Ghaus Siwani, New Delhi

Art is a gift from God, and Kashmiri youth Sufyan Rauf is one of those truly blessed. He has not learnt the musical art of beatboxing from any teacher, but the art was born within him. Besides, YouTube videos have immensely helped him to hone it, he admits.

Beat boxing is the art of creating music without the help of instruments. In this, the sounds of music are extracted from the mouth, nose, nostrils and throat, and sometimes the hands, feet and other limbs are also used for this purpose.

There are very few people in the world who can make music without a musical instrument. 20-year-old Sufyan is one such person. He is the first beatboxer from Kashmir and sports the stage name ‘Abadox.’ He says that he has learned beatboxing through YouTube but his tunes are getting better with constant practice.

Sufyan’s parents don't know anything about beatboxing, but they support him every step of the way. Sufyan is also in high spirits and wants to take the art around the world. He has been performing this art in front of people for years.

Sufyan says that he used to be very nervous during his shows initially, but today he feels much more relaxed. He says that in beatboxing, the throat is most stressed out, so one should not get too excited or put too much pressure on the throat while performing.

He further said that the trend of beatboxing amongst the youth in the valley is also increasing. Sufyan has set up a community of youngsters who are into this hobby in Kashmir, and it’s emerging as a movement for new boys. Dozens of young people are currently learning from him.

"I have been interested in hip-hop music since I was a child and I have been almost addicted to rap music since I was in elementary school," says Sufyan. Since beatboxing is an unknown art and not well known to the general public, Sufyan did not know at first whether he would be able to continue it, but then he decided to not only continue it but also formed his own group. Today, beatboxing has become his identity in Kashmir.

"I want to compete in global beatboxing competitions and continue to refine my skill. I want to take my expertise to the international level and make a name for myself,” he said.