Ghulam Mohammad Zaz’s

Finally, Ghulam Mohammad Zaz’s perseverance, devotion, and passion for his profession have borne fruit. On the 74th Republic Day of India, Zaz received the Padma Shri, the country’s highest civilian honour. In Jammu and Kashmir, he is the sole artist still active in the production of classic Kashmiri musical instruments including the Santoor, Rabab, and Sarangi.

The announcement that Ghulam Mohammad Zaz had received India’s highest civilian award has sparked celebrations at Zaz’s household. His home is surrounded by relatives, friends, and neighbours in the Zaina Kadal neighbourhood of Srinagar. In the Kashmir region, he represents the eighth generation of musical instrument makers. He also dedicates this honour to the earlier generations who taught him the craft and continued its practise.

“I am incredibly grateful to the government for the Award because it is God’s grace. It has made me quite happy. This honour is for those who educated me; my family has been producing these musical instruments for seven generations prior to me. As the eighth generation to create these instruments, I shall do so. The family has always kept this craft. I didn’t do this task for pay; rather, my forefathers gave it to me “Ghulam Mohammad Zaz stated.

The most distinctive musical instruments in Kashmir are made by Zaz, and some of India’s top musicians like them. He also creates these instruments for musicians outside of India.

Musicians from the Middle East, Europe, and the United States have all used his instruments. Playing the Ghulam Mohammad Zaz-made Santoor, musicians like as Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma, Bhajan Sopori, and many others have given international performances.

“Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma and Bhajan Sopori were among the nation’s first Santoor players. They went above and above. The custom is being continued by their offspring. But their parents’ dedication to the instrument is unparalleled. These instruments have been travelling the globe thanks to me. European musicians use the same instrument in various ways. I regret that no one will carry on this legacy in the future, but I also have hope that the art will survive, said Ghulam Mohammad Zaz.

Zaz’s hometown is celebrating his award right now. The fact that he has been recognised for his extensive effort and devotion to the trade for more than seven decades has made his family and friends happy for him. All three of Zaz’s daughters are incredibly proud of their father’s accomplishments.

Congratulations Ghulam Muhammad Zaz Saab for the well deserved #PadmaShri in recognition of your contribution in making hand crafted music string instruments including Santoor which went on to create world class maestros. #PeoplesPadma #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/6Ve5urkcXQ

— Dr Jitendra Singh (मोदी का परिवार) (@DrJitendraSingh) January 25, 2023

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“We have the utmost respect for Papa. The government has finally recognised his commitment to his work. I’m content right now. It’s a holiday everywhere; we’ve been getting a lot of calls, and we’re thrilled and proud, said Ishfaq Ahmad, Zaz’s son-in-law.

The craft of creating these musical instruments may be lost in the future if the government does not step in.