Syed Areej from Srinagar, is widely known as the first female Ladishah, a form of satire creating awareness on socio-political issues in Kashmir.
Areej has gained immense popularity as she began writing and performing an art that has always been carried by men. Ladishah is done as a ballad with humour added to address current issues within society and Areej does a captivating job of carrying the legacy.
Her journey began when she saw Ladishah being broadcasted on a TV news channel on Sundays. She was intrigued by how social messages were conveyed in a light tone. The messages Ladishah gave were filled with humorous commentary on serious issues. Areej noticed this and wanted to try it for herself.
The young Ladishah took to YouTube nd began performing the act which got over with the youth. Her popularity soared as she kept the traditional Ladishah going without changing anything.
She said she was asked to introduce music, rap or such things to modernize the art. But Areej politely declined and stayed true to the roots of Kashmiri culture.
Soon she came to be known as first female Ladishah and received a positive response from the viewers. Her Ladishah topics range from social issues as caste discrimination, extravagance in marriage to political issues such as arrests and internet ban.
The female Ladishah has established herself well within social media ranks. Her videos are among the most watched on Kashmiri YouTube space.
Ever since her first video she has received immense support from various sections of society with people taking a liking to her satirical, humourous way of commentary on issues of concern in society.
Areej also believes that Ladishah goes a long way in upholding Kashmiri culture. She says she wants to preserve Kashmiri tradition and culture as much as she can. Stressing that this responsibility falls on the youth, she has been a source of encouragement for others.
The first female Ladishah has shown how culture and modernization go hand in hand. Areej is a testament that Kashmiris will remain attached to their heritage and continue to revive it through generations.
