Prominent playback singer Sonu Nigam captivated thousands of fans on Sunday with a mesmerizing live performance at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC), beautifully located on the banks of Dal Lake in Srinagar. The concert, organized by NDTV Good Times, became one of the most memorable musical evenings Kashmir has witnessed in recent times.
Arriving in Srinagar a day prior, Sonu Nigam set the stage ablaze with his soulful voice and timeless Bollywood hits. The concert was not only a musical treat but also a heartfelt celebration of India’s musical heritage. Audiences cheered, sang along, and swayed to his melodious numbers that echoed through the serene surroundings of Dal Lake.
During the show, Sonu Nigam paid an emotional tribute to the legendary singer Mohammad Rafi, whose songs have inspired generations of artists. “Had Rafi Sahab been alive, it would have been his 100th anniversary in singing,” Nigam said, before performing several of Rafi’s classic songs that brought nostalgia and admiration among the crowd.
One of the most touching moments of the evening came when Sonu Nigam invited his father, Agam Kumar Nigam, to join him on stage. The duo performed together, creating a rare and beautiful father-son duet that moved the audience. Their chemistry, combined with deep respect for their craft, left fans in awe and appreciation.
Sonu later thanked the people of Kashmir and the event organizers for providing him with an opportunity to perform in the valley. “Performing in Kashmir is always special. The warmth and love of the audience make it truly unforgettable,” he said, smiling at the cheering crowd.
Sonu Nigam’s Respectful Gesture Wins Hearts
In a moment that won widespread praise, Sonu Nigam paused his concert when the Azaan was heard from a nearby mosque. His respectful gesture touched the audience deeply and reflected his humility and regard for diverse traditions. The crowd responded with applause, appreciating the singer’s thoughtfulness.
The concert also provided a major platform for local Kashmiri artists, highlighting the growing music culture in Jammu and Kashmir.
The opening act featured Qazi Touqeer, a Srinagar-based singer who rose to fame after winning the music reality show Fame Gurukul in 2005. Qazi delivered a heartfelt performance and later shared his emotional journey as an artist in Kashmir.
“I just wanted to perform on stage and had brought my own standee with me,” Qazi said, recalling his struggles. “When I carried that standee to express myself, someone asked if I was running for election. I told them, ‘Whoever wins, just respect the artist—that’s all.’”
Qazi expressed his deep gratitude to NDTV for giving him a long-awaited opportunity to perform in front of his home audience.
Another celebrated local artist, Rauhan Malik, a talented singer, composer, and producer, also graced the stage with his performance, adding Kashmiri flavor to the evening’s lineup.
LG Manoj Sinha Praises Event for Boosting Tourism
Earlier, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha applauded the initiative, stating that such events not only promote tourism in Jammu and Kashmir but also provide valuable exposure to local artists. He emphasized that musical events like these showcase the region’s cultural richness and help strengthen its identity as a peaceful and creative destination.
Sonu Nigam’s concert at SKICC wasn’t just an evening of music — it was a celebration of art, respect, and unity. With tributes to legends, emotional moments, and mesmerizing performances, the event left an indelible mark on everyone who attended.
As the lights dimmed over Dal Lake, one thing became clear — Kashmir’s musical spirit is alive and thriving, and artists like Sonu Nigam continue to bridge hearts through the universal language of music.
