New Delhi: Two weeks after the release of Songs of Paradise, a tribute to Padma Shri Raj Begum, who was famously called the “Nightingale of Kashmir”, its lead singer Masrat Un Nisa has become highly sought-after in Mumbai. The singer has been overwhelmed by how the critics have switched sides and have become her fans.
Kashmiri songs in the movie—directed by Danish Renzu—like Dil Tsooran, Vesiye Gulan and Tse Yewan Roshe from the film have taken over social media and have resonated deeply with the audience. Despite the language barrier, the songs have been featured in thousands of Instagram Reels. And, Nisa’s voice, unlike those of many before her, has been preserved from fading into obscurity.
“The film is a turning point for me. I am grateful that Danish sir chose me,” Nisa told ThePrint. “This film has opened new doors and given me the confidence to explore my voice more freely. It didn’t just change my career, it changed the way I look at life through music.”
She looks up to Raj Begum for paving the way for Kashmiri women in music. After all, the two have had a strikingly similar journey. Both were discovered at the young age of five and thereon, had to fight against all odds to make a career in music.
“I do feel a sense of responsibility to carry forward the legacy of Raj Begum ji. I believe music is beyond barriers. If my voice can contribute even a little to keeping that spirit alive, it will be an honour,” Nisa said, linking her journey with music to healing, expressing, and staying true to her roots.
Songs of Paradise, now streaming on Amazon Prime, stars Saba Azaad and Soni Razdan in lead roles. Directed by Danish Renzu, known for Half Widow (2018), the musical drama focuses on the rich culture of Kashmir that often gets buried under the ‘files’ of pre-conceived notions.
After Raj Begum, singers like Naseem Akhtar, Shamima Dev Azad, Asha Kaul, and Neerja Pandit gained significant popularity in the 80s. But, even today, Kashmir hasn’t changed. And, both Nisa and Renzu admit to the scenario.
According to Nisa, even though women singing is getting normalised, society still has its challenges, and not everyone is supportive. “But that only strengthens my resolve,” she added. “After the release of Songs of Paradise, my critics have also extended their support, saying that I chose the right profession.”
Also read: Actor-director Robert Redford, who founded Sundance Film Festival, dies
Renzu music
Renzu, who returned to Kashmir from Los Angeles in 2020, calls it “sad and unfortunate” that things haven’t changed much when it comes to women pursuing art and music in Kashmir. Hence, it was necessary to bring out the story of Raj Begum. Not only to preserve her legacy but also to inspire women.
Renzu said that society still doesn’t support and encourage women singers from Kashmir. “It remains a challenge,” he added. He, however, has been doing his bit to give wings to the voices of Kashmir and has signed multiple artists, including Nisa, and will be collaborating with the local talent on singles.
The filmmaker, under his music label—Renzu Music—has carved out a niche by combining music with storytelling through music videos. This collaboration will support both established and emerging voices like Masrat Un Nissa, Zahra Banoo, Noor Mohammad, Hyder Dar, Saqib Wani, Bilal Tantray, Afaq Dar, Kafil Qureshie and Tasneef Bukhari, among others.
“This will help the voices of Kashmir to travel across India,” Renzu said.
(Edited by Saptak Datta)