The Story Behind Runa Laila’s Kashmiri Song!
(Kashmir Rechords Report)
Runa Laila, a celebrated singer of the subcontinent, is renowned for her extraordinary talent and versatility across genres and languages. While her contributions to Bengali, Urdu and Hindi music are widely acknowledged, her unique connection to Kashmir through a single, iconic Kashmiri song remains a fascinating chapter in her illustrious career.
In April 1976, as part of a cultural exchange programme, Runa Laila visited India and performed at All India Radio Mumbai and Radio Kashmir, Srinagar. Her visit to Srinagar included a public gathering organized by then Chief Minister Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, where she donned a traditional Kashmiri pheran and sang Mahmood Gami’s timeless composition, “Katyu Chuukh Nundh Bane—Walo Ma Shok Myane.”
This was her first and only Kashmiri song, brought to life under the guidance of the renowned Kashmiri composer Shri Tej Krishen Jalali. Jalali, who was entrusted with the song’s composition by the Secretary of the J&K Cultural Academy, M.Y. Taing, had meticulously taught Runa Laila the pronunciation and nuances of the Kashmiri lyrics during her stay at the J&K Circuit House. The song, performed live at the Tagore Hall in Srinagar before an enthralled audience, received resounding acclaim and was later recorded by Radio Kashmir for broader dissemination.
Lyrics of Mahmood Gami’s Song:
Katyu Chuukh Nundh Bane Walo Mashouk Myane Mei Korui Na Chanai Chanai Walo Mashouk Myane Sharabik Pyaleh Bharyoo Gulaban Maale Kkaryo Pagah Ya Kael Maryo Walo Mashouk Myane Bah Surat Chukh Cze Pari Cze Shoobi Jaamai Zarri Kamov Taweezei Kkareii Walo Mashouk Myane
Her confident and authentic rendition of this Kashmiri classic left the audience in awe, as if she were a native of the Valley. This rare performance highlights not only her linguistic adaptability but also her ability to connect with the cultural essence of the song.
Runa Laila’s Legacy in Music
Runa Laila’s illustrious career spans decades, with a repertoire that includes iconic songs such as “Dama Dam Mast Qalandar” and Hindi hits like “Unki Nazron Se Mohabbat” and “Suno Suno Ye Duniya Walo.” Singing in 17 languages, including Bengali, Urdu, Hindi and Kashmiri, she has seamlessly bridged cultural and linguistic divides with her melodious voice.
Her foray into Kashmiri music remains a testament to her versatility and dedication, further enriching the musical tapestry of the subcontinent.
