Runa Laila and Her Only Kashmiri Song: A Timeless Classic

(Kashmir Rechords Exclusive)

Runa Laila, celebrated for her extraordinary talent and versatile voice, has left an indelible mark on the music scenes of Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan. Known for her extensive contributions to Bengali and Urdu music, Laila’s unique connection to Kashmir highlights her diverse musical repertoire.

A Memorable Visit to India

In the mid-1970s, under a cultural exchange programme Runa Laila visited India and chose to perform at All India Radio Mumbai and Radio Kashmir, Srinagar. During her April 1976 visit, she sang at Radio Kashmir Srinagar and at a public gathering in Srinagar City, organized by then Chief Minister Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah. Dr. Rafeeq Masoodi, a noted broadcaster, recalls her as a state guest, with Qaiser Qalandar and Pt. Bhajan Sopori likely aiding in the production and recording of Mahmood Gami’s song.

Captivating Performance in Kashmiri

Donning a traditional Kashmiri Pheran, Runa Laila flawlessly sang Mahmood Gami’s timeless song “Katu Chuuckh Nund Baane—Valo Ma Shok Myane.” Her confident and authentic performance was so perfect that it seemed as if she was a native Kashmiri.

Iconic Songs Across Languages

Runa Laila’s discography is vast and includes numerous iconic songs across various languages:

“Dama Dam Mast Qalandar”: A popular rendition of the classic Sufi song.

“Unki Nazron Se Mohabbat Ka Jo Paigham Mila”: A beautiful Hindi film song showcasing her versatility.

“Suno Suno Ye Duniya Walo“: A hit song from the 1980 film “Ghungroo” that cemented her status as a leading playback singer in Bollywood.

A Multilingual Prodigy

Runa Laila has sung in 17 languages, including Bengali, Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi, Sindhi, Gujarati, Pashto, Balochi, Arabic, Persian, Malay, Nepali, Japanese, Italian, Spanish, French, English and Kashmiri. Her songs often capture universal themes of love, longing, and spirituality, resonating deeply with audiences far and wide, including those in Kashmir.In India, she is the Dama dam girl, who almost posed a threat to some of  Indian singers.

Here are the complete lyrics of Mehmood Gami, which were sung by Rouna Laila in 1976 at Radio Kashmir Srinagar with apt confidence and clarity:-

• • Katyu chukh Nundh Bane

• • Walo Mashook Miyane

• • Mei Korui Na Chanai Chanai

• • Walo Mashook Miyane

• • Sharabik Pyaleh Bharyoo,

• • Gulaban MaaleKkaryo.

• • Pagah Ya Kael Maryo,

• • Walo Mashook Miyane.

• • Katyu chukh nundh bane

• • Walo Mashook Miyane

• • Bah Surat Chukh Cze Parii,Cze Shoobi Jaamai Zarri

• • Kamov TaweezeiKkareii,

• Walo Mashook Miyane.