Srinagar, August 1:
Ubaid Ahmad, a 22-year-old musician from Habba Kadal, founded Malang in 2020 with a simple dream—to take Kashmiri music to the global stage.
That dream, born in the heart of Srinagar, has since evolved into a powerful musical movement. With six talented members, Malang has performed across major Indian cities, gaining recognition for blending traditional Kashmiri sounds with contemporary styles.
In just five years, Malang has carved a niche in the Indian independent music scene, performing in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, and Kashmir.
Fusing traditional Kashmiri instruments and lyrics with contemporary arrangements, the band has reimagined age-old folk tunes for modern ears.
Ubaid Ahmad, the founder and lead vocalist, describes the band’s journey as “rooted in identity, driven by passion.” “We want the world to hear the soul of Kashmir—not just through its politics, but through its music, love, and poetry,” says Ubaid, whose musical upbringing in Habba Kadal inspired the foundation of Malang.
The band comprises six talented artists, each bringing a unique flavor to the mix—combining classical Kashmiri elements with modern rock, Sufi, and electronic influences. From soulful renditions of wanwun to original compositions that reflect the contemporary Kashmiri experience, Malang is building cultural bridges through melody.
Their growing popularity has led to invitations for corporate shows and music festivals, helping them reach diverse audiences outside the Valley. The band says the response has been overwhelmingly positive, with listeners from across India finding emotional resonance in the music—even when they don’t understand the language.
Looking ahead, Malang has set its sights beyond India, with plans in the pipeline to collaborate with global artists and perform on international stages.
“We’re not just a band. We’re a voice for a land that has too often been silenced. And we want that voice to sing, loud and free, across the world,” Ubaid says.
As Kashmir continues to evolve, so does its music—Malang stands as a testament to the Valley’s undying spirit, creativity, and hope.
