Farewell to a Furniture Icon: Kashmir Pays Tribute to Haji Habibullah Shora
By The Furniture Times – Bringing Furniture Brands into the Global Spotlight
SRINAGAR, KASHMIR: The furniture and woodcraft fraternity across Kashmir is deeply mourning the loss of Haji Habibullah Shora, the revered founder of Shora and Co., who passed away on Wednesday at his residence in Rajbagh. His departure marks the end of an era — one defined by craftsmanship, integrity, and vision that helped shape Kashmir’s furniture manufacturing legacy.
The Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK) led tributes to the late industrialist, calling his passing an “irreparable loss to the Valley’s wood-based and furniture manufacturing sector.”
“With the passing of Haji Habibullah Shora Sahib, Kashmir has lost not only a pioneering entrepreneur but a true legend of furniture manufacturing — a man whose vision, craftsmanship, and character shaped an entire industry and inspired generations,”
said Shahid Kamili, Head of the Advisory Committee of FCIK.
A proud member of the first generation of organized industrialists in Kashmir, Habibullah Shora was celebrated for his refined aesthetic, impeccable quality standards, and unwavering work ethic. His name became synonymous with quality, reliability, and timeless design — values that continue to define the Shora legacy.
Former FCIK President Shakeel Qalander fondly remembered Shora Sahib as one of his earliest inspirations.
“When I entered business, introducing new designs and innovations, Habibullah Sahib — despite being a direct competitor — always appreciated and encouraged me. That generosity reflected his magnanimity and his deep love for the craft. He was not just an entrepreneur; he was a mentor.”
For decades, the Shora factory was more than just a production house; it was a school of skill and creativity. Under Habibullah Sahib’s guidance, numerous artisans trained there went on to establish successful workshops of their own.
“He did not merely create furniture; he created craftsmen, careers, and a culture of quality,”
Qalander added.
The Shora family’s connection to Kashmir’s furniture tradition runs deep, tracing back to the late Ghulam Ahmad Shora (Sahab Shora) and the late Mohammad Sultan Shora. But it was Haji Habibullah Shora who transformed that tradition into an institutional enterprise, bringing credibility, recognition, and modern structure to Kashmir’s furniture industry.
Former FCIK President Mehraj-ud-Din Qureshi described him as “a man of remarkable boldness and quiet confidence — someone who commanded respect not through words but through deeds.” He further noted,
“He earned respect by the integrity of his work, the dignity of his conduct, and his commitment to ethical business practices.”
Echoing this sentiment, Zahoor Ahmad Bhat, another former FCIK President, said,
“Late Habibullah Sahib was among the pioneers who gave shape and stature to Kashmir’s furniture manufacturing industry. His craftsmanship, leadership, and humility will forever be remembered with deep respect.”
Across the Valley, hundreds of entrepreneurs and craftsmen from industrial estates including Zainakote, Bagh-i-Ali Mardan Khan, Khunmoh, and others gathered to honor his legacy through heartfelt condolence meetings. Prayers were offered for his eternal peace, while his life and work were remembered with reverence and gratitude.
Haji Habibullah Shora will forever be remembered as a symbol of enterprise and elegance, craftsmanship and conscience, competition and compassion. His legacy continues to inspire the next generation of artisans and entrepreneurs, reminding them that true success is not measured by what one creates, but by the values one leaves behind.
Kashmir bids farewell to a legend — a man who turned wood into art, vision into industry, and business into legacy.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
