SANJAYPANDITA
In the enchanting valleys of Jammu and Kashmir, amidst the serene beauty of nature, resides a musical maestro whose mellifluous voice echoes through the hearts of many. Naina Saproo, a name revered in the realm of music, is not just a noted singer but also a gifted composer and a profound lyricist. Born and brought up in the embrace of a God-fearing family, she was destined to weave the tapestry of her life with the threads of melody and artistry.
From a tender age, young Naina embarked on her musical journey, and like a budding flower, her talent blossomed. The melodious notes of her voice captured the attention of many, and soon, she became approved singer of Akaashwani, a title that symbolized her vocal prowess and dedication. Under the expert tutelage of Prof. Rajan Sachadeva, she honed her skills and delved deeper into the intricacies of music, nurturing her passion with unwavering determination.
Her thirst for knowledge and her pursuit of excellence led her to pursue a Senior Diploma in classical music vocal from Gandharva Mahavidhyalaya. True to her commitment, she not only attained the distinction she so rightfully deserved but also transcended her own capabilities. The culmination of her academic journey was marked by her M.A. in Music from Prachin Kala Kendra, an accolade that showcased her mastery over the art form.
Naina’s musical brilliance traversed linguistic boundaries, and her melodies found solace in the hearts of listeners across different languages, including the resonance of some foreign tongues. Her albums, an opus of emotions and expressions, rendered in Kashmiri, Hindi, and Sanskrit, left an indelible mark on the souls of those who embraced them.
Among the jewels of her artistic treasure trove, the album “Panchastavi” shimmered with an unparalleled brilliance, resonating deeply with the Kashmiri Pandit community. Its mellifluous notes, like a soothing balm, caressed the wounds of time and carried the rich cultural heritage of the region to the world beyond. Alongside this, she adorned the musical canvas with other divine creations such as “Bhajan Trishul,” “Aatmagyaan,” “Mahimnapaar,” and a plethora of others, each a reflection of her soul’s journey.
Naina Saproo, a multifaceted artist, didn’t confine her talents solely to singing. Her creative spirit also found expression in the realm of acting, gracing the stage in various Doordarshan plays, where she enthralled audiences with her emotive performances.
Recognition and acclaim followed Naina like the gentle breeze that caresses the valleys of her homeland. The J&K Cultural Academy, recognizing her prowess as a stage actress, bestowed upon her the prestigious award for Best Stage Actress in 1979-80 for her riveting portrayal in the stage play “CACTUS.” Countless other organizations, both from her state and beyond, adorned her with honors, a testament to her immense contribution to the world of arts and culture.
Among her many compositions, “Prabhaat Ke Waawo” emerged as a true household gem within the Kashmiri Pandit community. Its divine lyrics and enchanting melody painted the dawn with the colors of hope and reverence. Prof. M. L. Kukiloo and Arvind Shah endeavored to translate this divine creation into Hindi and English, respectively, ensuring that its profound message transcended borders and touched souls universally.
In the symphony of life, Naina Saproo’s voice continues to resonate, carrying the legacy of Jammu and Kashmir’s musical heritage to new heights. Her dedication, her artistry, and her soulful renditions serve as an inspiration, guiding aspiring musicians and artists to find their own melody within the tapestry of life. Through her unwavering commitment to music, she remains an eternal muse, etched in the hearts of those who find solace in the timeless embrace of her divine melodies.
As the years gracefully dance along the corridors of time, Naina Saproo’s musical journey continues to flourish like a perennial river, flowing through generations with unwavering grace. Her mellifluous voice, honed with expertise and nurtured by passion, weaves tales of emotions that transcend time and space, touching the hearts of listeners across the globe.
Beyond the boundaries of language and culture, Naina’s resonating verses have been embraced by diverse communities, uniting them under the universal language of music. Her compositions in foreign languages, like musical ambassadors, bridge the gaps between nations, fostering harmony and understanding. Such is the power of her artistic genius, which not only entertains but also enlightens and inspires.
Beyond the realm of music, Naina’s poetic soul finds expression in the realm of literature. Her lyrical verses, inked with profound emotions, unveil the depth of her being. Like a cascading waterfall, her poetic words flow, nourishing the parched hearts of those who seek solace and meaning in the written word. Her poetic endeavors, like petals scattered across the pages, leave an enduring fragrance in the hearts of readers.
As an ardent believer in the power of education and knowledge, Naina remains dedicated to passing on her musical legacy to the next generation. With profound humility, she takes on the role of a revered guru, nurturing young talents under her wings. Through her guidance and teachings, she shapes budding musicians into radiant stars, poised to shine brightly in the vast expanse of the musical firmament.
Through her soulful performances and charismatic stage presence, Naina Saproo has carved an eternal niche in the annals of music history. Her concerts, like celestial symphonies, are a celebration of the human spirit and a homage to the divine gift of melody. Each note, infused with her passion and devotion, becomes an offering to the muses that have guided her artistic odyssey.
Yet, amid all the acclaim and recognition, Naina remains anchored in her humility, never forgetting her roots and the people who have contributed to her success. Her God-fearing upbringing and the values instilled by her family remain the bedrock of her character, grounding her amidst the whirlwind of fame and applause.
Her life, like an elegantly composed raga, weaves together the harmonies of dedication, passion, and devotion. With each passing verse, her legacy finds new voices and echoes through the hearts of those who carry the torch of art and culture forward. For Naina Saproo, the journey is not just about creating music—it’s a quest to touch souls, elevate spirits, and leave an everlasting impression on the canvas of eternity.
As we witness the tapestry of Naina’s life unfold, we are reminded of the immortal words of Rumi, “Let yourself be silently drawn by the strange pull of what you really love. It will not lead you astray.” And indeed, in the radiant notes of her melodies and the poetic verses of her compositions, we witness the manifestation of a soul truly drawn to the strange pull of her art—the divine harmony that has led her, and will continue to lead her, along the path of musical brilliance.
Sanjay Pandita can be reached at sanjaypanditasp@gmail.com
