Brings laurels to Kashmir
Suhail Khan
Srinagar, Jan 23 : A 13-year-old Rabab prodigy from Kreeri village in the north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, Ishfaq Hamid, has brought laurels to Kashmir by receiving the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar Award.
An official told Kashmir Despatch that the award was presented to him by President of India, Droupadi Murmu, at Vigyan Bhawan on Monday.
He said President Murmu presented the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar-2024 in six categories — art and culture (7), bravery (1), innovation (1), science and technology (1), social service (4), and sports (5).
The official said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with the award recipients today.
The official further added that, all the awardees will participate in the Republic Day parade on January 26, 2024.
Ishfaq Hamid is known for his exceptional Rabab playing and his efforts in promoting this traditional art globally. He has previously received recognition during the 13th Kashmir festival and Guru Nanak Dev ji’s 550th Prakash Parv. He was also honored with the Bhai Mardana National Award 2020 by NGO Sarhad.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha congratulated young maestro Ishfaq Hamid on winning the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar!
In a post on X, he wrote, “Your achievements in the field of art & culture have brought immense pride to J&K. May your success continue to inspire others to pursue their artistic passion.”
Meanwhile, DC Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, also extends heartiest congratulations to Ishfaq Hamid, a 13-year-old young achiever from the Baramulla District.
Suhail Khan is a filmmaker, content writer, and freelance journalist.
