Veteran Playback Singer Suman Kalyanpur Dies at 89
Veteran playback singer Suman Kalyanpur, one of the most revered voices of Indian cinema and music, passed away on Sunday evening at her Mumbai residence due to age-related ailments. She was 89.
Kalyanpur died peacefully around 8 pm at her Lokhandwala home, according to author and close associate Mangala Khadilkar. The noted writer, who authored the Marathi biography Suman Sugandh on the singer, said Kalyanpur spent her final days listening to her own songs.
With a career that spanned over six decades, Kalyanpur built a distinguished legacy across Hindi, Marathi and several regional languages. Renowned for her melodious voice, impeccable diction and classical grounding, she delivered numerous evergreen songs that continue to be cherished by music lovers.
Among her most celebrated Hindi tracks are Aajkal Tere Mere Pyar Ke Charche, Na Na Karte Pyar Tumhin Se and Tumne Pukara Aur Hum Chale Aaye. Her Marathi repertoire, featuring classics such as Ketakichya Bani Tithe, Sang Kadhi Kalnar Tula and Nimbonyachya Jhadamaghe, remains an integral part of the state’s musical heritage.
Born in Dhaka in undivided India before her family later settled in Mumbai, Kalyanpur rose to become one of the defining voices of Indian playback singing. Over the years, she earned widespread acclaim for the emotional depth and elegance she brought to her performances. In recognition of her immense contribution to Indian music, she was honoured with the Padma Bhushan.
Condolences poured in from across the political and cultural spectrum following news of her demise.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described her passing as the loss of a divine voice that enriched India’s musical legacy. He said her contribution to Marathi, Hindi, Bengali and Odia music would continue to inspire generations and that her songs would forever remain alive in the hearts of listeners.
NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar said Kalyanpur’s death marked the end of a golden chapter in Indian music. He remembered her as an artiste whose soulful voice captivated audiences for decades and left an enduring imprint on the country’s cultural landscape.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde called her passing a great loss to the music fraternity, saying she represented the golden era of Indian film and light classical music. He noted that her devotional and folk songs continue to enjoy immense popularity even today.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari also paid tribute, describing her death as an irreparable loss and praising her unparalleled contribution to Indian music.
Suman Kalyanpur’s voice transcended generations, languages and musical traditions. While the singer is no more, the songs she left behind will continue to keep her memory alive, ensuring her place among the legends of Indian music.
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