Veteran singer Suman Kalyanpur passes away at 89
Renowned playback singer Suman Kalyanpur, known for her melodious voice and timeless songs, passed away at 89 on May 31 at her residence.
Renowned playback singer Suman Kalyanpur, known for her melodious voice and timeless songs, passed away at 89 on May 31 at her residence in Mumbai's Lokhandwala area. She was 89 years old and had been unwell for more than a month. Her funeral is scheduled to take place in Mumbai's Santa Cruz.
Suman Kalyanpur SongsSuman Kalyanpur was one of the most respected voices in Indian cinema during the golden era of Hindi film music. She became famous for hit songs such as "Na Na Karte Pyar", "Na Tum Humein Jaano", "Ajhun Na Aaye Baalma", and "Aaj Kal Tere Mere Pyar Ke Charche". Her singing style was admired for its simplicity, sweetness, and emotional depth.
Author Mangala Khadilkar, who wrote Kalyanpur's biography in Marathi, remembered her as a gentle and humble person. She said that Kalyanpur's voice was unique for its softness and ability to touch listeners' hearts instantly.
Born and raised in Mumbai before India's Partition, Suman Kalyanpur was the eldest of five sisters. Growing up in a traditional family, music became an important part of her life. Since outdoor activities were limited, she and her sisters spent time singing at home. Her parents were fond of devotional songs, which influenced her early musical interests.
Her journey into the music industry began when she sang at a local Ganpati celebration. Impressed by her talent, neighbor D.B. Jog invited her to sing for the Marathi film Shauchi Chandni in 1953, marking her entry into the recording world.
Career and LegacyDuring the 1960s, Hindi film music was flourishing, and playback singing was dominated by sisters Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosle. Kalyanpur's voice bore a resemblance to Lata Mangeshkar's, leading many listeners to mistake one for the other.
Because of her exceptional talent and precise singing, music directors often turned to Kalyanpur when Lata Mangeshkar was unavailable. She also gained opportunities during periods when Lata was abroad or when producers sought a more affordable alternative. One notable example was the song "Na Tum Humein Jaano" from Baat Ek Raat Ki, which Kalyanpur recorded during a time when music director S. D. Burman and Lata Mangeshkar were not working together.
Despite often being compared to Lata Mangeshkar, Suman Kalyanpur carved out her own place in Indian music history. Her graceful voice and memorable songs continue to be cherished by music lovers across generations.