Kashmiri girl breaks stereotypes to become modern 'ladishah'

A young girl from Srinagar who is regarded as "first woman ladisha of Kashmir" has been putting forth her socio-political opinions by way of practicing her traditional art which is believed to be followed by men only.

Srinagar: A young girl from Srinagar's Zadibal area, has shun all the stereotypes by taking up a male dominated Kashmir's traditional act 'Ladishah' as her hobby.

Syed Areej doesn't follow the traditional and unique look of the Ladishah but the lyrics and vocal presentation remain the same. Further, she is also known as modern Ladisha who portrays a satirical art which has peculiar rhythm coupled with sarcastic lyrics. The lyrics are most of the times a mix of opinion on current crisis in the community, mostly focused on socio-political issues.

Talking to ETV Bharat, Areej said, she first did Ladishah as a part of campaign for the revocation of Public Safety Act (PSA) and release of political prisoners. "I wanted to revive Kashmiri tradition and share my feelings, experiences with the people of Kashmir because I found solace in this art," she added.

She added that her family has always been supportive throughout her struggle and today she is regarded as the "first woman ladisha of Kashmir".

Areej came into highlight following her video demanding revocation of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) on Kashmiri journalists.

However, Areej explained that Ladisha was often regarded as the best mode of community communication. "There are no metaphors, no hidden agenda, it is just the information in a simple local kashmiri language" she explained.