Onlykashmir.in News Desk
The four-day talent hunt programme Kashmir Got Talent has concluded in Kupwara with a grand finale, drawing thousands of young participants from different parts of the region.
The event gave aspiring artists a platform to showcase their abilities in dance, singing and rap performances. Participants from across North Kashmir displayed their talent, creativity and confidence during the programme.
The finale was attended by renowned Bollywood singer Kumar Sanu, the GOC of 28 Infantry Division, Kupwara, the Deputy Commissioner of Kupwara, Bollywood personality Harman Baweja and prominent Kashmiri figures, including Ishfaq Kawa, Nazir Josh and Qayoom Badshah.
As part of the talent recognition initiative, the winner was awarded a cash prize of ₹1 lakh, while the runner-up received ₹50,000. The participation of prominent personalities from Bollywood and Kashmir added to the occasion and encouraged the young performers to pursue their aspirations and showcase their abilities on larger platforms.
The successful conclusion of Kashmir Got Talent marked an effort to promote local talent, encourage creativity and offer aspiring artists, particularly those from remote areas of North Kashmir, an opportunity to gain recognition. The event concluded with a celebration of the talent, passion and aspirations of Kashmiri youth.
Platforms of this kind matter in a region where young artists often lack access to stages, trainers and audiences. Remote areas of Kupwara and neighbouring districts have a rich tradition of folk music and performance, but opportunities to be seen and heard beyond the locality are limited. A competition that attracts thousands of participants indicates how much untapped interest there is among the youth, and how strongly they respond when such opportunities are provided.
The presence of the Army’s divisional commander and the district administration alongside film and music personalities points to the cooperation between different agencies in organising events for young people. Community engagement initiatives involving the armed forces have become a regular feature in North Kashmir, with a focus on sports, cultural activities and skill development as ways of connecting with the youth.
The inclusion of rap alongside dance and singing also reflects changing tastes among young Kashmiris, many of whom have taken up the genre to express themselves. Organisers and guests encouraged participants not to be discouraged by the competition and to keep working on their craft, since the cash awards and recognition are meant to be only the beginning for those who take up the arts seriously. The statement did not name the winner or runner-up.
