Srinagar,January 10, 2026 :- The Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, in collaboration with the National Society for Human Welfare, organised a special music-based tribute programme at Tagore Hall, Srinagar, in memory of renowned Kashmiri singer and eminent musical personality, late Abdul Rashid Farash. The event was titled “Echoes of a Timeless Voice”, celebrating the legendary voice and invaluable contributions of Abdul Rashid Farash to Kashmiri music.
During the programme, emerging singers from the Valley presented selected and memorable songs originally sung by the late artist. Aqib Asad, Abid Ali, Mohsin Dilshad, Nazir Ahmad Wani, Mir Shakeel, Bilal Ahmad Jan, Mir Dawood and Iqbal Hussain performed Farash’s iconic songs and received warm appreciation from the audience.
Former Deputy Director General of All India Radio and noted writer Bashir Arif attended the programme as Chief Guest, while Naseer Mahmood Khan (JKAS), Joint Director, RDD Kashmir, was present as Guest of Honour. Other distinguished guests included Tariq Ahmad Rishi (JKAS), ACD Srinagar, Parvez Ahmad Sheikh (JKAS), Inspector General of Police Shayista Mughal, Senior Producer IMRC, University of Kashmir Tariq Khawar, Assistant Professor Irshad Ahmad Butt, noted writer Bashir Dada, Principal Government Higher Secondary School Kothi Bagh Dr. Sameena Wani, Programme Executive AIR Srinagar Ghulam Rasool Akhoon, Head of News AIR Srinagar Tariq Ahmad Rathar, former Programme Executive AIR Srinagar Syed Humayun Qaiser, and senior journalist Imdad Saqi.
At the outset, Additional Secretary of the Cultural Academy Ideel Saleem welcomed the guests and participants and stated that the Jammu and Kashmir Cultural Academy remains committed to the preservation and promotion of Kashmiri language, literature and music. He said that artists like Abdul Rashid Farash are invaluable assets of Kashmiri music and that it is a collective responsibility to preserve their legacy and pass it on to future generations. He added that programmes like “Echoes of a Timeless Voice” not only pay tribute to legendary artists but also ensure the continuity and survival of Kashmiri musical heritage.
Speaking on the occasion, Bashir Arif, renowned singer Qaiser Nizami, Muneer Ahmad Mir, broadcaster Ashfaq Ahmad Lone and Ghulam Rasool Akhoon shared their thoughts on the life and artistic journey of Abdul Rashid Farash, recalling his immense contribution to the promotion of Kashmiri music.
The speakers emphasised that his soulful voice continues to live on in the hearts of music lovers.
Daughter of the late artist and well-known anchor Aneeka Farash expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Cultural Academy, organisers and all participating singers. She said her father devoted his entire life to the service of Kashmiri music and described the programme as an emotional and proud moment for the family. She added that the love and respect shown by the artists while performing her father’s songs clearly reflects that Abdul Rashid Farash’s voice and legacy remain alive.
The programme was conducted by noted broadcaster and writer Rashid Nizami.
A large number of music lovers attended the event, and emerging singers and artists were felicitated with honours on the occasion.
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