INDIA: Pandit Shivkumar Sharma, a legendary santoor musician, died of heart arrest in Mumbai. He was 84 years old. Pandit Sharma was suffering from kidney problems for the past six months. The renowned musician was scheduled to perform in Bhopal next week as one of India’s most well-known classical artists.
“At around 9 a.m., he suffered a major heart attack. He was active and was scheduled to perform in Bhopal the following week. He went on dialysis on a regular basis but remained active,” according to the family.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the death of the legend and said, “Our cultural world is poorer with the demise of Pandit Shivkumar Sharma Ji. He popularised the Santoor at a global level. His music will continue to enthral the coming generations. I fondly remember my interactions with him. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”
“The passing away of Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharmaji marks the end of an era. He was the pioneer of Santoor and his contribution is unparalleled. For me, it’s a personal loss and I will miss him no end. May his soul rest in peace. His music lives on forever! Om Shanti,” Sarod player Amjad Ali Khan tweeted.
About Pandit Shivkumar Sharma
Pandit Sharma, a Jammu native, began learning santoor at the age of thirteen. In 1955, he gave his first public concert in Mumbai. Pandit Sharma is the man who is credited with popularising the santoor.
Pandit Sharma created the music for one of the scenes in the 1956 film ‘Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baje’. Pandit Shivkumar Sharma recorded his debut solo CD four years later.
In 1967, Pandit Sharma, flautist Hariprasad Chaurasia, and guitarist Brij Bhushan Kabra collaborated on the critically acclaimed concept album Call of the Valley.
Pandit Sharma collaborated with Hariprasad Chaurasia on the music for various Hindi films, including Silsila, Chandni, and Darr.
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