QAZI VISITED THE J&K GOVERNOR--NEW!!--

JAMMU, NOVEMBER 22- Gurukul fame, Indian idol, Qazi Tauqeer called on Governor Lt. Gen. (Retd) S K Sinha at Raj Bhavan this morning and got blessings and good wishes in his chosen career of music.

'Kashmir has abundant talent and the need is to identify it for wider exposure on national canvass', the Governor said while congratulating the Srinagar lad who became heart throb of millions in India and abroad by dint of his hard work and talent.

Qazi Tauqeer, a Srinagar native, achieved the unique distinction of being first Kashmiri to become part of India's first "Fame Jodi' along with Ruprekha Bannerjee of Kolkata.

Qazi shared with the Governor his experience of making it to the top at the keen contest being watched the world over and was overwhelmed by the support he got from his fans in various parts of the country.

The Governor appreciated his performance and hoped that he will continue to tread the long path of his career single-mindedly. 'Hard work and practice is key to success', the Governor said while wishing him good luck in the glamour world.

Qazi, who is currently in Jammu, apprised General Sinha of his assignments and plans ahead.

The Governor said that Shri Amarnath Shrine Board would explore the possibility of presenting the upcoming singer before his home audience in Srinagar sometime next spring. The Shrine Board had organised Sufi Music Festival early this year before the start of Shri Amarnathji pilgrimage.

Qazi Tauqeer was the most favoured contestant during the 15-week music contest, run by highly acclaimed and celebrated singer Ila Arun, Padma Wadkar and Prasant A Samadhar. Over 8.7 million votes tilted the balance in favour of the final duo – Qazi, the top class performer and Ruprekha, top class singer.

Principal Secretary to Governor, Dr Arun Kumar also congratulated Qazi.

General Sinha presented a shawl to the talented upcoming performer.