Indian music composer and santoor player, Pandit Shivkumar Sharma, passed away on Tuesday. He was 84 and passed due to cardiac arrest. He was suffering from kidney-related issues past six months and was on dialysis.
Many prominent leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the legendary composer.
PM Modi tweeted, “Our cultural world is poorer with the demise of Pandit Shivkumar Sharma Ji. He popularized the Santoor at a global level. His music will continue to enthrall the coming generations. I fondly remember my interactions with him. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti,”
As per Press Trust of India, Pandit Shivkumar Sharma died at his Pali Hill residence in Mumbai. He was due to perform in Bhopal next week.
“He had a severe heart attack at around 9 am… He was active and was to perform in Bhopal the next week. He was on regular dialysis but was still active,” a family member told PTI.
The Jammu-based musician was the first musician to play Indian classical music on santoor.
West Bengal chief minister Mamta Banarjee also paid tribute to the musician. she tweeted, “Sad to know about the demise of Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma, eminent Santoor player, and internationally celebrated Indian music composer. His departure impoverishes our cultural world. My deepest condolences,”
Sarod player Amjad Ali Khan tweeted, “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,”
Pandit Shivkumar Sharma was honored with Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1986. He also received Padma Vibhushan in 2001.
The legendary musician is survived by his wife and two sons.
