SANJAY PANDITA
In the heart of the Chenab Valley lies the legacy of a man whose voice transcended mere melodies to become the very soul of Kashmiri music. Ghulam Nabi Doolwal, known affectionately as Janbaaz Kishtwari, embarked on a journey that intertwined the rhythms of his homeland with the cadence of his own spirit.
Born in the quaint village of Dool Hasti, Doolwal’s passion for music blossomed amidst the rugged beauty of Kishtwar. Despite societal barriers and religious prohibitions, he dared to pursue his craft, weaving tales of love and longing into the fabric of Kashmiri culture.
As he traversed the villages and towns of the Chenab Valley, Doolwal left an indelible mark on the hearts of his people. From the bustling streets of Kishtwar to the tranquil shores of Anantnag, his presence lingered like a melody, a reminder of the power of music to unite and inspire.
Today, as we trace the footsteps of Ghulam Nabi Doolwal, we are reminded of the enduring legacy of a man who dared to dream and sing in a world fraught with silence. His journey, though marked by hardship and adversity, stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of art.
In the realm of Kashmiri musical tradition, a striking transformation took place at the hands of the maestro, Doolwal Sahib. With an astute fusion of the timeless allure of Kashmiri singing and the intricate melodies of Hindustani Classical Music, Doolwal introduced the mesmerizing art form known as Chalant. This distinguished style, a manifestation of the Madhya Lai, intertwines the essence of proper Sur, Taal, and Chaal, while demanding an unparalleled commitment from the vocalist.
In the realm of Chalant, the singer is tasked with a profound discipline, maintaining a continuous, uninterrupted flow of breath, akin to a serene river’s unwavering course. Unlike the liberties afforded in light music, Chalant demands a seamless narrative, each note woven into the next with unwavering dedication. It is a forceful melody, a testament to the singer’s devotion of mind and spirit, evoking an aura of spiritual transcendence that captivates the listener’s senses.
One such exemplar of Chalant’s sublime resonance is found in Doolwal Sahib’s rendition of “Ha yaar mokhta haar” (O friend! My garland of pearls). Through his transcendent performance, Doolwal Sahib transports the audience to ethereal realms, where the very essence of human emotion intertwines with the divine, leaving an indelible mark upon the soul. Indeed, in the resplendent tapestry of musical expression, Chalant emerges as a beacon of artistic brilliance, forever etched in the annals of musical history.
Continuing the narrative of Ghulam Nabi Doolwal’s musical odyssey, let us delve deeper into the intricacies of his unique style of singing and explore the breadth of his contributions and achievements.. As a composer and lyricist, he penned verses that spoke to the soul, weaving together words and melodies to create musical tapestries of unparalleled beauty. His compositions, ranging from ghazals to naats, reflected the rich tapestry of Kashmiri culture, drawing inspiration from its poetry, folklore, and spiritual traditions.
Ghulam Nabi Doolwal remains a legend in the Kashmiri Music. He brought the freshness of Chalant style music to Kashmir from across the hills and the valleys of River Chenab . Though himself an accomplished poet , it goes to his credit that he sang the songs of almost all poets from the Kashmir valley. He brought the freshness of the poetry of many poets of the Chenab valley to Kashmir (especially Rassa Javidaani, Margoob Banihaali , Manshoor Banihaali , Bashir Bhaderwahi and Nishat Kishtwari ) and made them known all over.
“Mast Bahara”: This enchanting melody, with its lilting rhythm and soulful lyrics, remains one of Doolwal’s most beloved compositions.It transports listeners to a world of tranquility and beauty, evoking images of blooming gardens and gentle breezes. Its poetic verses, infused with themes of love and longing, resonate deeply with audiences, making it a perennial favorite.
“Az Roz Saane Dilbar Myane”: A masterpiece of Kashmiri music, this song showcases Doolwal’s mastery of the ghazal form. Its haunting melody and evocative lyrics weave a tale of unrequited love, touching the hearts of listeners with its poignant beauty. “
“Lol Chum Chonui Berith”: This spirited folk song captures the essence of Kashmiri culture with its lively rhythms and infectious energy. Doolwal’s playful vocals and playful lyrics paint a vivid picture of village life, celebrating the joys of camaraderie and community.
“Yinsa Chashman Sreh Karakh”: This soul-stirring ballad, with its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, speaks to the depths of human emotion. Doolwal’s powerful vocals convey a sense of longing and yearning, drawing listeners into a world of passion and desire.
“Kath Peth Kharab Korthas”: This poignant composition showcases Doolwal’s talent for storytelling, with its poignant lyrics and emotive delivery. The song’s themes of loss and redemption strike a chord with listeners, evoking a sense of empathy and understanding.
These are just a few examples of Ghulam Nabi Doolwal’s hit songs, each one a testament to his enduring legacy as a musical icon.
Among his many achievements, perhaps Doolwal’s greatest legacy lies in the impact he had on future generations of musicians. Through his teaching and mentorship, he inspired countless young artists to pursue their passion for music, imparting to them not only technical skills but also a deep appreciation for the art form. His nephew, Nissar Doolwal, himself a musician, attests to the profound influence his uncle had on his own musical journey, underscoring the enduring legacy of Janbaaz Kishtwari.
As a poet, Doolwal’s verses transcend the boundaries of time and space, capturing the essence of love, longing, and spirituality with unparalleled eloquence. His words, imbued with the fragrance of the Kashmiri soil, paint vivid portraits of life’s myriad emotions, from the ecstasy of love to the agony of separation. Through his poetry, Doolwal became a bard of the people, giving voice to their joys and sorrows in verses that resonate with authenticity and sincerity.
As a composer, Doolwal’s melodies possess a timeless quality that speaks to the soul. His compositions, ranging from soul-stirring ghazals to spirited folk tunes, are a testament to his musical genius and artistic vision. With each note, he weaves a tapestry of sound that transports listeners to distant lands and bygone eras, evoking emotions that linger long after the music fades away. Through his music, Doolwal forged a connection with his audience that transcended linguistic and cultural barriers, uniting hearts in a shared appreciation for the beauty of Kashmiri artistry.
As a singer, Doolwal’s voice is like a river flowing through the valleys of Kashmir, carrying with it the hopes and dreams of a people. His rich, melodious tones breathe life into his compositions, infusing them with a depth of emotion that is both powerful and profound. Whether he sings of love or loss, joy or sorrow, Doolwal’s voice resonates with a clarity and purity that touches the soul, leaving an indelible impression on all who hear it.
But perhaps Doolwal’s greatest contribution lies in the way he brought together poetry, music, and song to create a symphony of sound that speaks to the heart of Kashmiri culture. Through his artistry, he became a cultural ambassador for his homeland, sharing its rich traditions and heritage with audiences around the world. His achievements, though numerous, are not measured in awards or accolades, but in the enduring legacy of his music, which continues to inspire and uplift generations of listeners.
In recognition of his contributions to Kashmiri music, Doolwal received numerous accolades and honors throughout his lifetime. From prestigious awards to heartfelt tributes, he was celebrated as a cultural icon whose music transcended boundaries and touched the hearts of all who heard it. Yet, amidst the acclaim and adulation, Doolwal remained humble, always attributing his success to the love and support of his community.
Ghulam Nabi Doolwal, fondly remembered as Janbaaz Kishtwari, left behind a treasure trove of timeless melodies that continue to captivate audiences to this day. Among his many hit songs, several stand out as iconic representations of his musical genius and lyrical prowess.
In the end, Ghulam Nabi Doolwal’s legacy as a poet, composer, and singer is more than just a footnote in history—it is a testament to the enduring power of art to transcend boundaries and unite humanity in a shared celebration of life’s beauty. As long as his melodies echo through the valleys of Kashmir, his spirit will live on, a beacon of inspiration for all who seek to find meaning in the language of music and song.
The writer can be reached at sanjaypanditasp@gmail.com
