Review  by Sadaket Malik

Bhalessa, Historically recognized as a paragna in the jagir of Maharaja Amar Singh, Bhalessa carries the legacy of Queen Bhalla of Raja Nagpal, who traversed these lands en route to Chamba. The Takri records and accounts of travelers like Frederick Drew bear evidence to the ethnic richness and the Pahari dwellers of this land besides the pahari linguistic Paradise as classified by Dr GA Grierson.   Today, with “Bhalessa Meri Jaan,” Raja Sarfaraz, Sonali Dogra, and Ishfaq Kawa have taken a monumental step toward preserving and showcasing the soul of Bhalessa through a heart-touching musical masterpiece.

“Bhalessa Meri Jaan” is more than a song; it is a cultural exercise and a timeless document that focuses on the natural beauty, ethnicity, and cross-cultural heritage of Bhalessa. Spearheaded by Raja Sarfaraz, a local artist, and writer, this project envisions preserving the essence of Bhalessa amidst the rapid modernization and evolving cultural landscapes. The song’s tagline, “A Saga of Brotherhood and Modesty,” focus on  the values of respect, tradition,  education, and religious harmony that define this land.

The song is a  multilingual masterpiece performed in four languages, representing the linguistic and cultural diversity of Bhalessa including Gojri and Pahari. The thematic framework revolves around the four seasons, with each language and melody celebrating the vibrancy of nature and the ethos of the region.

The music, composed by Ashh K, is an auditory delight, blending traditional instruments like the Rabab (played by Zubair) and the Flute (by Rakesh Ji). The soulful melodies are complemented by the evocative lyrics penned by Raja Sarfaraz, with contributions of Bhaderwahi lines from Ashaq Ali Ashaq. The harmonious interplay of music and lyrics paints a vivid picture of Bhalessa’s natural and cultural richness.

The song brings together a stellar team of artists and creatives. Renowned singers Ishfaq Kawa and Sonali Dogra lend their voices alongside local talents like Touqir Ali and Musa Choudhary, an orphan given his first break as an on-screen performer. Raja Sarfaraz himself contributes vocally, adding a personal touch to this labor of love.

The visual spectacle is captured through the lens of Pinku Chauhan, under the creative direction of Keshav Bhat. Costume designer Nargis Manzoor ensures authenticity in representing the region’s traditional attire. The impressive cast includes main leads Raja Sarfaraz and Sejal Sahu (of Star Plus fame), supported by dynamic performances from Muzamil, Simran, Ziva, Sehran, Aira, Sagar, and others.

The project pays homage to the legends of Bhalessa those individuals whose contributions to education, culture,  education, heritage, and development are immortalized in the areas history. Personalities such as Alhaj Gh. Qadir Gani Puri Sahib, Gh. Rasool Azad, Munshi Ram Chand, Badrinath Mangotra Sahib, Haji Gh. Rasool, Abdullah Khan (Talib) Bhalessvi, Ghulam Hussain Malik, Mohammed Shafi Mattoo, Abdul Rashid Sheikh, Gh Mustafa Batt, Din Mohd Rather, and many others are celebrated for their selfless sacrifices and enduring legacies.

Bhalessa’s  cultural movement initiated by us and other local fora in 2010, we  explored the untouched beauty, art and languages of the area. People there are simple, honest, caring, lovely and more importantly true to their culture including artistic tastes.  Among those I was introduced to during that period was Mr Raja Sarfaraz. I have known Raja Sarafarz, a  cultural enthusiast for more than two decades now.

He is not just the creative force behind “Bhalessa Meri Jaan” but also an accomplished author, actor, and filmmaker. His notable works include the book Tears of Kashmir, an exploration of peace and brotherhood in the kashmir valley, and his forthcoming book Apology to the Contemporary World. With acclaimed projects like “Ye Meri Kahani Hai Damini”, 92 Hours, and Salaam-i-Bhalessa under his belt, Sarfaraz continues to highlight the rich cultural heritage of his homeland.

“Bhalessa Meri Jaan” stands as a beacon for the unexplored beauty and cultural richness of Bhalessa. It is a clarion call to the government of Jammu and Kashmir to prioritize the preservation of Bhalessa’s ethno linguistic culture. Through its breathtaking visuals, melodious tunes, and profound themes, the song reminds us of the importance of safeguarding our roots for future generations.

This initiative not only highlights the potential of Bhalessa as a cultural and tourist destination but also inspires local youth to embrace their identity and contribute to its preservation.

The song beautifully weaves the threads of culture, and natural beauty  that resembles  with the essence of this lesser-explored paradise. Raja Sarfaraz, along with his team, has created a wonderful song that will echo in the hearts of Bhalessa’s people and beyond.

For those who wish to experience the soul of Bhalessa, this song serves as a heartfelt tribute and a call to action to preserve its legacy for generations to come.

(The writer is Author of the Books “Bhalessa Cultural History and heritage  and Cultural History of Valley of Chenab | Paharies of Doda Kishtwar and Ramban -An Anlytical Study)

BHALESSA MERI JAAN: A Tribute To Ethno Linguistic Culture Of Bhalessa