In Conversation: Pt Shiv Kumar Sharma

The maestro on his album ‘Call of the Valley,’ studio and his days in Kashmir

Q What’s keeping you busy these days?

A Concerts, in India and in the US. In May, I will be back in Mumbai to teach my students, who come from all over the world.

Q How have you evolved through your work?

A A musician is always evolving. I have been performing for 55 years, but even today, after every concert, I feel I can improve.

Q Which has been your most fulfilling work?

A I have more than 100 albums, but there is one, Call of the Valley, with Pt Hari Prasad Chaurasia and guitarist Brijmohan Kabra. We released it in 1967. It is 2009 and the album’s still selling. I feel it has been showered with God’s blessings.

Q Which setting inspires you the most?

A Since I’m based in Mumbai, I mostly work out of the city. I have a music room where I can gather my thoughts. Till some time ago, I would visit Kashmir almost every year. I would sit under a tree and be one with nature. There’s no greater inspiration than that.

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Avantika Bhuyan