He was 98.
Popularly known as 'Masterjee', he was hailed as the 'Father of Indian Classical Music' in Jammu and Kashmir with sitar, santoor and classical Hindustani vocal being his forte.
He had taught more than 35,000 students, including a large number of Kashmiri professional singers and music performers, a statement by the family said.
He initiated the mass popularisation of Indian classical music and practically made J&K a new cultural state.
Sopori introduced Hindustani classical music as a subject initially in S P Higher Secondary School for boys and later in the Women's College in Srinagar.
Sangeet Maha Vidyalaya, the school purely of Indian classical music and dance that Sopori started in the Valley was the main institution for holding Hindustani classical music and dance concerts regularly in the state.
His command over classical and Sufiyana music shone through his distinctive style, both in instrumental and vocal performances.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
