Master Kartar Chand: The Blind Music Prodigy from Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir
Srinagar: Hailing from the border district of Poonch in Jammu and Kashmir, Master Kartar Chand is making waves in the world of ‘Pahari’ music. Despite being born blind, he defied all odds and pursued his passion for music. His inspiring journey is a testament to the human spirit and the power of determination.
Every individual possesses unique abilities and characteristics that set them apart from others. For some, these qualities emerge from overcoming a disability or adversity. Master Kartar Chand is one such person who serves as an inspiration to us all. Born with blindness, he enrolled in Jammu’s sole school for the blind and later went on to obtain a degree in music.
Throughout his life, Kartar Chand has been an active participant in music competitions, garnering accolades in Jammu and Kashmir as well as Punjab. He is also renowned as a top radio artist. His melodious voice and talent have earned hundreds of his songs a place in the daily Pahari and Gujri programs of All India Radio FM Station Poonch, All India Radio Srinagar, Doordarshan Srinagar, and Doordarshan Jammu.
One of his songs, ‘Gadi i Rawalkot Mein Jasaan Ga, Uthah Busne Mahde Rishtedar Mil Keh Aasan Ga,’ gained immense popularity when the Poonch Rawalkot route between Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Jammu and Kashmir opened in 2005-06. Kartar Chand’s musical journey spans over fifty years, and his presence is a must at literary and cultural events in Rajouri and Poonch.
To contribute to the world of music and inspire young musicians, he established an organization called ‘Saraswati Sangeet Kala’ in Poonch. The organization continues to teach music to interested youth and has produced several singers and musicians under its banner.
Despite his success, Master Kartar Chand believes that there is room for further growth. He emphasizes the need for music to be introduced as a subject in schools across Poonch district, allowing the younger generation to cultivate their interest in this art form from a tender age. Additionally, he advocates for the establishment of a music institute to serve as a formal platform for aspiring musicians.
Master Kartar Chand’s contribution to Pahari music is commendable, as he has sung hundreds of folk songs that are cherished by the Pahari tribal community, particularly during marriage celebrations. He asserts that Pahari music has a distinct charm and should be promoted at the national level. He points out that even Bollywood films have incorporated Pahari music tunes, underscoring its widespread appeal.
Master Kartar Chand’s melodious voice has touched the hearts of millions, proving that talent knows no barriers. Despite his visual impairment, he continues to inspire through his music and serves as a beacon of hope and resilience.
Note: This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.
