In a remarkable display of cultural harmony, Syed Zehra Batool, a Muslim college student from Jammu and Kashmir’s Baramulla district, has garnered widespread acclaim for her rendition of a Ram bhajan in the Pahadi language. The soul-stirring composition has rapidly gained popularity on the internet, coinciding with the increasing fervor surrounding the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
Speaking to the media, Batool shared her inspiration, stating, “I wrote a Ram bhajan in the Pahadi language recently, which became viral on the internet. I believe that as the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple is nearing in Ayodhya, we, the people of Jammu and Kashmir, should also contribute to it.”
Highlighting the inclusive nature of the region, she praised the local administration, saying,
“Our LG is a Hindu, but he does not discriminate against us based on religion while carrying out development work. Our Prime Minister even keeps Kashmiris in the top priority list. Our Imam Hussain has also taught us that the followers of the Prophet love the country in which they live. Loving one’s country is part of being faithful.”
Addressing potential questions about her religious choice, Batool affirmed, “Singing a Hindu god song doesn’t mean I will convert to the Hindu religion. Many Hindu writers have written books on Islam.”
Elaborating on her creative process, she shared, “I came across a Hindi bhajan by Jubin Nautiyal on YouTube. I sang it in Hindi first and felt good about it. Then I thought of singing it in my Pahari language. I translated it, used various resources to write this four-line bhajan, and posted it online.”
As Ayodhya prepares for the consecration of the Ram Temple on January 22, with a week-long series of rituals preceding the event, the ceremony is set to attract dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, renowned cricketers, celebrities, and industrialists. Batool’s musical contribution stands as a testament to the cultural diversity and unity prevailing in India.