“First Time Kashmir” — Mushtaq Ahmad Kehwa Motivating with His Boat
Sahil Manzoor
There are many fields in our society—the government sector, the business sector, and the private sector. Intellectuals often say that no business is small or big; business is business. It may begin from zero and grow into hundreds of crores. History shows that many of today’s billionaires once had nothing. Financially weak and short of resources, they rose to success purely through human potential and intellectual ability.
In today’s world, success no longer depends solely on degrees or government jobs. It depends on ideas, dedication, honesty, and hard work. Anyone who understands society’s needs and works sincerely can succeed in any field. History is filled with examples of people who started from nothing and achieved greatness through passion and commitment.
I have met several individuals who left government jobs to work in the private sector. Many of them now earn far beyond their expectations and generate employment for hundreds of unemployed youth. Their success reflects courage, dedication, and the willingness to take risks—qualities that lead to self-reliance and growth.
One unfortunate reality in Kashmir is the habit of classifying professions as “small,” “big,” or even “inferior.” Selling vegetables on carts, driving autos, or doing daily labour is often looked down upon. This mindset is deeply harmful. No honest and legal profession is inferior. Every form of labour deserves respect.
A vegetable seller working from morning till evening is no less dignified than someone sitting in an office. The problem lies not in the profession but in our thinking. Respect for the dignity of labour is the foundation of a healthy society.
Today, even in remote areas of Kashmir, vegetables are sold at prices close to those in Srinagar. This reflects growing awareness among people who now understand the value of effort, supply, and honest earnings. For many, hard work has become a passion rather than a compulsion.
Hard work is indeed a passion for those who wish to achieve something meaningful in life. Some people generate income even in the harshest conditions because they understand customers and trust. They offer fresh, reliable products, not deception. Trust, after all, is the greatest capital in business.
One evening, while scrolling through Facebook after dinner, a familiar face kept appearing on my screen. With a smile, he would say: “Hello, how are you? My name is Mushtaq Ahmad Kehwa. I am on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram… First Time Kashmir.” This simple line has now become his identity.
What impressed me most was that Mushtaq Ahmad Kehwa never attended school regularly and has no formal business education. Yet he manages to attract customers, earn a respectable income, and motivate unemployed youth. His journey proves that success does not always require degrees—sometimes it only needs courage, confidence, and creativity.
Mushtaq Ahmad Kehwa is a living example of how passion can change destiny. Using social media effectively, he presents Kashmir in a positive and appealing light. Through his simple videos, he promotes local businesses, culture, and tourism, while offering hope to youth who feel like failures due to incomplete education.
His work is deeply motivating. It teaches us that passion does not need a certificate—it needs direction and determination. A passionate person carves his own path and eventually reaches his destination. When honesty, hard work, and passion come together, success becomes inevitable.
Kashmiri youth must pause and reflect. Unemployment or lack of opportunity should not break their spirit. Instead of endlessly waiting for government jobs, they should explore entrepreneurship, business, agriculture, tourism, and digital platforms.
The youth of Kashmir must think beyond limits, believe in themselves, and recognise their own abilities. Every individual possesses talent; success comes to those who identify it and refine it.
The government, too, should acknowledge individuals who positively motivate society. People like Mushtaq Ahmad Kehwa can play a vital role in counselling and guiding unemployed and unskilled youth. Their real-life experiences carry far greater impact than theoretical advice.
In conclusion, we must change our mindset—respect every profession, encourage innovation, and support those striving to create opportunities. Kashmir is rich in talent, and with the right guidance, its youth can achieve remarkable success. Passion, honesty, and hard work remain the true keys to progress.
