In the serene valleys of South Kashmir, 23-year-old Syed Ifra Binti Mehraj from Rajpora, Pulwama, has emerged as a beacon of talent and determination. Belonging to an educated family, Ifra is a young woman whose journey is a testament to the transformative power of creativity and perseverance. Blessed with multiple talents, including calligraphy, painting, and poetry, she has used her skills to create a niche for herself.

The COVID-19 lockdown, which brought the world to a standstill, became a turning point for Ifra. While many struggled with the constraints of isolation, Ifra chose to use this time as an opportunity to nurture her artistic abilities. She practiced relentlessly, refining her skills in calligraphy and other crafts. Reflecting on this phase, she says, “The lockdown allowed me to focus on my passions. It was a time of learning and growth, where I explored my talents and became better at what I love to do.”
Ifra attributes the early encouragement for her work to her mother. “My mother was my biggest supporter in the beginning,” she shares. However, revealing her artistic pursuits to her father was a different challenge. “In educated families, there’s often more emphasis on academics and career stability rather than exploring skills like art. I was hesitant to show my work to my father because I feared he might not value it.”
But her father’s reaction was unexpected and deeply encouraging. “When I finally showed my calligraphy frames to him, he was impressed. He told me I could pursue this not just as a skill but as a career. That support gave me the confidence to showcase my work to the world,” she says.
Today, Ifra creates custom calligraphy pieces on request and has gained a loyal clientele. “The response has been overwhelming. People appreciate my work, and I now earn enough to support myself. I am financially independent and no longer rely on my parents,” she adds proudly.
Alongside her artistic journey, Ifra is excelling in academics. She is pursuing both a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) and a Master’s degree simultaneously, managing her time meticulously to balance her studies and her art. “Alhamdulillah, I’m achieving a good CGPA. It’s all due to self-motivation and a disciplined approach to life,” she explains.
Ifra’s story is not just about her personal achievements; it carries an important message for the youth of Kashmir. She believes that young people often dream big but lack the drive to put in the necessary effort. “Our youth want success handed to them, but the truth is, hard work and dedication are essential. We have so much talent in Kashmir, and with focus and determination, anyone can turn their skills into a source of livelihood,” she says.
Through her journey, Syed Ifra Binti Mehraj has proven that creativity, when combined with effort and determination, can open doors to success. She is a role model for her peers and a source of pride for her community. As she continues to grow in her artistic and academic pursuits, Ifra’s story serves as an inspiration for all those who dream of creating a meaningful and fulfilling life through their passions.