"Harmonizing Dreams: Ziea Ul Aalam's Melodic Odyssey from Gurez to Glory"

Maleeha Majeed 

SRINAGAR: In a world where the strains of music often echo through family legacies, Ziea Ul Aalam's journey stands as a determination and an unyielding passion for his art. Hailing from the picturesque Gurez valley of Kashmir, Ziea's roots in music run deep, with his grandfather and father both being musicians. However, it was a path fraught with challenges, setbacks, and unwavering determination that led Ziea Ul Aalam to carve his own unique niche in the realm of Indian classical and contemporary music. 

Ziea performing on a stage with band. 

The young prodigy's life took an unexpected turn in 2009 when his father, a guiding light and a musical mentor, passed away. Struggling with grief and an uncertain future, the then 8-year-old Ziea was faced with a harsh reality - the lack of family support to pursue his musical dreams. The spectre of doubt cast by his family was rooted in concern, fearing that his talents may not flourish without his father's guidance. 

For two years following his father's demise, the notes of music were silenced in Ziea's life. But in 2011, an unquenchable fire ignited within him, compelling him to seek out a ‘guru’ who could help him realize his potential. With steely resolve, he left the comfort of his home, embarking on a journey to Delhi in search of knowledge and inspiration. 

Arriving in the bustling capital city, Ziea's musical odyssey began with an emphasis on instrumental mastery. He dedicated years to honing his skills with various instruments like the keyboard and harmonium. His pursuit of excellence led him back to his roots in Kashmir, where fate eventually led him to cross paths with Baber Mudacer, a renowned musician and singer. The two souls connected on a deeper level, recognising a shared passion and purpose in each other. 

Ziea is trained with several musical instruments.

Mudacer, with his discerning eye, saw beyond the instruments and recognized Ziea's latent vocal talents. It was under Mudacer's guidance that Ziea's journey took a new direction, steering him toward the realm of singing. Once again, Ziea went to Delhi, juggling his musical aspirations with the demands of daily life. Working in a school to sustain him, Ziea demonstrated an unrelenting determination to overcome obstacles and prove his worth. 

Ziea's struggle was not just against societal skepticism but also a battle within himself. He realized that to succeed, he needed to close the doors to distractions and external opinions, focusing solely on his own growth and satisfaction. His family and relatives remained dubious of his chosen path until his unwavering dedication began to speak louder than words. Slowly but surely, the doubters became believers, acknowledging the relentless effort he poured into his craft. 

Born in the secluded Gurez valley, Ziea's pursuit of Indian classical music was a unique choice. The valley, cut off from the world in his early years, lacked the avenues for his chosen discipline. Despite the absence of a classical music teacher nearby, Ziea's determination led him to Delhi's doors, where he sought out the knowledge he craved. 

Ziea rehearsing in open air.

As the years progressed, Ziea's hard work bore fruit. He contributed his musical prowess to numerous Kashmiri music videos, adding his signature touch to the cultural landscape. Not content with being just a musician, Ziea Ul Aalam took his destiny into his own hands, launching his own YouTube channel to showcase his compositions and arrangements. 

The year 2019 marked a significant milestone in his journey as Ziea's melodious voice resonated through the airwaves of All India Radio. Singing in the Sheena language, native to the Gurez valley, Ziea added yet another layer to his multifaceted musical persona. His vocal skills, now versatile in Urdu and Kashmiri singing, showcased his adaptability and dedication to mastering diverse styles. 

Today, Ziea Ul Aalam stands as an emblem of tenacity and passion, a musician who defied odds, crossed barriers, and overcame doubt to claim his rightful place in the world of music. His journey from Gurez's secluded valleys to the grand stages of self-expression is a tale that resonates with aspiring artists and dreamers alike. Through his story, Ziea teaches us that the pursuit of art is not merely a path, but a profound journey that shapes not only the artist but also the world around them. 

Ziea Ul Aalam's story is far from reaching its final crescendo. With every chord he strikes and note he sings, he continues pushing the boundaries of his capabilities. His journey is an ever-evolving symphony, where each chapter resonates with the soulful echoes of his determination, hard work, and the unbreakable bond he shares with music.