The program, devoted as a homage to famous playback vocalist Mohammed Rafi,included regional skills
Versus the tranquil background of Dal Lake, on Sunday night, popular vocalist Sonu Nigam enthralled numerous music fans at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC), sounding a relaxing note in a Valley bothered considering that the Pahalgam attack.
The outdoor show hosted by NDTV Good Times unfolded in a setting couple of might have thought of a years back– a serene Srinagar filled with music, applause, and no indications of the strikes or boycott calls that when eclipsed such occasions in the Valley.
The program, devoted as a homage to famous playback vocalist Mohammed Rafi,included regional skillsQazi Touqeer, winner of the 2005 Fame GurukulandRouhan Malik, who heated up the phase before Nigam’s electrifying efficiency. Nigam’s mellifluous voice and popular tunes developed a blissful environment, leaving the audience swaying and singing along.
“It has actually been an excellent experience to see my preferred vocalist carrying out reside in our city. I’m enjoyed see him here,” stated Mohammad Amir, a 27-year-old fan from Srinagar.
Ignoring discord
In the days leading up to the show, a social networks projectflowed online advisingindividuals to boycott the occasion. Some users mentioned Nigam’s2017 remarks requiring a restriction on speakers at spiritual locations, consisting of mosques, which had actually triggered debate at the time. Regardless of the online argument, the performance continued as set up with a considerable turnout at the location.
The show was the very first of its kind in Kashmir because 2013when prominent conductor Zubin Mehta carried out in the Mughal-era Shalimar GardenThat occasion, arranged by the German Embassy, had actually activated sharp opposition from separatist leaders. Hardline separatist Syed Ali Shah Geelani had actually then required a Valley-wide shutdown, calling the performance an effort to “legitimise Delhi’s guideline in Kashmir.” On the very same day, 4 individuals were eliminated in Shopianabout 55 km away, when security forces opened fire on them near a CRPF camp.
On the other hand, Nigam’s show unfolded in an environment of calm and was the very first such occasion after the Pahalgam attack, which left 26 individuals dead.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha stated the performance would assist promote tourist in J&K, keeping in mind that such occasions highlight the area’s cultural vibrancy and hospitality.
Released on October 26, 2025
