My Paintings focus on love and peace: Saiqa Rashid Prominent Painteri

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My Paintings Focus on Love and Peace: Saiqa Rashid, Prominent painter

Saiqa Rashid is a human bestowed with multiple talents,  Assistant Engineer at Power Development Department (PDD) whose passion for art and calligraphy has blossomed into a remarkable journey of self-expression. She is well known artist from Kashmir known for her paintings of diverse nature and calligraphy art.
In an exclusive interview with the News Kashmir, She talks to Farzana Mumtaz and Rameez Makhdoomi.
Tell us bit about your academic journey ?
Academic journey was excellent as I was bright student and parents were also always stressing to focus on education.  But due to pressure of studies,  I could not give art much time. After marriage when my kids grew, I started to find touch with my skills of art. My near and dear including parents and husband after seeing my paintings and calligraphy work encouraged me to be more serious about art.
What is the focus of your paintings ?
My paintings are sufism based. I also focus on calligraphy. I have started painting world famous mosques and I am focusing also on more global landscapes to broaden my area of work .
The message of Sufism is universal love ,do you reflect same through your paintings?
Definitely when you follow the Sufi ideology the universal harmonious concepts like love and kindness flow from you within as human.
How many exhibitions you have displayed your art ?
I have here in Kashmir displayed my art in about 4 exhibitions and also at international level exhibitions at Ajmer, Rajasthan and Mumbai, Maharashtra.  My calligraphy and paintings were highly appreciated by national and international viewers. I was told that my paintings have touch of middle eastern art.
Do you paint about women sufferings?
No I don’t put women sufferings in my art. I focus on love and peace through my Sufi art. But, yes I have started to paint on the sufferings of children due to global conflicts and war , how it harms and hurts their childhood.
How is family support to your life in creativity and art ?
My family support is great especially my husband. He recently accompanied me to exhibition in Mumbai. He gives me great support to carry my painting journey.
What is the scope of paintings and calligraphy for youngsters?
What i have found from my own experience is that you can showcase your art in many exhibitions, but as far as monetary aspect is considered it is very weak and won’t fetch you much as career.
What are your future goals?
My future goals are to shine through my paintings and calligraphy.  I want to be remembered as remarkable artist. I am always in learning process and there is no end to learning till death.
Do you find there is dearth of Art Gallaries in Kashmir?
There is not just dearth but also absence of mega art galleries in Kashmir.  This is causing much handicap to the artists as far as showcasing their art is considered.
Your message to youngsters?
My message to youngsters take paintings,  calligraphy or any other art form as hobby but also be serious about studies to make good career.

We all are Indians First: Satnam Singh Sandhu, Founder IMF and Chandigarh University Chancellor

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We all are Indians First: Satnam Singh Sandhu, Founder IMF and Chandigarh University Chancellor

Chandigarh University Chancellor, Founder Indian Minorities Foundation Satnam Singh Sandhu is a personality of par excellence.
He is also an eminent edupreneur, philanthropist, and visionary leader who is driven by the tenets of truthful living and service to humanity and has adopted educa tion as his instrument to deliver equitable and affordable opportunities for all in the higher education landscape in India.
In an exclusive interview with News Kashmir,  he talks with Farzana Mumtaz and Rameez Makhdoomi.
Your take on works done for minorities in India in past one decade?
This Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has done exemplary things for minorities of India in the past nine years. The narrative being build especially in some countries to show minorities in an oppressed manner is completely false.  I have also written a book on it. The Government of esteemed Prime Minister Narendra Modi lead Government has done exemplary things for minorities of India.
What is your message to minorities?
The minorities of our country including Muslims, Sikhs, Parsis , Bahais, Christians,  Jewish, Buddhists , Jains etc are integral part of our country. This is our country . Hindus and Sikhs are like brothers. It is the part of dirty politics that has created divide . We have tradition wherein in one family one brother was Sikh and other Hindu.
Do you think that we need to redefine concept of minorities?
There is nothing like minorities and majorities. We are first Indians than anything else.  Both Muslims and Sikhs have risen to the top constitutional posts of the country. A Sikh has been Prime Minister,  President and Chief Justice. India is the best democracy of world when it comes to the status of minorities.
Do you think Minorities status of Sikhs in Jammu and Kashmir is a genuine demand?
Yes absolutely , the the Sikh community accounting for not more than 1.5 lakh of the total population, they deserve the status.
Your take on concerns of
Beadbi’ incidents among  Sikh community ?
Revered 10th Guru of Sikhs Guru Gobind Singh ji had affirmed the  Sikhs to  consider the Guru Granth Sahib to be a living Guru.
This unfortunate matter of Beadbi is an internal matter of Sikh community and it is our fundamental duty to protect and promote the sanctity of Holy Guru Granth Sahib. It is a not a matter of one religion versus another .
How successful was the recent mega event of Indian Minorities Foundation at SKICC Kashmir?
It was an event of spirtual and religious leaders.
We were pleased  by the overwhelming  response.
In his remarks, the  honorable Lt Governor Manoj Sinha ji  lauded the crucial role of Indian Minorities Foundation in empowering minorities, promoting Sufism and fostering brotherhood, peace and harmony as envisioned by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji.
Sufi Scholars and Religious leaders from different parts of the country also spoke on the occasion and shared their views on the collective role of every community in building a progressive society and realizing the vision of Developed India.
A large spectrum of society attended the event and the experience was heartening.
We will continue to have many such programs that build harmony and nationalism across country.

Baabarr Mudacer Music Star Interview

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Struggle and compromise key to success: Baabarr Mudacer, famous Singer and rapper

Mudasir Hassan known as Baabarr Mudacer (born in 1995) is an independent musician, singer and rapper from Bandipore, in union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, India . He is known for his charity works from music.
Baabarr Mudacer is emerging as sensational singing icon of Kashmir.
He possesses multiple talents like Singing, rapper and producer. In an exclusive interview with the News Kashmir,he talks to Farzana Mumtaz and Rameez Makhdoomi.

Tell us a bit about your early journey ?
My journey has been fascinating. I had love towards music and singing from childhood days and used to sing without fear on morning assembly of school, and teachers used to support a lot.
I see myself as bestowed by Almighty on every step of this journey.
So how did this journey translate into such success?
The immense support of my parents , friends, teachers along with my utmost dedication and hardwork helped me to reach here. I see myself as favourite toy of Almighty as my hardwork translated into success.
You link your music journey with lot of charity works ,a bit about that?
Yes, I love to do charity work. We all need to help each other and lift one another. If there are somethings that are with you and not with someone try to create balance and ease sufferings through charity works.
Lot of pain in this world ,how can music ease it?
The concept and perceptions vary from person to person. But, I feel in that music can give lot of happiness to those in need. So it has a major role in ending human pain.
You are often in traditional attire of Kashmir like Pehran, while performing, a bit on that?
I love my roots and deeply adore and love the traditions and culture of Kashmir, so often wear traditional attire and also deeply respect and promote Kashmiri language. We all should be proud of our land and its great culture.
How do you deal with criticism?
There are two types of criticism. One is positive or constructive criticism and another one is negative or destructive criticism. The constructive criticism aimed at correcting your flaws is welcome but destructive criticism based on nonsense things deserves no place.
Where do you bring this high energy from in your performances?
The love of my parents and fans keep me always in high spirits so this level of energy.
What is your message to those youngsters interested in music career ?
I would like to tell them that two things in life shape your career, one is going through immense struggles and second thing is compromise that is not arguing or complaining about everything.
Your debut was on poetry of legendary Habba Khatoon, do you want to perform more on sufi poets ?
Yes,that is right. As a rapper, singer and producer my schedule is often tight. I have a project in mind where we give voice to the heart touching poetry and thoughts of legends in our history. I want to do it on a formal platform so that it enthralls globe .
Since you are embarking on international music tours, what sort of songs are on your priority?
It all will depend upon the choice of audience, but yes performances in other countries in front of Kashmiri diaspora would be focused on Kashmiri songs .

What is your message ?
My message is stay happy, stay grounded and work hard to achieve your goals. Above all respect and love elders especially your parents.

Early detection and screening effective way to combat Breast Cancer: Dr. Shabnam Bashir

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Early detection and screening effective way to combat Breast Cancer: Dr. Shabnam Bashir
Dr. Shabnam Bashir is doctor of par excellence. Trained in Colorectal and Breast cancer surgeries & cytoreductive surgeries from Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai and in Robotic surgeries from USA.   She is currently practicing in  Kashmir and leading the breast cancer awareness related things in Jammu and Kashmir.
In an exclusive interview with News Kashmir, she talks to Farzana Mumtaz and Rameez Makhdoomi.
How was the response especially from the society towards your recent events on breast cancer awareness  been ?
This is such a effort that I wanted to do since long time. I hold basically two events Pinkathon, in October and Blueathon in March. The basic motive is to create awareness related to diverse aspects of breast cancer awareness. The response is quite good from public.
Do you believe that shyness with women with reference to breast issues is going?
This is a deep rooted issue and does not go easily. When I starred two years back the situation was tough and lot of taboos were there.  But with effective participation of youth the situation has improved.  We did event with music and Fine arts and there illustrations and art helped us. The need of the hour is to involve more educated youth as we are doing to end the taboos and inhibitions related to the breast cancer. I would again  and again reaffirm that early detection and screening is the burning need to combat effectively breast cancer.
How to detect breast cancer in male ?
98 to 99 percent breast cancer cases are in women and the rest are in men and transgender .  Due to specific genes or mutations related to them in some cases the breast cancer cases are found in men too and by going for screening it can be detected.
How far is breast cancer currently widespread in India?
This time due to changes in lifestyle and habits ovary cancer is the leading cancer among the women. The breast cancer threat is more common among urban women than in rural women in India .  First we used to have cervical cancer at top .Breast cancer is also increasing due to food adulteration and life style changes . According to credible studies , 1 out of 60  have risk and astonishingly 1 out of 20 urban women have risk of breast cancer.
Due to robust national programme focusing on screening and vaccination the cervical cancer has abated in women . Ovary and breast cancer are challenges for women especially from rapid urbanization,  poor diet and pollution.
How widespread is cancer in Kashmir?
We get cancer figures from the cancer registry. In States like Karnataka we have to notify cancer cases if we adopt same here  then only we can achieve correct figures on it.   Like we have had nodal officers working and notifying on Tuberculosis in Jammu and Kashmir.
No doubt the cancer is challenging disease among men and women. We need to rely on population registry to get figures.  In population registry few  years back we had oesophagus  cancer leading in Kashmir. The cancers like Lung, Colon, Breast are also leading here.
The need is to make good diet habits to avoid cancers especially avoid too much of non vegetarian, fast food and we have to avoid too much salt .
Many cancer experts believe that more vegetarian diet should be included as opposed to non vegetarian to escape from cancer?
Yes the too much of non vegetarian items in diet increase chances of different forms of cancer,  while as the vegetarian items like Tomatoes and potatoes have anticancer properties .
Lastly,  do you believe cancer treatment is back breaking for poor humans and there families?
There is no doubt that for poor people and their families  the disease is financially,  emotionally and physically draining both for them and there families.  If in the country early detection happens more frequently that can save poor people from lot of burdens.

Music Heals Wounds: Stia, Emerging American Music Star and

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Music Heals Wounds : Stia, Emerging American Music Star and Lyricist
Stia from United States of America ,California is a young and emerging music singer and song writer.  She is weaving fine vibes through her journey of excellence.
In an exclusive interview with news Kashmir she talks to Rameez Makhdoomi.
A bit about your childhood days?
I had a wonderful upbringing in Burbank, California. Music has been a significant part of my life since I was very young. I’ve always had a passion for singing and have been actively involved in show choirs, which allowed me to explore my vocal talents and stage presence. In fact, I began writing songs when I was just 13 years old, and that’s when I realized that music was not just a hobby but something I was truly passionate about. These early experiences in Burbank helped shape my love for music and set me on the path to where I am today.
A bit about your academic journey?
I recently completed my college education with a Bachelors Degree in Theater. My academic journey was a valuable experience that allowed me to explore the world of performing arts from a different angle. Studying theater gave me a deeper understanding of the art of storytelling and how it intertwines with music. This educational background has had a profound influence on my musical journey and my performances on stage.
A glimpse into your musical journey?
I’ve been on my musical journey professionally for about four years now. During this time, I’ve had the opportunity to grow as an artist and express myself through my music. This year, I’m particularly excited about the two singles I’ve released, “Soho House” and “I’ll Be There.” These songs are a reflection of my personal and artistic growth, and I can’t wait to see how they resonate with my audience. Last year, I performed my music at the halftime show at Crypto.com with over 6,000 fans in attendance.
Your role models in music?
Music has always been a diverse and eclectic part of my life, and I draw inspiration from a wide range of artists. Some of my biggest role models in music include Beyonce, The Weeknd, Tina Turner, and Janet Jackson, just to name a few. However, I firmly believe that inspiration can be found in any genre, and I’m open to exploring and incorporating different musical influences into my work.
You sing more romantic, is it your favorite genre?
Yes, I have a deep affection for R&B and Pop music, and these genres have played a significant role in shaping my style. As my career progresses, I’m eager to explore and experiment with different genres. I’m particularly interested in working with rap, reggaeton, and Latin music, as I have a cultural connection to Latin music due to my Mexican heritage. I believe that versatility is key to artistic growth.
What are your goals in your music career?
My ultimate goal in my music career is to become one of the biggest artists in the world and to share my music with a global audience. I aspire to create music that resonates with people from all walks of life and connects with their emotions. I want my music to inspire and touch the hearts of listeners worldwide.
Your hobbies?
When I’m not fully immersed in my music, I enjoy a variety of hobbies that help me recharge and stay creative. I’m an avid runner and find it to be a great way to clear my mind. I also have a passion for writing creative stories, which is a different form of self-expression for me. Photography is another hobby that allows me to capture moments and emotions. Additionally, I love hiking and immersing myself in nature. Lately, I’ve taken up cooking traditional Indian recipes like Butter Chicken, Tandoori, and Karaikudi Curry. I find cooking to be both a relaxing and delicious way to unwind.
What role do you see for music in our lives?
Music is a universal language that transcends cultural and personal boundaries. It has the power to evoke emotions, heal wounds, and bring people together. Given my unique personal story and life experiences, I believe my music has the potential to connect with people on a deep and meaningful level. I aim to offer a refreshing perspective in the music industry and provide an everyday soundtrack for people’s lives. Music is not just a form of entertainment; it’s a source of comfort, inspiration, and a way to relate to one another.
Your message?
My message to everyone is to be unapologetically yourself at all times. Embrace your uniqueness and express it with confidence. Life is too short to conform to someone else’s expectations or standards. Whether through my music or in life, I want to inspire others to be authentic and true to themselves. It’s in our individuality that we find our truest strength and beauty. So, my message is simple but powerful: be yourself, always! 🙂

Love All and Hate None: Haji Syed Salman Chishty 

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Love All and Hate None: Haji Syed Salman Chishty

Haji Syed Salman Chishty is an eminent religious figure of India. Syed Salman Chishty hails from the Chishty Sufi family of Ajmer Sharif, the Gaddi-Nashin (hereditary custodians) of the 11th century Sufi shrine of famous  Sufi Saint  Hazrat Khawaja Moinuddin Hassan Chishty. His work involves the research of Sufi traditions and their interaction with global cultures and traditions.
He is Chairman Chishty Foundation, India. This charity  organization works for welfare of humanity.
In an exclusive interview with the News Kashmir he talks to Farzana Mumtaz and Rameez Makhdoomi.
A bit about the conference on minority held in SKICC by Indian Minorities Foundation?
The Conference organized by Indian Minorities Foundation and  was attended by all sections of society especially in large numbers by youth of Kashmir. The aim was to promote sufi teachings and spirituality. The sufi ethos has always taken concern of the concerns of ideas of common people. The event has been historic and quite effective.
How would you define Khawaja Gareeb  Nawaz teachings for us ?
Khawaja Gareeb  Nawaz the philosophical core and kernel of teachings lie in love and harmony for all and advised humans to follow the true path of God by following these holy traits-  be loving like Sun, philanthropic like river, refreshing like earth .
Is our younger generation straying away from sufi teachings?
This is the day and age of digitalisation and everything has become accessible easily. Knowledge is just a one click away. We need to bear in mind that we don’t just need to fulfil the worldly path but also our spirtual path. The sufi teachings provide an individual spirtual path to nourish  his or her soul and everyone has soul be it young or old so in need of sufi teachings .
What role does Chisty Foundation play in betterment of society ?
Chisty Foundation is working in entire India and more than 100 countries to work for humanity and bridge gulf and gaps.
The Chisty Foundation is following the multipronged strategy of raising awareness on social evils ,helping youth in skill development and women empowerment. We are also closely linked on grassroots to promoting the much needed communal harmony and also in this regard work on interfaith harmony.
Does sectarianism among Muslim hurt you ?
Yes this is a very sad aspect and we all need to rise above the sectarianism, at the Darbar of Khawaja Gareeb Nawaz we give message of humanity and urge all to rise above sectarianism.
The voices among Muslim community in India calling for self introspection are rising. Your take?
Self introspection should be done everytime.  It should not be done as many  voices are rising for its favour.
 Every human should do it. The self introspection is integral part of spirituality.Unfortunately , in present times we are going away from tolerance and gratitude which are cornerstones of quality life and self introspection.
How deep did you find impact of sufi teachings on Kashmir?
Kashmir is known world over for being the abode of Sufis. We attended the Urs of Dastgeer Sahib at Khanyar recently and were in  Joy to witness more than 50000 people with full emotions and heart praying to God and following Sufi Path. Sufism and Tawsuf are integral parts of Kashmir.
Your message to Youth of Kashmir?
My message to the youth of Kashmir is love all and hate none.

Treat all buses as your own property: Showkat Ahmad, General Manager (Operations) JKRTC

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Treat all buses as your own property: Showkat Ahmad, General Manager (Operations) JKRTC
Showkat Ahmad is an administrative mind of parexcellence. He is General Manager (Operations) Srinagar of prestigious Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation.
In an exclusive interview with the News Kashmir, he talks to Farzana Mumtaz and Rameez Makhdoomi.
A bit about e bus journey of JKRTC?
Ministry of Heavy Industries  had stated this vision with erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir in the year 2018. 40 buses were alloted for Jammu and Kashmir, with 20 plying for  Jammu and 20 in Srinagar.
The buses were Commissioned in the year 2019 in the month of June , after tendering and subsequent  bagging of the contract by the Tata Motors.
When the vehicles first hit the road and Government provided  us with specific routes provided by Honorable chief secretary of that time. We were after sometime hit by maintainence issues. Tata motors were also new in this field of electric buses. The problems were compounded by harsh minus weather of Kashmir. With joint initiatives and research of Tata Motors and JKRTC solving the issues by apt research and thus as of today we in Kashmir have 17 plying buses and only 3 in  workshops. These 3 buses will hit the road soon. Tata research team was of great help .
What about the current position of routes ?
As far as the issue of routes are concerned, we have a bus plying to Budgam, Chadoora, Harwan, New Khanda. We also run periodically to areas like Hazratbal and Downtown from time to time as per the need . Although this is small fleet and can’t cater to whole Srinagar city,  but the next big thing in this mission we have on mind and for whose DIPR is done , we are hopeful that before coming Financial year starting in March we will get more buses that will cover entire city of Srinagar.
How do you see difficulty of evening transport in Srinagar during winters ?
The evening transport issue is directly monitored by the honorable Divisional Commissioner, and as per need we in evening give Soura, Harwan and chadoora buses. We run not just electric buses but diesel buses.
How much increase we would see in the bus fleet in coming times ?
We have given estimate of providing us at least 450 buses which would greatly augment our fleet and cover entire public transport realms outhere.
How has been feedback?
The occupancy of e buses is always full. There is sometimes criticism and we feel delighted with it and improve upon it. Overall the public feedback opinion is much positive and healthy for us.
Do you have cleaning team for buses ?
Yes we have all the teams in place for cleaning and maintaining the buses .
Any scope for seat quota for females?
We have specific number of seats in every bus for women. We also have been running specific women special buses on different routes .
Do we have modern fleet buses ?
We have all the buses – from  electric to diesel all the buses are  quite compact and modern. We are running comfortable deluxe buses within districts.
How far is JKRTC emerging from losses of several years ?
Yes it was an issue. From last march due to great and dynamic efforts of Managing Director and as  all the employees we are now not running in losses from more than one year.  The balance sheet speaks for it .
Your message to commuters ?
My message to commuters is treat all buses as your own property. Keep them neat and clean. If conductor is not giving tickets inform us. We are always open to your suggestions and solve your issues  as soon as possible .

Physical activity is important for half an hour: Dr Manit Arora

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Physical activity is important for half an
hour daily: Dr Manit Arora
Dr Manit Arora, Senior Consultant, Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Fortis Hospital Mohali, is a renowned name in the field of orthopaedics. Dr Arora is trained in orthopaedics, arthroscopy and sports medicine, and specialises in shoulder, hip, knee and sports-related injuries. In an exclusive interview with The News Kashmir, Dr Arora talks to Rameez Makhdoomi.
How has been your experience in Kashmir?
Kashmir is an awesome place. The people here are lovely, and the climate is superb. The cuisines of Kashmir are also world class. Overall, my experience has been terrific.
You were in Australia. What brought you back to India?
The initial years of my life and most of my education has been in Australia. I have also studied in Japan and the US. But I wanted to serve my country and returned home. It has been quite an enriching experience.
You have treated world-class sportspersons. What is your focus on?
My aim is to get injured sportsmen back on their feet in a limited time frame. I have treated several renowned sportspersons including Indian Hockey Team Vice-Captain and drag flick sensation, Harmanpreet Singh, and forward player Gurjant Singh for sports-related injuries prior to the Tokyo Olympics, 2020. Harmanpreet Singh was able to return to the game within six months.
What is your take on sedentary lifestyle being followed by many?
Sedentary lifestyle can be dangerous to one’s health and can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and obesity. Physical activity is important for at least half an hour daily. One should consume a balanced diet and ensure it has all nutrients. Only then can we ensure a strong body.
Kashmir witnesses harsh winters. How can people here maintain good orthopaedic health?
During extreme cold, people above 50 years of age should try to stay indoors. They should also undertake light exercise sessions. Winter can also flare up pain, so it is important to soak up the sun. Also, it is important to consume a healthy, balanced diet.
Accidental injuries of grim nature are hampering many. What is your take on that?
In case of accident cases, the first line of treatment is quite critical as it ensures swift recovery. We had two patients from Kashmir who required external fixators and we got that done. Coordination among doctors is also important to ensure swift recovery of injuries in accident cases.

I am passionate about traveling: Preeti Chopra

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I am passionate about traveling: Preeti Chopra
Preeti Chopra is a well known traveler, known for exploring different parts of world especially India. She is a dynamic intellect.
In an exclusive interview with News Kashmir  she talks with Rameez Makhdoomi.
A bit about your early life?
I grew up in a typical middle class Punjabi family in Delhi, where both of my parents were government employees so you can pretty much imagine my childhood, it was restricted conservative(too an extent) and very very disciplined. The good thing is that it instilled very strong ethics and values in me and shaped my character. I don’t meet a lot of people like me and I stand my ground because of my parents upbringing. Having said that , there was a lot of pressure of getting into a good government post and very high expectations from me since I was a scholar as a kid. Apparently my story flipped totally, and breaking from my family patterns has been, still is the biggest battle and struggle of my life.
A bit about your academic life?
I was definitely a nerd growing up, obsessed with scoring the highest marks, topping the class and sections , I was the class monitor, captain head and cultural head girl , teachers favourite. Always into books and finishing the syllabus before session even started. Everything changed after 10th grade. My perspective changed on academics. I opted for commerce but pursued my graduation in arts and then a diploma in special education and master’s in psychology. Out of all, I realised psychology came very naturally to me. But I haven’t pursued any career out of it yet.
Tell us about your travelling zeal ?
I am very very passionate about traveling. I am more of an explorer. I have domestically travelled quite a lot. I love India. I’m not saying this because I’m Indian but because you go to a different state, it’s a different world, you can dress differently, food is different. It’s so rich in culture. I have been from Jammu and Kashmir to Karnataka, to Gujarat to Kolkata, Rajasthan, Goa, Varanasi, Tripura, Himachal, uttrakhand, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Agra, and many other smaller cities.
Your inspiration?
 I derive my inspiration from various sources, people around me , stories books, movies. Very few times from a celebrity. But I have been the biggest fan of Princess Diana and Sadguru.
What are your professional fortes?
Dancing, acting and Theatre. I am also a public speaking and creative writing trainer. But performing arts fuel me the most.
Your message to humanity?
Stop Delaying things on Tomorrow and Being Kind. Procrastination is a theif of joy. Do whatever you have to do now, with or without someone else. I took my first solo trip after an accident. If it had been tragic, I would have regretted plans I made for future. Tomorrow isn’t promise so take the trip, enroll yourself in the course, pursue the hobby you always wanted and apply for that job. Don’t fear failure. Failure is only a feedback. And be kind while you do all this. Don’t screw people over. We need compassion for others , and most importantly for ourselves.

Write From Your Soul: Vikram Singh

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Write From Your Soul: Vikram Singh, Globally acclaimed author
Vikram Singh , who hails from Jammu, is a an author of Par excellence . He has been a banker, and an enthusiastic traveller and loves to write with full zeal and zest.
He has shined in corporate world and is today among the top emerging authors of India. His book “Mystery of the Urban Monks” garnered world fame and gained  much rave reviews.
In an exclusive interview with the News Kashmir Magazine,  Vikram Singh talks to Rameez Makhdoomi and Farzana Mumtaz.
A bit about your early days?
I belong to J&K and have spent my childhood days in Jammu. It was only after my graduation that I moved out to pursue my MBA.
How was academic life like?
I was good in studies and keeping a good company was always on top of my mind. From primary school till completing 2 MBA courses, I have enjoyed every bit of my student life.
On your corporate journey?
I have been fortunate to have a promising career. Have worked as a Director in HDFC Bank and L&T Finance until 2019 when I hung up my shoes to start my entrepreneurial journey and devote more time to writing. I was good with numbers and have always been a banker at heart which has always held me in good stead.
What prompted you to the world of writing?
I have always been an astute observer, a seeker, and a traveller. All these traits helped me a lot in my writing. Writing gave me the much-needed break from the stressful corporate life and after winning the “Yes I Write” short story contest for corporate employees in 2018 I found my mojo. There has been no looking back ever since.
What Made mystery of the Urban Monks a hit?
I poured all my heart in my debut novel “Mystery of the urban monks”. The theme of friendship and the mystery element seems to have resonated with the readers. I wrote it from the soul and thankfully it has worked for me. I can’t thank enough the readers community and everyone who have been a part of my writing journey.
A bit on your upcoming works?
My 2nd fiction novel with Srishti Publishers will be launched in September. Please watch this space for more details.
Favourite author?
There are many. But Jon Krakueur, Mohsin Hamid & Peter Mayle have inspired me a lot.
Favourite books?
Into the Wild, The Reluctant Fundamentalist, A year in Provence and The Alchemist to name a few.
Your three main hobbies?
Traveling, reading, and writing.
Your take on scope of writing in India?
It is a good question and I am glad that you asked it. Today, the genre of fiction writing has tremendous scope. Thanks to writers like Chetan Bhagat and Amish Tripathi for creating a huge English readership and encouraging new writers. This is a wonderful time to be a writer.
What is your message to young writers?
Be original, read a lot, write from your soul and do not be afraid of rejections, they are a part of the learning curve. Last but not the least write regularly.