KD NEWS SERVICE
NEW DELHI, April 23:In a landmark step aimed at preserving and promoting Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage, the National Culture Fund (NCF), under the Ministry of Culture, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Sopori Academy of Music and Performing Arts. The collaboration is set to play a pivotal role in safeguarding the Valley’s timeless musical traditions and ensuring their transmission to future generations.
The MoU was formally signed at Kartavya Bhawan in New Delhi by Sh. Inderjeet Singh, Member Secretary, NCF, and noted Santoor maestro Abhay Rustum Sopori, Managing Trustee of SaMaPa. The partnership underscores the Government of India’s continued commitment to preserving the country’s diverse and vibrant cultural legacy.
Described as a visionary initiative, the collaboration seeks to revitalize and promote the age-old musical traditions of Kashmir by engaging both veteran maestros and emerging young artists. It is expected to provide a structured platform for documentation, dissemination, and innovation within traditional Kashmiri music, particularly the Sufiana and Santoor traditions that have long been synonymous with the region’s spiritual and artistic identity.
Speaking on the occasion, Pandit Abhay Sopori emphasized that the initiative carries forward the legacy of his father, the legendary Bhajan Sopori, revered as the “Saint of Santoor” and “King of Strings.” He described the MoU as a significant milestone in India’s cultural journey, noting that it would ensure that the “timeless sounds of Kashmir continue to resonate across the world.”
He further expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Culture and NCF for supporting a project that aims not only to preserve but also to rejuvenate Kashmir’s musical heritage. The initiative will focus on bridging generational gaps by creating opportunities for collaboration between seasoned artists and young talent, thereby fostering continuity and innovation.
Pandit Abhay Sopori, widely regarded as a cultural icon, is the present custodian of the centuries-old Sopori–Sufiana Gharana, a lineage that traces back over 300 years and is deeply rooted in the region’s Shaivite-Sufi ethos. Known for his contributions as a composer, innovator, and cultural philanthropist, he has introduced new ragas, led cultural reforms, and contributed to award-winning musical projects, earning recognition as a global ambassador of Indian classical music.
The NCF–SaMaPa partnership is expected to open new avenues for cultural exchange, research, and global outreach, reinforcing Kashmir’s position as a cradle of rich artistic traditions. By institutionalizing efforts to preserve and promote its musical heritage, the initiative marks a significant step toward ensuring that the Valley’s unique cultural voice continues to inspire audiences across the world.
