From valley roots to global dreams: Mehmeet Syed’s inspiring musical journey

• Idrees Bukhtiyar
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• 25 Apr 2026

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‘Kashmiri singer credits family support, blends tradition with modern sound, eyes international stage’

Srinagar, Apr 25: Kashmiri singer Mehmeet Syed has said that her journey in music has been deeply rooted in family support, perseverance, and a strong cultural connection, even as she aspires to take Kashmiri music to global platforms.

In an interview with Rising Kashmir, Mehmeet said music has always been an integral part of her life. “Music is something that is within me. As I grew up, I realised that I am a musician and a singer,” she said.

She credited her mother as her first mentor. “My mother was a trained musician and singer, though she could not pursue it professionally and later became a general line teacher. She taught me the basics and has been my first trainer,” she said, adding that her early exposure to music came from home.

Recalling her childhood, Mehmeet who is in her forties said she initially sang only within the confines of her home. “People around me appreciated my voice. In school too, my teachers encouraged me to sing. I was shy initially, but gradually I overcame it. The support of my teachers, friends, and family helped me reach where I am today,” she said.

She also shared a close bond with her mother during her formative years. “We grew up like friends. When she went to college as a music student, I would accompany her and practice ragas alongside her,” she said.

Highlighting the importance of family backing, Mehmeet said her mother had to give up her singing aspirations due to lack of support.

“That is why I always say family support is crucial. Whatever I have achieved is because of my family,” she added.

Speaking about challenges, she said women often face multiple hurdles in their journey. “A woman has to go through many struggles, but I have become stronger with time. These experiences have made me a better person,” she said.

She also spoke about an early limitation in her career. “I couldn’t read or write Kashmiri when I started singing at the age of 15. I used to write lyrics in Roman script, but over time I improved and now I can read and write the language,” she said.

Despite pursuing music professionally, Mehmeet continued her education and completed three master’s degrees. She revealed that she had initially enrolled in a BDS course but later dropped it. “I wanted to continue, but my father advised me to focus on singing, saying there are many doctors but I should become a singer,” she said.

Mehmeet acknowledged the role of social media in her growth. “Earlier, it was all about hard work. Now, social media also plays a big role in reaching audiences,” she said, while expressing concern over online negativity. “People have become less tolerant and often write anything on social media. Sometimes artists from outside Kashmir receive more appreciation for Kashmiri songs,” she added.

On her musical style, she said she incorporates modern elements while preserving the essence of Kashmiri culture. “My music has a western touch, but I ensure the Kashmiri flavour remains intact. If using western instruments helps the youth connect with the language, then it is worth it,” she said.

Looking ahead, Mehmeet said she plans to move abroad to expand her reach. “I have received immense love from Kashmiris, but now I want to work on global platforms and take Kashmiri music to the world,” she said, adding that Kashmiri audiences across the globe respond warmly to her performances.

Addressing online trolling, she maintained a composed stance. “I believe those who troll are dealing with their own issues. I do not respond to them,” she said.

She also recalled a notable milestone in her career when filmmaker Subhash Ghai approached her for a project. “He wanted me to represent Kashmir in an election song. I sang the Kashmiri portion alongside renowned Bollywood singers,” she said.

Mehmeet added that she is currently working on several projects, with many more in the pipeline.