Kashmir bids farewell to furniture legend Habibullah Shora
Srinagar, Nov 7: The industrial fraternity across Kashmir is mourning the loss of one of its most distinguished figures, Haji Habibullah Shora, the legendary founder of Shora & Co, who passed away on Wednesday at his Rajbagh residence.
The Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK) led the tributes, describing his demise as an irreparable loss to the Valley’s industrial community—particularly to the 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 of craftsmen and entrepreneurs, “said Head of the Advisory Committee FCIK, Shahid Kamili.
Belonging to the first generation of industrialists who gave organised identity and structure to Kashmir’s furniture industry, Habibullah Shora was celebrated for his uncompromising standards and refined aesthetic. His name became synonymous with quality, reliability, and grace — virtues that defined both his work and his personality.
Former FCIK President Shakeel Qalander recalled Shora Sahib as one of his earliest ideals, admiring his articulation, confidence, and dignity.
“When I ventured into business, introducing innovations and new designs to keep pace with changing trends, Habibullah Sahib — despite being a direct competitor — encouraged and appreciated my efforts,” Qalander said.
“That generosity of spirit reflected his magnanimity and genuine love for the craft. He was a mentor as much as a real entrepreneur”, he added.
For decades, the Shora factory stood as more than a workplace — it was an institution of skill and learning. Under Habibullah Shora’s supervision, many of Kashmir’s finest furniture artisans were trained, several of whom later went on to establish successful workshops of their own.
“This contribution alone would earn him a place of honour in Kashmir’s industrial story — for he did not merely create furniture, he created craftsmen, careers, and a culture of quality,” Qalander further added.
While the Shora family has long been a pillar of Kashmir’s ancestral furniture tradition — with distinguished members such as the late Ghulam Ahmad Shora (Sahab Shora) and Late Mohammad Sultan Shora — it was Habibullah Shora who brought institutional recognition and credibility to the name. His pioneering efforts helped transform the Shoras from individual artisans into an enduring industrial brand synonymous with craftsmanship and excellence.
Remembered as a man who combined enterprise with elegance, craftsmanship with conscience, and competition with compassion, Haji Habibullah Shora’s life remains a testament to integrity, perseverance, and quiet success. His influence continues to resonate through every artisan and entrepreneur inspired by his legacy.
While paying tributes, former FCIK President Mehraj-ud-Din Qureshi described Late Shora Sahib as a man of remarkable boldness and quiet confidence — someone who commanded respect not through words but through deeds.
“He earned his self-respect and the respect of others by the integrity of his work, the dignity of his conduct, and his unwavering commitment to ethical business practices,” Qureshi said.
Former FCIK President, Zahoor Ahmad Bhat said that Late Habibullah sahib was among the pioneers who gave shape and stature to Kashmir’s furniture manufacturing industry. “His vision, craftsmanship and dignified personality will always be remembered with immense respect and admiration”, Zahoor added.
Hundreds of entrepreneurs from the Valley’s wood-based industry joined in paying rich tributes to departed legend. Industrial associations across Kashmir including Bagh-i-Ali Mardan Khan,Zainakote, Khunmoh, and other estates held condolence meetings in his remembrance, praying for eternal peace to the departed soul and sending condolences to the bereaved family.
