sahab is always ready ,at the drop of a hat, to help people ,in the need , irrespective of caste creed colour or background they hail from.
We have been proud close friends for almost four decades and I always cherish the memories of his affection and generosity.
A wonderful threadbare article opening up to his indelible unparalleled contributions, genuinely touching the wider layers & contours of his impressive personality.
May Master always bestow Grace on him!” : Jugal Koul
“Wonderful personality” : Mir Imtiyaz Afreen
:Wow super duper nice information 💯” : Peerzada Ghulam Ahmed
“Graceful.personality in media world & a professional film maker & writer as well as reciperant of many prestigious .awards in.his professional field ♥️Congratulations & best wishes” : Farooq Reshi
“A man with versatility having numerous laurels in pocket, yet humble and submissive…!” : Irfan Baba
“It’s nice to see you after a long time.My congrats and best wishes to you ❤️” : Anisa Bilal
“Very talented and super human being. He always wants to do good things in life. Lot of 💕 love and blessings to him. He is a dreamer and knows how to realise these” : Maharaj Shah
“Undoubtedly a multi faceted personality, Mushtaq Bala has not only displayed immense talent in varied genres of film making but also proved his mettle in journalism in the form of Kashmir Pen. Such talent would have gone to anybody’s head and made them proud of it but not Mushtaq Bala ………. he remains a down to earth person, full of humility. A thorough gentleman and always ready to help anyone in need. I wish him success in everything that he tries his hand at” : Ajaz Andrabi
“Aijaz Andrabi
You have so well described Mushtaq Bala .
He is a talented all rounder.And the most important aspect of his personality is his dignified social behaviour laden with humility.
May he prosper futhur in his profession of filmmaking and journalism. Kashmir Pen has emerged as a precious document never seen before in kashmir” : Dr. Ab Wahid
“Mushtaq Bala You have a great contribution to film making and drama local,National and international.Pround son of kashmiri soil” : Peer Moin Din
“Love , admire and feel proud of great creative personalities like dear Mushtaq Bala..” : Veerinder Patwari
“Very humble generous and down to earth. Allah bless him” : Ajaz Kamil Khan
“Tremendous achievements; your career profile is as impressive as handsome is your lovely visage. Congratulations; it’s indeed a privilege to be in your network!!!” : G M Kakapori
Apart from his tremendous contribution in the fields of media both electronic n print film n culture. He bears a modest n humble persona.In him I have always found a refined polished n cultured human being who’s friendship can be a valuable asset for anybody.
I have known him for more than more decades n seen him scaling new heights as a competent media professional.
Anybody who comes in contact with him can not remain isolated from receiving positive vibes of love n warmth of his personna.
With love and regards to dear Mushtaq sahib”: Khursheed Wani
“Talent never dies”: Mohammad Shafi
“A well known creative professional. A well known creative personality”:Dr Asrar Sultanpuri
“Great artist with a kind heart”:Dr Sazia Hamid Baba
“Proud Kashmiri may Allah bless him “: Dr. G.Q Allaqaband
“Your dynamism is infectious, and it’s amazing to see how you seamlessly blend your passion for journalism, filmmaking, and cultural exploration. Your contributions to Kashmir’s media landscape are invaluable, and your films have given voice to many untold stories.
This photo is a testament to your adventurous spirit and your ability to embrace diverse cultures with ease. Keep inspiring us with your energy and creativity! I endorse with all my professional confidence that you are an asset as for your unforgettable contribution and extraordinary skills in the field of Radio ,Television and journalism is concerned”: Peerzada Abdal Mahjoor
“A very seasoned professional person. He is admired by the fraternity across all sections. May God bless him always”: Maharaj Shah
“Dear more than his credentials he is a good friend. Allah bless him with more honour and robust health”: A G Khan
“Though I don’t have any close proximity or so much acquaintance with this Handsome Iconic guy, but has all love and respect for him….
This handsome guy has something magnetic in him ……”: Ishtiyak Qadri
Courtesy: GILTOOR
