Junoon dedicate upcoming London concert to Kashmir

LONDON: Pakistan's iconic Sufi rock band Junoon on Monday announced to dedicate their August 25 concert here in the city to Kashmir amid tensions between Pakistan and India after the latter revoked Article 370 in the Muslim-majority Himalayan region.

The famous rock band is set to perform at two concerts coming weekend — in London's SSE Arena, Wembley on August 25 and in Leeds on August 26.

Titled "Junoon – The Comeback Tour," the concert will see the band perform hit songs that catapulted them to worldwide fame. It is presented by Geo Television Network.

The band’s lead guitarist, Salman Ahmad, said on Twitter: “As a UNGWA I am dedicating August 25 #Junoon rock concert in London to #Kashmir.

"Its silenced millions incarcerated in their own homes require humanitarian assistance,” he added.

Speaking to Geo News, Ahmad said: “Junoon is the first and only rock band to have performed in Kashmir. We dedicate our London, August 25 show to the brave people of Kashmir. Hai jazba junoon to himmat na haar!”

Back in 2008, Junoon had performed live in occupied Kashmir beside Srinagar’s Dal Lake.

The guitarist said there was a huge humanitarian crisis developing for millions of people in Kashmir because of the Indian government-imposed curfew. He added: “Kashmiris have been silenced and held captive inside their own homes.

"Their health, safety, and freedoms are at greater risk with each passing day. Music, poetry, arts, and culture is my activism and a powerful force for social change.

"Human rights and the rule of law informs my world view — both of which are at risk in Kashmir,” he noted.

Ahmad, who is mostly based in New York now, stressed that the global community needed to unite for accountability, rule of law, and human rights across the board or else the planet was in danger of destabilisation.

Last year, on the birth anniversary of Pakistan's founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Junoon — which comprises vocalist Ali Azmat and bassist Brian O’Connell apart from Ahmad — had reunited and performed in Karachi. They have since performed at many sold-out shows.

Known for songs like "Jazba Junoon,” “Sayonee,” and “Yaar Bina,” the band would also go on an international tour for the first time in 13 years.

In this regard, Ahmad said: “The UK shows are special [to the band] as it is home to many Pakistani expats who have supported us over the years.

“We are super excited to perform for them once again.”

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