Nazir Ganaie/Srinagar

In the heart of Srinagar, amidst threats and adversity, Peerzada Tajamul is rewriting cultural norms as the region's first male belly dancer. His journey from becoming a sensation on social media to performing on the international stage underscores the resilience and defiance of this young Kashmir in the face of societal backlash.

In an overwhelmingly Muslim milieu of Kashmir, Tajamul has emerged as a figure who dares to pursue his passion for belly dancing despite threats and physical attacks on him.

"I have faced hostility from those closest to me, all because of my passion for belly dancing," the 24-year-old Peerzada Tajamul told Awaz-the Voice. His voice was tinged with pride and sadness.

Belly dance is a Middle Eastern dance that originated in Egypt, which features movements of the hips and torso

Hailing from north Kashmir's Kupwara district, Peerzada got caught between tradition and his passion. "I no longer live in my native place," he said. "I have chosen Srinagar as my refuge; here I manage my education alongside nurturing my passion."

In a city known for its bustling markets and storied lakes, Tajamul found solace and freedom to express through the graceful art of belly dancing. Yet, the shadows of disapproval loom large.

"They pushed me against the wall," he admitted, recalling the isolation and rejection he endured made him work on improving his dancing skills.

As he spoke, his eyes shone with hope and determination

"I dance not just for myself, but for every person who is bold and dares to dream," he declared. My steps may falter, but my spirit dances on."

Amid an ancient city where history whispers through every stone, Peerzada Tajamul the rhythmic sway of his hips and the echoing beats of his heart, dared to rewrite the narrative in artistic excellence becoming a metaphor of courage.

He became famous overnight in 2017 when a video of a performance at a college event went viral on social media. That established Tajamul as Kashmir's first male belly dancer. He teaches at an academy.

Despite his success and recognition, Tajamul is mindful of his traumatic past when he endured beatings from his father and relentless verbal abuse from random people, all because of his chosen path. "I received death threats," Tajamul recounted,

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"At that time, I felt very strange and bad and I even cried. And, I didn’t know if I could move forward with my passion."