Shahid Zahoor Mir, a 12-year-old boy from Budgam, Kashmir, has taken the internet by storm with his unique talent. His viral videos showcasing his immense skills in playing tumbaknari, a traditional Kashmiri musical instrument, have garnered widespread acclaim on social media since he was just 5 years old.
Hailing from Nadigam area of Budgam district in central Kashmir, Mir has created a buzz with a unique style of playing tumbaknari along with his soothing voice that is attracting accolades from everyone in his locality.
He is currently getting basic training from his father, Zahoor Ahmad Mir, who is a well-known folk singer from Budgam district and usually performs in government and other local functions.
Shahid who is associated with his father’s group, told Rising Kashmir that he was inspired by his father and aspires to become a successful singer
“I draw inspiration from my father and aspire to become a celebrated singer. I have performed in various states across India, including Kerala, Punjab, Karnataka, Assam, New Delhi, and Mumbai. The appreciation I received, especially in South India, was overwhelming,” he said.
As per his family, Shahid is doing well in his studies . He is currently studying in class 8th in Government Middle School Nadigam village and has secured 480 marks out of 500 this year.
“My father is helping me in learning the music and I want to become a successful artist of the Valley. Presently I am focused on my studies and later I will pursue my higher education in music as well, he said.
Shahid’s enthusiasm did not only win netizens over, but also caught the attention of hundreds of social media users, who had posted his video clips and praised his unique talent.
Zahoor, father of Shahid says a few years back, he along with his musical group was doing a rehearsal of a song that was to be performed at a local government function.
“Shahid was only 4 years old when he used to sit on my lap and practice playing tumbaknari which later sparked his interest in the music,” he said.
Over the past 3 years, Zahoor says, he has performed in most parts of India along with his son and at musical parties. People love to listen to him and enjoy his beats playing tumbaknari.
He said if an adult artist wants to learn tumbaknari beats, it will take him at least a year to get trained and struck fingertips to produce desired harmonious rhythm called as Chal Dab, Bangda Chall etc.
“This musical instrument is usually used by women folk at different merriment occasions like engagements, marriages, piercing ceremonies, etc,” Zahoor said.
He said tumbaknari holds a unique distinction and has been used for ages. The very sounds and beats produced by tumbaknari arouse the passion of the listeners to dance and sing to their highest pitch.”
Zahoor, who has earned the title Ustaad, in his circles says apart from tumbaknari, Shahid also sings and performs dances during the functions.
“He is good at studies as well and is appreciated by all. My earning has doubled with his participation. Now there are more orders and advance bookings,” he said.
Zahoor says he is planning to admit Shakir to music school in New Delhi so that he can pursue his career in the industry.
Except for Shahid, none among the siblings are interested in continuing music in future. Zahoor’s father was also a folk singer and had always believed that the family should continue its musical legacy.
“I will provide basic training to Shahid about Harmonium and other musical instruments. Supporting young artists in Kashmir is crucial for nurturing creativity and preserving cultural heritage,” Zahoor said.
He said the government should come forward and support budding talents and encourage them in their artistic pursuits. By investing in arts education, providing platforms for showcasing talent, and offering financial assistance, the government can empower the next generation of artists and enrich the cultural landscape of Kashmir, Zahoor added.
