The last custodian: A Kashmiri artisan's battle to save a musical legacy

The origins of the Kashmiri sarangi

The sarangi is an integral part of Kashmir's cultural heritage. This stringed instrument descends from a long line of similar Indian instruments. Its rich history and haunting melody have inspired musicians for generations. Today, the sarangi struggles to find a place in the digital music world, and instrument maker Mohammad Ismail Shah is its unlikely custodian.

A dying craft

Shah is one of the last sarangi artisans. Increasingly, young Kashmiris are turning to more lucrative jobs in the healthcare and education sectors. The artisan's struggle is to keep the craft and the musical legacy alive. Sadly, there is a real possibility that the distinctive sound of the sarangi will soon be a thing of the past.

A harmonious relationship

The construction of a sarangi is complex and requires immense skill and patience. The process is laborious and can take up to six months to complete. The result is a unique instrument producing a sound like no other. Though his craft is challenged by modern technology, Shah remains committed to preserving the instrument's musical legacy.

The future of the sarangi

Despite the challenges, Shah is hopeful about the future of the sarangi. He believes that the instrument's unique sound and history will continue to capture the imagination of musicians and listeners alike. His goal is to inspire the next generation of artisans and musicians to keep the sarangi and its legacy alive.