MC Kash
MC Kash, born Roushan Illahi in Srinagar, Kashmir, is a Kashmiri rapper and songwriter known for his politically charged hip-hop music. He gained prominence in the late 2000s and early 2010s for using his music to address the socio-political issues facing Kashmir, including human rights abuses, militarization, and the ongoing conflict. His music often incorporates elements of Kashmiri folk music and poetry, blending traditional sounds with contemporary hip-hop beats. MC Kash's lyrics are primarily in Kashmiri and English, making his music accessible to a wider audience both within and outside the region. He has released several tracks and albums that have garnered attention both locally and internationally, sparking debates and discussions about freedom of expression and the role of art in conflict zones. Due to the sensitive nature of his subject matter, MC Kash has faced censorship and threats, but he continues to use his music as a platform to voice the concerns of the Kashmiri people. His work is considered by some to be an important form of cultural resistance and a significant contribution to the contemporary Kashmiri narrative.