Srinagar 08 Jan: Suhail Rashid, a young and dedicated Sufi singer from Wakura, Ganderbal, is emerging as one of the promising voices of Kashmiri Sufi music while strongly advocating for the academic growth of the Kashmiri language.
Suhail Rashid, who holds a Postgraduate degree in Kashmiri from the Central University, Ganderbal, has devoted nearly nine years of his life to learning Sufi music and traditional musical instruments. Out of these, he dedicated six years exclusively to mastering Sufi musical instruments and has been actively performing as a singer for the past three years. His soulful renditions of Kashmiri Sufi music and Qawwali have earned him recognition among music lovers and cultural circles.
Despite his deep commitment to the Kashmiri language and culture, Suhail Rashid expressed concern over the lack of higher academic opportunities in the field. “There is no PhD course available for the Kashmiri language, which could significantly boost our culture, language, traditions, and research,” he said. He further added that although he has a strong urge to pursue a PhD in Kashmiri, unfortunately, there is not a single opportunity available in central universities for doctoral studies in the language.
Suhail believes that introducing PhD programs in Kashmiri would not only encourage scholars but also help preserve and promote the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of Kashmir. According to him, academic support is essential to strengthen the roots of Kashmiri identity and pass it on to future generations.
Through his music and voice, Suhail Rashid continues to serve Kashmiri culture, blending devotion, tradition, and art, while hoping for institutional support that can give the Kashmiri language the academic recognition it truly deserves.
