Srinagar- Kashmir's musical soul will once again take centre stage as Fankar-E-Kashmir Season 3 unfolds at Tagore Hall in Srinagar Friday evening.

The cultural event, according to organisers, is a celebration of the Valley's folk and Sufiana heritage which will bring together young talent, veteran musicians, and art enthusiasts for an evening dedicated to preserving and promoting Kashmir's rich musical traditions.

The event is jointly organised by the Kashmir Rabab Academy, ShowCase Events, and The Eagle.

“This year's edition promises a powerful blend of performances, conversations, and recognition for artistic excellence”, organisers said in a statement.

“What began as an experimental initiative in 2023 has now grown into a movement - a mission to safeguard Kashmir's intangible cultural heritage while creating opportunities for the next generation of artists”, the statement added.

The highlight of the programme will be the Live Talent Hunt Contest, where some of the Valley's most promising young performers will compete before an esteemed jury of musicians and cultural icons. The event also features interactive talk sessions with industry veterans, offering participants insights into building careers in music and preserving local art forms.

The festival will also felicitate four veterans of Kashmiri music - Begum Jaan, Abdul Rashid Hafiz, Rashid Jahangir, and Ustaad Samadju Sofi - honouring their lifelong contributions to the Valley's musical heritage.

“Folk music is very close to my heart, and I want to be able to do whatever I can to help keep it alive,” said Nanni Singh, CEO of ShowCase Events, who has been instrumental in promoting folk traditions through various national platforms.

“Being a Kashmiri and a musician, I feel deeply for our dying art. Fankar-E-Kashmir is my way of giving back,” said Nazir Ganaie, senior journalist and founder of the Kashmir Rabab Academy.

“My curiosity for Kashmiri talent brought me in - and now, I'm all in,” added Angelina Fernandes, founder of The Eagle, highlighting the festival's growing reach and its efforts to connect Kashmir's music with the global community.

“Our goal is to ensure that the Rabab - the heart of Kashmiri music - never falls silent again. Fankar-E-Kashmir is about continuity, collaboration, and cultural pride,” the organizers said.

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