Srinagar, Jan 12: Valley’s veteran artist Nazir Josh, also known as the ‘King of Comedy’ firmly believes in the power of laughter to uplift spirits and foster optimism in challenging circumstances. This celebrated comedian is advocating for the establishment of a local film industry in Kashmir, envisioning it as a catalyst for generating employment opportunities.
During a candid chat with Rising Kashmir, Josh emphasized the therapeutic effects of laughter, highlighting its ability to bring joy and positivity to individuals amidst adversity, disappointments, and losses. He remains hopeful that the development of a thriving film industry in Kashmir will not only entertain but also contribute significantly to addressing unemployment challenges in the region.
Josh is a versatile individual, serving as a scriptwriter, director, and actor,who rose to prominence as a household name in Kashmir during the 1990s. His leading roles in the drama serials ‘Jum German’ and ‘Ahaid Raza’ solidified his popularity, and to this day, people fondly remember his impactful performances.
Originally from the central Kashmir’s district of Budgam, Josh stands among the pioneers of artists in the Valley who gained recognition through their work in Doordarshan (DD Kashur) serials during the 1990s.
However, a significant shift occurred in 2014 when Doordarshan ceased its production of drama serials, dashing the long-held aspirations of artists. Josh expressed that the ongoing situation and crisis in Kashmir have taken a toll on artists, causing them to endure substantial challenges.
“Approximately 10,000 individuals were directly or indirectly associated with Doordarshan, and it dealt a blow to the aspirations of numerous young artists in Kashmir,” he said.
Josh says every state or region typically boasts its own film industry, yet Kashmir lacks a local one. He envisions that a local film industry would thrive in the Valley, given the strong inclination of the people toward Kashmiri entertainment.
Highlighting the dearth of entertainment alternatives in Kashmir, Josh points out the absence of cinemas, theaters, and even a singular TV station that was actively contributes to the entertainment landscape.
He expresses disappointment, noting that the existing TV station is silent on matters of entertainment and has failed to deliver meaningful content.
Reflecting on his past, Josh shared that his interest in acting blossomed during his school days. In the 1970s, he became a part of the National Theater Budgam, initiated by the Bashir Budgami group, to nurture his budding talent.
“At first, I was given serious roles, but as I matured, I transitioned into humorous roles in locally staged skits. This marked a pivotal moment in my life, prompting me to dedicate myself to honing new techniques,” he recalled.
In 1973, Josh reminisced about his participation in a state-level theater festival at Tagore Hall, Srinagar, organized by the Cultural Academy. The event featured artists from renowned theaters such as Rang Manch, Kala Kender, Asan, and Sangramal.
“At the festival, notable Indian dramas like ‘Waiting for Godot,’ ‘Konark,’ and ‘Shuturmurg’ (Ostrich Boys) were staged, alongside productions by Som Nath Sadhu and Pushkar Bhan,” he recalled. Josh’s group presented a humorous play, earning them a third position alongside two other distinguished theaters. The festival garnered appreciation from all quarters.
With the establishment of Doordarshan in 1973, Josh successfully cleared the audition, leading to small roles in routine dramas aired by the station. In 1977, the renowned producer Farooq Nazki returned to Kashmir after completing training in Germany.
Collaborating on the drama serial ‘Totma,’ they achieved significant popularity, airing 25 episodes that featured fewer dialogues and more action.
Again in 1985, Josh worked on a new concept’ Hazaar Dastaan’ and discussed the same with Bashir Budgami, who approved the idea and started its shooting.
“In this serial, Ahaid Raaz became the household name in Kashmir. It used to be aired on weekends and its main theme revolved around the politicians, bureaucrats who are exploiting the common masses.
He said it was a political satire drama and we used to criticize those who were at the helm of affairs and it gained more popularity among the people.
“That time Popular Pakistani crime investigation drama series, Andhera Ujala was aired PTV) but it lost its viewership in Kashmir because of the Hazaar Dastaan,” he said.
Later the popular serial was stopped by the interference of political leaders. The drama till that time had aired 52 episodes and it was aired again in 1987.
After the success of Hazaar Dastaan, Josh also appeared in Juma Jerman in 1989. From 1990’s till 2005, Josh worked day and night with DD Kashir with noted producers and directors.
Josh claims he introduced a rap song which has its base treatment in Ladishah, Mazaiya Chakri and other new concepts. “I have written more than 250 humorous songs which are still popular among the people”, he said.
Apart from these serials, the 65-year-old artist also worked in Raaz-e-Hunz, Hero no. 1, and Haput, Yes Lagi Tas Lagi Sarkari, and Adam. His popular stage plays include Zolan, Lol Opera, Haa’r Koker, Khalwat Shah, and Tim Gori Gayay.
About young artists performing on social media, he said most of the things are missing. Training is important for every artist; there is a need for a proper script and dialogue. Short composition, suspense, Punch, and other vital components, he said.
In 2021 also shared clips regarding Covid19 awareness and it was appreciated across Kashmir.
He has also bagged best actor award from Cultural Academy Kashmir, Kashmir Jhelum Art and other reputed organizations of valley.
In 2023, Josh was honored by Kalidas Theatre with an award of appreciation in “Best Comedy Actor” category at Tagore Hall Srinagar. He was conferred with Infotel Award 2023. Additionally, he received recognition from CEEO India (Cultural Educational and Environmental Organization) Budgam during a 2023 Drama Festival held in Srinagar.
Last year, the seasoned actor embarked on a four-month journey to the Islamic Republic of Iran. During his stay, Josh actively engaged in numerous cultural programs, poetic symposiums, and workshops.
“Throughout various locations in Iran, I received warm welcome from Kashmiri students and was introduced to numerous dignitaries. In recognition of his contributions, he was honored with a ‘Special Award’ at the University of Kirman,” he added.
Josh says even today, he finds it challenging to visit any picnic spot in Kashmir without people recalling the ‘Ahaid-Raaz’ character. Now, my son has started sharing my old videos on social media, giving rise to a fan following among the younger generation.
Regarding his future plans, the veteran comedian shared, “After witnessing the positive response on social media to my messages, I am planning to launch a 5-minute satirical program in the upcoming months. There are many projects in the pipeline and hope that people will enjoy this in 2024, he said.
Josh says the importance of training and hard work, stating, “Youth should invest in training themselves, focus on scripting, and sharpen their observational skills. A good script lays the foundation for producing quality dramas and movies.”
When asked about a message for the youth, Josh said that considering the plight of veteran artists in Kashmir, there seems to be limited scope unless the government takes concrete steps to establish a local film industry.
“With skilled producers and directors in Kashmir, the government could either utilize their expertise to set up a regional film industry or financially support them in creating movies in Kashmiri language. This could be a viable option,” he said.
Expressing hope, Josh said the establishment of a regional film industry could potentially generate employment for thousands of people. I hope the government considers and acts upon these ideas, he added.
