“Some things are often challenging to express through conventional means,” Mujtaba Riyaz said. “You can’t always convey the depth of your emotions or make others feel precisely as you wish them to. That’s why I turned to poetry; I engage in melodic and poetic rap, aiming to strike a chord with people’s hearts. Instead of focusing on material possessions and what they desire in life, I found my passion in rap. My journey into rapping began with artists like Mobb Deep, but it truly ignited when I discovered M.C. Kash and witnessed his rap contributions in Kashmir.

“Taimur Baig is a legendary figure in the hip-hop scene, one of the most prominent names in Pakistani hip-hop. Many listeners from Kashmir, including many of my friends, appreciate his music. Personally, it was a significant achievement for me to collaborate with him and create a song together. This project had been in the works for the past three years, with the vibe, melody, and everything coming together. After Taimur Baig joined in, it was finally ready to be shared with the audience. I’m really pleased that this collaboration happened.”

It was in the streets of Kashmir, amid the shadows of conflict, that rapping found its way. Young voices, fueled by the desire to be heard, embraced the power of rap to express their emotions and experiences. Rapping became a form of storytelling, where words became swords to inspire change. This unique art form resonated with the hearts of the youth, who saw it as a means to find their voice amidst the chaos.

Challenges and being called ‘un-Islamic’

Singing in Kashmir is not without its challenges. Artists face the constant struggle to navigate a traditional environment, where self-expression can sometimes be met with resistance. In a conservative society, where female musicians faced challenges, a decade ago three talented girls embarked on a courageous journey. They united their passion for rock music, creating the band “Pragaash,” which translates to “from darkness to light.”

Pragaash took the stage by storm, captivating audiences with their unique blend of rock melodies infused with the essence of Kashmiri culture. But despite their talent, Pragaash faced opposition. Pragaash disbanded after Kashmir’s senior cleric or the grand Mufti called them “un-Islamic.”

“In Kashmir, there is a substantial amount of criticism directed towards rap artists, whether they are pursuing it as a hobby or on a commercial level. It’s a challenge that everyone here faces,” said Mohsin, a rapper from North Kashmir’s Baramulla district.

Much has changed since then. Rapping in Kashmir transcends barriers of religion, ethnicity and language, uniting the youth under the umbrella of music.

“I became interested in rapping as early as 1999. My interest in rapping has grown over time, and as for the response, I’m currently rapping within a close circle. However, I’ve received positive feedback from family and friends,” said Farhan Khan, another rapper from Baramulla district. “Rapping is particularly challenging in Kashmir, especially in the northern region, where opportunities are scarce. There is a lack of recording studios here, so we have to handle everything independently.”

This unique cultural exchange fosters a sense of understanding and harmony. The winds of change carry the voices of courageous women of Kashmir. In the heart of the old Srinagar city, where tradition and modernity intertwine, a captivating tale of resilience unfolds in the shape of the inspiring journey of Mehak Ashraf, known by her stage name, Enimi.

The 22-year-old rap sensation defies stereotypes and challenges norms through her music. At the age of 12, a song by Eminem sparked the fire within Mehak’s heart. Drawn to the power of rap, she began her journey into the world of rhythm, exploring the works of renowned artists like Nicki Minaj, Drake, and 50 Cent. As she delved deeper into rap, Mehak found her true calling in Eminem’s music.

“I’ve been writing songs and rapping since I was just 12 years old,” Mehak said. “At the age of 12, I used to watch YouTube on my sister’s phone. The next song that played on YouTube was by the American rapper Eminem, one of the biggest rappers in the world. I was greatly influenced by him. I began delving into this genre, wondering how he rapped so fast and what he was talking about. My curiosity led me to explore the art of fast rap, and I wanted to showcase my skills to my friends, proving that I could rap swiftly as well.”

With each verse, Mehak’s music becomes a beacon of hope, inspiring those who face societal expectations and limitations. Her rap melodies instill a sense of confidence and courage, encouraging them to embrace their own uniqueness. With every beat, Mehak challenges conventions, daring to go beyond the norm.

“I believe it should be commonplace for girls to pursue their passions, even though it’s perceived as somewhat unconventional in Kashmir,” she said. “This genre is relatively rare here, and whatever exists is male-dominated. Females often face opposition from their families, friends and society. Parents may express concerns — but if your passion is strong, and you’re determined to achieve something, you should never fear anyone and should step forward. There should be platforms in Kashmir, and people should come forward to provide support.”