SANJAY PANDITA
In the region (Kashmir) known for its snow-capped mountains and rich history, where the Chinar trees sway in the breeze and the Jhelum River flows steadily, Mehmeet Syed’s arrival was a significant moment. Her birth wasn’t just a personal event for her family; it marked the beginning of something new and important. Mehmeet’s presence would soon become known for bringing back old, forgotten melodies, allowing the music of the Kashmir valley to be heard and appreciated once again.
Her story is not merely one of a singer but a tale of resilience, beauty, and an unyielding spirit, much like the valley that bore her. From the moment her infant cry reverberated through the serene landscapes, there was an ineffable quality about Mehmeet, as though the muses of ancient lore had conspired to weave music into her very soul. The gentle lullabies that her mother, Yasmeen Mir, crooned were more than just songs—they were potent seeds, rich with the heritage of classical ragas and folk tunes, planted in the fertile soil of Mehmeet’s being.
Yasmeen, herself a graduate in music, was not merely a mother but a beacon of inspiration. Her dreams were vivid with the colorful notes of India’s musical traditions, and these cascaded into Mehmeet’s cradle, infusing the little one’s early years with a profound connection to sound. It was under Yasmeen’s loving guidance that Mehmeet took her first steps towards a destiny that would soon sweep her into the embrace of both local and global audiences.
By the tender age of six, when most children are still lost in the wonder of discovery, Mehmeet had already found her purpose. The stage of Presentation Convent School became her first playground, and her voice, a powerful force, stirred the hearts of all who heard her. Her performance at a school event was more than just a display of talent; it was a declaration—a young bird perched high, ready to spread her wings and soar into the unknown. The teachers and principal, deeply moved by her innate gift, saw in her a treasure, a cultural gem that they were eager to showcase at every opportunity.
Encouraged by the early recognition of her talents, Mehmeet embarked on a formal education in music, a path that would demand discipline, dedication, and an unyielding passion. Under her mother’s watchful eyes, she delved deep into the intricate world of Indian classical music. The strains of the harmonium became a daily companion, and the rigorous practice of vocal techniques a part of her being. It was during these formative years that the political and social unrest of Kashmir loomed like a distant storm—ever-present but unable to shake the young girl’s resolve. Her father, Syed Makhdoomi, and her brother, Muheet Syed, provided a sanctuary of love and support, the strong foundation upon which she would build her dreams.
By the time she reached her teenage years, Mehmeet was more than ready to share her gift with the world. In 2004, her collaboration with local composers culminated in the creation of her first video album, “Cholhama Roshay Roshay.” Released in 2005 by Neel Akash Films, the album was not just a collection of songs but a beacon of light that pierced through the darkness of the valley’s turbulent times. The melodies carried with them a message of hope and resilience, resonating far beyond the borders of Kashmir, reaching as far as the United States, the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. Overnight, Mehmeet was transformed from a local talent into a global icon, a symbol of cultural renaissance in a region beset by turmoil.
The success of her debut album was not a fleeting moment but the beginning of an illustrious career that would see her evolve as an artist, a storyteller, and an ambassador of peace. Over the years, she released six more albums, each one a testament to her growing artistry and unwavering passion. Her music, a blend of traditional Kashmiri folk and contemporary elements, found a permanent place in the hearts of millions. Television, film, and radio soon beckoned, and she became a regular feature, using her art to spread messages of love, unity, and harmony.
Recognition came in waves, in the form of numerous awards and accolades. Mehmeet was nominated for the prestigious Padma Shri, India’s highest civilian honor, a nomination that underscored her significant contributions to the revival of Kashmiri music. A moment of personal triumph came when the President of India, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, personally presented her with an achievement award—a moment that immortalized her contributions to the cultural tapestry of her homeland.
In 2017, she received the prestigious State Award, another testament to her impact and influence. Her contributions were further recognized by the then Prime Minister of India, Mr. Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who, in his own poetic way, lauded her efforts in bringing the rich musical heritage of Kashmir to the forefront. Later, she would again be honored by the President of India, this time by Her Excellency, Draupadi Murmu, who acknowledged Mehmeet’s unwavering dedication to her craft and her role as a cultural ambassador.
Throughout her journey, Mehmeet collaborated with some of the most iconic figures in Indian music. Her work with Subhash Ghai, particularly for an election song that brought together the voices of Sukhwinder Singh, Sonu Nigam, Alka Yagnik, Kavita Krishnamurthy, Chitra Singh, Kailash Kher, Mika Singh, the late Ustad Rashid Khan, Javed Ali, and others, was a milestone. In this grand chorus, Mehmeet’s voice represented Kashmir, a poignant reminder of the region’s rich cultural legacy.She has also sang for a movie with the filmfare award winner, Ami Mishra.The song is, “Lamha Lamha..”
However, life, much like music, is composed of both high notes and deep lows. In 2006, the melody of Mehmeet’s life was struck by a discordant note. Her mother got a paralytic stroke in December, 2006. She was bed ridden till she passed away in August, 2011. The news was a devastating blow, one that brought Mehmeet’s soaring career to an abrupt halt. She chose to retreat from the limelight, dedicating herself to the care of her ailing mother. For nearly four years, the stage remained empty, the microphone silent, as Mehmeet focused on filling her mother’s final days with peace and love. This period, marked by grief and loss, was the most challenging chapter in her life. Yet, even in the silence, the essence of her music lived on, waiting for the right moment to reemerge.
In 2014, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Mehmeet returned to the world of music with a renewed sense of purpose and passion. Her comeback was nothing short of spectacular. Early in 2015, she embarked on her first concert tour in the United States, performing in cities like New York, Los Angeles, Texas, and Washington, D.C. Each concert was a sold-out event, a testament to her enduring appeal and the undying love of her fans. Social media buzzed with excitement, and requests for more performances poured in from around the globe.
The latter part of 2015 saw Mehmeet enchanting audiences in Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, Auckland, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Los Angeles, Virginia, Buffalo.Her performances were a mesmerizing blend of soulful vocals and captivating stage presence, leaving thousands of listeners spellbound. The years that followed were a whirlwind of tours, with plans to perform in the United Kingdom, Europe, Malaysia, and Singapore—a clear indication that Mehmeet was far from done.
Despite her demanding career, Mehmeet’s thirst for knowledge remained unquenched. She pursued and obtained three Master’s degrees from the University of Kashmir and Indira Gandhi National Open University, a remarkable feat that reflected her multifaceted personality. This academic achievement was not just a personal victory but a testament to her belief in the power of education, even amidst a flourishing career in the arts.
Mehmeet Syed, often referred to as the nightingale of Kashmir, has a voice that transcends boundaries. Her melodious tunes are more than just songs; they are a tapestry of emotions, woven with threads of joy, sorrow, hope, and resilience. The camera, it seems, adores her, capturing the essence of a woman who has made history by transforming and reviving the love for Kashmiri music. Her mission is clear—to spread the love of music across Kashmir, India, and the world, particularly among the younger generation.
In her, the youth of Kashmir see more than just a singer; they see a beacon of hope, a symbol of what can be achieved through dedication and passion. Mehmeet’s journey is a source of inspiration for many, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the human spirit can rise, creating beauty and harmony that resonates through time. Her story is not just a song of hope; it is an ode to the transformative power of music, and a testament to the indomitable spirit of a true artist.
As she continues to weave her magic through her music, Mehmeet remains grounded in her roots, ever mindful of the cultural heritage that has shaped her. She has taken it upon herself to nurture the next generation of musicians, offering them the guidance and support that she herself received as a young girl. Through workshops, mentorship programs, and collaborations with young artists, Mehmeet is ensuring that the rich musical traditions of Kashmir are passed down to future generations.
The writer can be reached at sanjaypanditasp@gmail.com
