Suhail Khan
Srinagar, Aug 31 : A cinematic tribute to legendary artist Raj Begum, the woman who gave Kashmir its voice, has taken the internet by storm.
Since its release, it has sparked intense nostalgia online, as new generations discover her timeless and deeply resonant music.
Among the film’s tracks, “Dil Tsooran” has become a major hit, trending across social media platforms, particularly on Instagram and Facebook.
Streaming on Prime Video, “Songs of Paradise” is both an ode to Raj Begum’s inspiring legacy and a celebration of Kashmiri art, which has preserved its authentic essence despite the onslaught of modernity, the production house revealed earlier this week to The Web Story/The Varmul Post.
Since its release on Friday, the film’s music has garnered widespread acclaim from audiences, especially across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
The public has praised the debutant singer Masrat Un Nisa, whose voice has become an instant sensation.
The production has been met with an overwhelmingly positive public response, with many commending the efforts of all the artists involved in the film.
“Songs of Paradise” has captured hearts with its powerful storytelling. The music, beautifully recreated by another Kashmiri musical talent, has been widely praised by viewers across the Union Territory.
“We’ve been waiting to hear our own valleys echoed in such a grand way. The music doesn’t just play; it transports you. It’s a beautiful blend of modern melody and the soul of Kashmir. Masrat Un Nisa isn’t just a new voice; she is the voice we recognize as our own, finally on the national stage,” said Khurshid Ahmad, who works in the music industry in Bangalore.
“The soundtrack has achieved a rare feat—it has become the cultural heartbeat of the region overnight. It transcends mere background scoring and has embedded itself into daily life here. It’s playing with the same old fervor not only on social media but also in cars and buses; its memory is refreshed, and it’s being played everywhere. It’s more than acclaim; it’s adoption,” said Shabir Ahmad, a local shopkeeper in the summer capital city, who was listening to the track when he spoke with The Web Story/The Varmul Post correspondent.
“I’ve had the song on repeat since Friday! Masrat Un Nisa’s voice is pure magic—it’s both powerful and haunting. The fact that she’s from Jammu and Kashmir makes it even more special. She’s an inspiration, showing that our talent can shine on the biggest platforms,” said Amir, an entrepreneur from North Kashmir’s Sopore.
“There is a pain and a hope in her voice that speaks to our generation. It reminds me of the old folk songs my mother would sing, but with a new energy. It’s not just a performance; it feels like a story being told,” Firdous, a photojournalist based in Kashmir, shared with The Web Story/The Varmul Post.
“The composition is brilliant, but it’s the choice of vocalist that is truly masterful. Masrat Un Nisa has a raw, untouched quality to her voice that you cannot teach. Her debut is one of the most authentic and captivating we’ve heard in years. She hasn’t just entered the industry; she has made her mark,” said Rouham Malik, a musician based in Kashmir. He even shared his praise on his social media platform.
Tariq Ahmad, a music teacher in Baramulla, said, “This is a monumental moment for local artists. For my students to see someone from our own community achieve such immediate and widespread recognition is incredibly motivating. It proves that with talent and opportunity, the world is listening.”
The project is a collaborative effort from Excel Entertainment, Apple Tree Pictures Production, and Renzu Films. It is helmed by acclaimed director Danish Renzu (Half Widow, The Illegal), who brings a deeply personal vision to the project.
Actresses Saba Azad and Soni Razdan portray the lead character, Noor Begum, across different epochs of her life. They are supported by a powerful ensemble cast including Zain Khan Durrani, Sheeba Chaddha, Taaruk Raina, and Lillete Dubey.
