Srinagar, Dec 26: Ayaan Sajad, a 13-year-old singing talent from Kashmir, expressed that receiving the esteemed Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2024 from President Droupadi Murmu felt surreal. He acknowledged that this honor comes with a significant responsibility.
The Bal Puraskar is the highest recognition awarded to children for remarkable achievements in various fields, including social service, innovation, sports, bravery, art, and academics.
Ayaan, a Sufi singer hailing from south Kashmir, was recognized for his heartfelt contributions to Kashmiri music.
Speaking with PTI via phone, Sajad shared his excitement and honor upon learning of his award.
“I was thrilled and honored. It felt unreal initially, but it became more real when I finally held the award,” he stated.
The young sensation, who traveled to Delhi with his parents to receive the award, mentioned that this recognition “carries a significant responsibility”.
“My family is very happy and proud,” he added.
Residing in Anantnag, Sajad gained popularity through his moving rendition of the Kashmiri song ‘Be Dard Dadi Chane’, originally composed by the Kashmiri poet Shamas Fakeer.
He began singing at a young age with small performances and stage events, officially launching his singing career with the song that brought him widespread acclaim.
“I started my professional journey almost four years ago with the ‘Be Dard’ song,” said the class 10 student.
He noted that along his path, he drew inspiration from independent artists in Kashmir.
“When I started singing professionally, I was inspired by independent musicians in Kashmir. Encountering them and their music motivated me,” the young artist reflected.
Sajad described singing as his passion, affirming that regardless of future career choices, it will always remain a part of him. However, he has yet to decide on a specific profession.
In addition to music, he is also keenly interested in sports, indulging in martial arts and playing basketball.
President Murmu presented the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar to 17 children on Thursday, celebrating their exceptional bravery and achievements in varied fields, including art, culture, sports, and innovation.
The president emphasized the importance of nurturing and recognizing young talents, stating, “Providing opportunities and acknowledging children’s talents is a vital part of our tradition. We must enhance this tradition to help every child reach their full potential,” she remarked.
The award honors extraordinary accomplishments across seven categories: art and culture, bravery, innovation, science and technology, social service, sports, and environment.
The awardees, consisting of seven boys and ten girls selected from 14 states and Union Territories, received a medal, certificate, and a booklet of citations.
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha congratulated Sajad for his achievement.
“Congratulations to Master Ayaan Sajad on receiving the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar from Hon’ble President Smt. Droupadi Murmu Ji. He is an exceptional singer. I wish Ayaan all the best in his future endeavors. May you inspire many more young people across J&K UT,” Sinha expressed in a post on X.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and National Conference (NC) President Farooq Abdullah also offered their heartfelt congratulations to Sajad.
“Recognizing his remarkable contributions to art and culture, Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah praised Ayaan’s achievement as a significant honor for Jammu and Kashmir. They expressed their hope that his dedication and talent will continue to motivate young minds across the region and beyond,” the NC communicated on X.
The party leaders reiterated their commitment to support and encourage the youth of JK in their pursuit of excellence in various domains.
“Warm greetings to 12-year-old Ayaan Sajad from Anantnag in south Kashmir, who was awarded the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar today by President Droupadi Murmu for his exceptional contributions in the Art and Culture category.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Ayaan’s parents as well for nurturing their child’s passion for singing and aiding him in achieving this significant milestone. The young boy’s melodious voice is truly enchanting. Wishing him immense success in the future!” expressed Apni Party president Altaf Bukhari on X.
Leave a Reply