Gulam Hassan Sofi

**Ghulam Hassan Sofi** was a renowned Kashmiri singer and harmonium player, born in 1932 in Srinagar, Kashmir. He began his music career in the early 1950s, performing with Radio Kashmir, part of the All India Radio network, and later became associated with the Song and Drama Division, working there from 1967 to 1994. Sofi's music often focused on spiritual and mystical themes, and he was acclaimed for singing the lyrics of celebrated Kashmiri poets such as Rasool Mir and Ghulam Ahmad Mehjoor. He received numerous awards for his contributions, including a lifetime award from the Union Information Ministry and the prestigious Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah award in 2006. Sofi was known for his ability to blend traditional music with modern elements, captivating audiences across generations.

Throughout his career, Sofi remained deeply connected to Kashmiri culture, using his music as a medium to convey the region's rich poetic traditions. Despite facing personal challenges, including visual impairment, Sofi's passion for music endured, and his legacy continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day. He passed away in 2009, but his compositions remain a testament to his lasting impact on Kashmiri music. His recordings, such as those found in the album "Khuwa Gawa," continue to highlight his melodic talent and significance in Kashmiri cultural heritage.