Excelsior Correspondent
BARAMULLA, Aug 10: In a historic feat, 10,000 young women from Baramulla created a world record by performing the largest Kashmiri Folk Dance ever at the ‘Kashur Riwaaj’ cultural festival, a mega event organized by the Dagger Division of Chinar Corps in collaboration with Baramulla District Administration and Indrani Balan Foundation, in the lead up to 78th Independence Day celebration.
The festival was held at Prof. Showkat Ali Indoor Stadium to showcase the vibrant traditions of Kashmir through traditional dances, music, calligraphy and cultural activities. The highlight was the collective performance of the Rouf dance by the young women, setting a new world record.
“We have been rehearsing for almost a month. Now we feel all the effort was worth it. This is a great achievement and we are proud to be part of the world record,” said one of the young participants.
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The District Administration, led by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Minga Sherpa, ensured the smooth execution of the event. Senior officials from the J&K Cultural Department, Police and NGOs were also present at the historic event and encouraged the participants.
The chief guest was Lt. Gen. Rajiv Ghai, Corps Commander of Chinar Corps, while Maj. Gen. Rajesh Sethi, GOC of Dagger Division and Baramulla Brigade Commander, Brigadier Rajat Bhatt, were also present on the occasion.
The Indrani Balan Foundation, led by Punit and Janhavi Balan supported the initiative, continuing their involvement in various development and cultural activities in Baramulla. “This is a shining example of constructive engagement and cooperation between Civil-Military-Industry and the Youth,” said an official from the IBF.
This record-breaking event was adjudicated by the Universal Records Forum. Universal Records Forum (URF) is an ISO 9001:2015 certified organization, compliant to Guiness records standards, which underscores its commitment to maintaining quality management standards. This certification ensures that URF adheres to rigorous processes and standards in its operations, including record verification and adjudication.
A local professor commented, “Kashmiri culture is a melting pot of diversity, but today’s youth show declining interest because it is not fashionable. The initiative of the army and district authorities has revived interest in our age-old traditions.”
The Cultural Fest served as a vibrant showcase of Kashmiri artistry and talent from renowned local artists. Attendees had the privilege of witnessing remarkable performances and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir.
Ishfaq Hamid Bhatt, a 13-year-old prodigy, showcased his exceptional skills on the Rubab. Awarded the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Bal Puraskar 2024, Master Ishfaq is renowned for his remarkable talent and dedication to preserving Kashmiri musical traditions.
Naseer Ahmed Mir, a celebrated Santoor player, also performed at the fest. He has been awarded a gold medal by the President of India during the Kashmir University convocation in 2021, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the art of Santoor playing. The Rubab and Santoor mini concert mesmerised the audience.
Shafi Mir, a calligraphy expert from Baramulla, was also part of the event. 70 years old, Mir has brought a lifetime of experience and skill to this craft. He also presented an intricate calligraphic work made on-the-spot to the chief guest.
The show was stolen by the passionate performance of the “Strings of Baramulla” band of the Chinar YUVA Centre. The audience was thrilled to see the popular RJs of Radio Baramulla take centre stage as the Master of Ceremonies. “It was a programme of the Youth, by the Youth, for the Youth of Baramulla,” said RJ Harleen.
RJ Sajid added “This event has demonstrated the vibrant spirit of our young generation and their dedication to preserving our cultural heritage while embracing a sense of national pride.”
The success of ‘Kashur Riwaaj’ has set a benchmark for future cultural engagements in the region, uniting the youth of Kashmir in a display of tradition and patriotism.
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