‘Through his music, he introduced beauty of Indian classical music to entire world’
JAMMU: A heartfelt tribute programme was held today at Mubarak Mandi in memory of Padma Vibhushan Santoor maestro Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma on his death anniversary. The event became even more special because Mubarak Mandi is the historic place where Pandit Ji spent many days of his childhood and also practiced music during his early years. The sweet sound of the santoor filled the atmosphere and many people became emotional during the programme.
Artists, music lovers, students, senior citizens, and many respected people of the city gathered to offer floral tributes to Pandit Ji. Speakers described him not only as a great musician but also as an important cultural identity of Jammu. They said that through his music, he introduced the beauty of Indian classical music to the entire world.
Born on January 13, 1938, in Jammu, Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma received training in singing and tabla from his father Uma Dutt Sharma. Later, he chose the santoor as his main musical instrument. Through years of hard work and innovation, he transformed the santoor from a folk instrument into a world-famous classical instrument. His unique style gave the santoor a new identity in Indian music.
During the programme, people also remembered his famous musical partnership “Shiv-Hari” with renowned flute player Hariprasad Chaurasia. Together, they created unforgettable music for films like Silsila, Chandni, and Lamhe, which are still loved by audiences today. Speakers also mentioned that Pandit Ji received major honours including the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Padma Shri, and Padma Vibhushan.
During the event, senior citizen Deepak Sharma requested the Jammu and Kashmir Government and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to install a grand statue of Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma near Panjtirthi Chowk. He also suggested naming an auditorium, music square, or cultural centre in Jammu after the legendary musician so that future generations can always remember his contribution.
At the end of the programme, a two-minute silence was observed in memory of the great santoor maestro. People said that although Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma passed away on May 10, 2022, the sweet melodies of his santoor will always live in the hearts of people.