What the death of a beloved Kashmir artist reveals about the state of performing arts in the Valley

On the morning of July 28, veteran Kashmiri actor Bashir Ahmad Bhat passed away at his modest home in Budgam district. Bhat, who was popularly known by his television name Bashir Kotur, or Bashir the pigeon, died of cancer. He was 53.

Using a unique blend of his voice and acting to enthrall Kashmiri audiences, Bhat was a regular at events, government functions and on television serials. Bhat had been performing since he was five and came from Budgam district’s Hanjigund village, known for its folk artists. His father was also an artist.

Bhat was versatile, said a senior Kashmiri producer who did not want to be identified. “He could sing, write, dance, act and even play musical instruments.”

Months before his death, Bhat had appeared on camera one last time – to appeal for help funding his treatment. It was his second bout of cancer.

Before his cancer diagnosis, the talented actor had been struggling to make a living for a while and had become a street vendor, selling shoes and shawls.

“He also worked as a tea seller,” said Bhat’s wife Shaheena Bashir, her eyes welling up. “I would tell him that I am not comfortable with such a talented person doing this kind of work; he...

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