In the heart of Downtown Srinagar, 30-year-old Shahid Sheikh is preserving Kashmir’s rich musical heritage through the traditional craft of harmonium-making and repair. What began as a childhood interest has gradually become his profession and identity. Shahid works alongside his father, who has been involved in this craft for many years. Growing up, Shahid closely observed his father making and repairing harmoniums. Inspired by his family’s tradition and his own passion for music, he decided to follow the same path. With nearly 14 years of experience, Shahid continues to learn and improve his skills. For him, mastering this craft is a lifelong journey. He believes that there is always something new to learn, no matter how experienced a person becomes. According to Shahid, tuning is the most important part of harmonium-making, whether the instrument is standard, portable, or scale-changing. Proper tuning ensures that musicians can practise and singers can perform in harmony. Through his dedication and craftsmanship, Shahid is helping preserve a traditional skill that connects generations of musicians. His journey is a reminder that passion, patience, and continuous learning can transform a childhood interest into a meaningful profession while keeping cultural traditions alive for future generations.
