Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Feb 19: A renowned Kashmiri comedian, Bashir Ahmad Bhat alias Bashir Kotur has bid adieu to his artistic career in wake of lackadaisical approach by the government and is now earning his livelihood as auto rickshaw driver. He said that no steps have been taken for promotion of art and welfare of artists in the Valley.
Bashir Kotur, a resident of Wathoora in Chadoora hamlet of Central Kashmir’s Budgam district, has entertained people of J&K for years together but he has lost interest in it due to various reasons.
Speaking to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), an approved artist Bashir Kotur said that he was associated with the theatre up to 2002 and he has spent his whole childhood in theatre while working as an artist by playing different roles.
He said that people still know him for his work but the promotion of the art and artist wasn’t taken up for which both the artists and government are responsible. “Those who were associated with the theatre and trusted upon, used it for their own gains due to which real artists were neglected,” he said.
He said those who were on the forefront in standing theatres have been neglected while new people have been enjoying perks.
Bashir said that he has never visited Doordarshan in the last 10 years and is currently working as an auto driver to manage family expenses. He said that the government is aware about the work of artists but they have failed to take steps for their welfare.
“I am still part of one theatre but no longer interested in it as there isn’t any benefit in it and sometimes my family members ask me, what you have achieved in spending decades in theatre,” he said.
He said that the government has been claiming that they are taking steps for promotion of art and welfare of artists but the situation on ground is quite contrary, adding that he was doing different government and private programmes on a daily basis but has stopped it now.
In a heartfelt appeal, Kotur, who has received dozens of awards for his work, urged the government to provide more robust support for artists, emphasizing the necessity of financial and institutional backing to sustain cultural and artistic endeavors.
He highlighted the potential of social media platforms as valuable tools for artists to showcase their talent and reach wider audiences, especially in the absence of sufficient governmental support.
Bashir Ahmad called for comprehensive policies and initiatives to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of the region. If the government is really interested in keeping art and artist alive, they need to take immediate steps for it, said Kotur—(KNO)
