SRINAGAR: The Bulbul of Kashmiri music and art has fallen silent today. Ustad Ghulam Nabi Shah, famously known as Hamli Bulbul, who rendered more than three decades to the Information Department and took Kashmiri music to new heights nationally breathed his last today at his ancestral place Dangiwacha Rafiabad in  Baramulla.

An inborn talent who devoted his life promoting Kashmiri art and culture, Bulbul served the department in various capacities representing Kashmir folk and music on both national and international canvas, earning accolades for himself and the department, setting legacy for others to follow.

Bulbul captivated audiences for decades with his soulful voice, masterful command of the sarangi and signature 'glass' dance performances, where he balanced a glass of water on his head while executing intricate dance movements showcasing his exceptional skill and commitment to Kashmiri performing arts.

Bulbul was also renowned for his mastery of the traditional Kashmiri folk dance form known as Bacha Nagma. This vibrant and expressive dance involves young boys dressed as women, performing intricate footwork and spinning movements while singing Kashmiri ballads.

In 2011, Bulbul was honored with the prestigious Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah Award for his significant contributions to promoting Kashmiri Lok Sangeet (folk music). This accolade recognized his dedication to preserving and revitalizing the rich musical traditions of Kashmir. More than just a performer, he was a deeply respected personality whose humility and grace endeared him to generations.

Meanwhile, colleagues, fans and admirers have condoled the demise of Bulbul terming it a huge loss to local music and art. Several of his superiors and colleagues took to social media and described their association with him.

In this regard a condolence meeting was also held here under the chairmanship of Joint Director Information Kashmir, Syed Shahnawaz Bukhari  with  Deputy Director Information (PR), Ahsanul Haq Chishti, Cultural Officer Kashmir, Burhan Hussain and other officers and officials present.

The meeting recalled the contribution rendered by late Bulbul to the Department and the local art and music by its promotion at national and international levels. The participants paid glowing tributes to him while praying for eternal peace to the departed soul. Meanwhile Adbi Markaz Kamraz President, Muhammad Amin Bhat has also condoled the demise of Hamle Bulbul and termed it as a big loss to the local music and art.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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