SRINAGAR'S SINFONIC SOULS: Preserving Traditional Sufi Music on Cassette Tapes
In the bustling streets of Srinagar, Farooq Ahmad Shaksaaz presses a button on his 1970 Sharp cassette player. The machine crackles to life, filling his tailor shop with verses about divine love and separation from the beloved creator. This is Kashmir's Sufi music heritage, where cassettes are cherished for their unique listening experience and spiritual significance.
Legacy of Cassettes
Shaksaaz inherited his passion for local Sufi music from his grandfather, along with a collection of audio cassette tapes from the 1970s. He is part of a small community that believes cassettes are the best way to listen to and archive traditional music inspired by Muslim saints. Many people turn to these recordings for spiritual guidance or as an escape from the region's turmoil.
Enduring Appeal
Cassette players have carried the soul-stirring poetry of Sufi saints and the mystical melodies of Kashmiri instruments like the sarangi and santoor. Even today, families gather around tape players for traditional music gatherings. These events are often recorded on cassette tapes, a format that was widely used from the 1970s to the 1990s.
Unique Experience
Many Kashmiris say it's best to listen to Sufi music on cassettes, citing their smooth sound quality and tactile experience. The distinct sounds of each instrument are preserved in a way that digital recorders cannot replicate. Abdul Ahad, a carpet weaver, describes listening to spiritual guides as a sacred ritual.
Fading Tradition
As digital formats become increasingly popular, cassettes are becoming harder to find. Families have lost their tape players due to mechanical failures or struggle to preserve cherished collections. Some collectors digitize their recordings to safeguard them for future generations. Only a few shops in Srinagar sell tape recorders or blank tapes.
Keeping the Flame Alive
A handful of mechanics in the Kashmir Valley cater to dedicated Sufi music lovers, painstakingly restoring decades-old cassette players made by Japanese brands like Sharp and Kenwood. Mohammad Ashraf Matoo is one such mechanic, driven by a personal mission to preserve the legacy of cassette tapes.
Preserving Cultural Roots
Shaksaaz views his efforts as a way to remain connected to spiritual and cultural roots in an ever-modernizing world. For him and many others, cassettes are more than just music – they're a bridge to the past, a source of comfort, and a symbol of their community's resilience.
Reviving a Tradition
A small but dedicated community is keeping Kashmir's Sufi music alive on cassette tapes. These nostalgic recordings preserve the region's cultural heritage and offer a unique listening experience that transcends time. As the world rapidly digitalizes, it's heartening to see this tradition persist, ensuring that Kashmir's soulful melodies continue to resonate for generations to come.
Conclusion
The legacy of cassette tapes in Srinagar is a testament to the enduring power of music and community. As we navigate an increasingly digital world, it's essential to preserve these cultural roots and acknowledge the significance they hold. By keeping Kashmir's Sufi music alive on cassettes, we honor our heritage and ensure that its beauty continues to inspire and uplift us all.