Sounds of Bliss: Visually Impaired Sarangi Player and Sufi Singer Uplifts Jammu and Kashmir with Melodic Joy

Aijaz Ahmad Ahangar, a visually impaired musician-singer from Kulgam district in Jammu and Kashmir, has become an inspiration to many with his exceptional talent. Despite being blind from birth and losing his mother during childhood, Aijaz's passion for music persevered. He is now a talented Sarangi player and a melodious Sufi singer. Aijaz's interest in music began at a young age when he attended a function where a local singer played musical instruments and sang traditional songs. A year later, the singer brought Aijaz a Sarangi and began teaching him how to play it. It took Aijaz six years to learn the instrument, but now he plays it like an expert. In addition to playing the Sarangi, Aijaz has composed 56 songs, primarily Sufi compositions, in the local language and sings them at various functions, including weddings and anniversaries of Sufi saints. Despite being illiterate and visually impaired, Aijaz has preserved his work with the help of compassionate individuals who write his compositions in black and white. Aijaz's exceptional talent has received acclaim from people who offer him performance opportunities. Although he does not earn much, Aijaz is satisfied that he is not dependent on others for alms and is living a respectable life. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.