New Song “Exileam” Honours Kashmiri Pandit Resilience, Demands Justice
Bakaya Releases praises Athrot for preserving, promoting Language and culture in exile
Jammu, January 18, 2024: A poignant new song, “Exileam,” highlighting the plight and resilience of the Kashmiri Pandit community, was released today, generating widespread praise. The song, a collaboration between singer and lyricist Kanwal Peshin and the Athrot Foundation, was unveiled at a ceremony attended by prominent figures, including former Chief Secretary and political analyst Vijay Bakaya.
Bakaya lauded the Athrot Foundation for its dedication to preserving and promoting Kashmiri Pandit language and culture, particularly within the exiled community. He described the song as a “unique and praiseworthy effort,” emphasizing its emotional depth and artistic merit.
“Exileam,” a term coined by Peshin, poignantly captures the complexities of the community’s exile. The lyrics, penned by Peshin himself, beautifully depict the pain and suffering endured since the 1990 exodus, while simultaneously highlighting the community’s unwavering spirit. The song also underscores the critical need for justice and the prosecution of those responsible for the violence that forced the exodus.
The event, held on the Athrot YouTube Channel and The Modern Kashmiri Pandit Page, also featured M.K. Yogi, Apni Party Leader from Shangas Anantnag; Aditya Tickoo, filmmaker and CEO of Sabhar Cultural and Welfare Trust; and Muktesh Yogi, a young entrepreneur. Each speaker offered their support for the project and its powerful message.
M.K. Yogi described the song as “brilliantly conceived” and deserving of wide appreciation. He paid tribute to the victims of the 1990 exodus, referring to January 19th as a “Black Day” in history. The 35th anniversary of the Exodus Day falls on January 19th, 2025.
Prior to the song’s release, Bakaya was felicitated with a picture of the Martand Temple, presented by Aditya Tickoo. The song, composed by Rajesh Khar and recorded at Kongposh Studio, features Peshin’s powerful vocals. Its release marks a significant moment for the Kashmiri Pandit community as it prepares to commemorate the 35th anniversary of their displacement. The song’s release is intended to not only remember the past but also to galvanize a united call for justice and the preservation of their cultural heritage.
