Pandit Shivkumar Sharma, a renowned musician and santoor master, died on May 10 in Mumbai. The artist, according to sources, was 84 years old and had been suffering from kidney problems for the past six months. According to an Indian Express article, Pandit Shivkumar Sharma died of heart attack while on dialysis.
One half of the enormously popular Shiv-Hari duet was the late legend. They collaborated on the music for various Hindi films, including Silsila, Lamhe, and Chandni.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences via Twitter. “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.” PM Modi’s tweet read.
Shabana Azmi, a veteran actress, also tweeted about the icon: “Deeply saddened to hear that maestro Pt Shiv Kumar Sharma has passed away. His mellifluous music will remain in our hearts of course but tinged by the pain of his loss . My deepest condolences to the family. RIP.”
Pandit Shivkumar Sharma, a Jammu native, fell in love with Santoor at the age of 13. In fact, his well-known work not only brought him fame and renown, but it also helped to popularise the Santoor. In Mumbai, Pandit Shivkumar Sharma delivered his first public performance in 1955.
In 1991, the great musician was awarded the honorable Padma Shri, and in 2001, the Padma Vibhushan.
May his spirit find eternal peace!
