New Delhi: The music industry mourns the loss of veteran playback singer and Padma Bhushan awardee Suman Kalyanpur, who passed away on Sunday, May 31, at the age of 89 due to age-related issues, as confirmed by a close friend. Her death has left fans and film industry members reflecting on the enduring legacy of a singer whose melodies have captivated audiences for decades.
Mangala Khadilkar, the author of the Marathi biography Suman Sugandh, reported to PTI that Kalyanpur died peacefully at her Lokhandwala residence around 8 PM. In her final days, she found solace in listening to her own songs.
Suman Kalyanpur: Iconic Songs That Recall Lata Mangeshkar
Throughout her illustrious career, Kalyanpur contributed many unforgettable songs to Hindi cinema. Classics such as “Aajkal Tere Mere Pyar Ke Charche,” “Mera Pyaar Bhi Tu Hai,” “Tumne Pukara Aur Hum Chale Aaye,” “Na Na Karte Pyar Tumhin Se,” and “Tumse O Haseena” remain beloved by listeners today.
Notably, many listeners often confused her voice with that of Lata Mangeshkar, due to their striking similarity. Several of her songs are particularly noteworthy in this regard:
- “Na Na Karte Pyar Tumhin Se” (Jab Jab Phool Khile)
- “Haal-e-dil Unko Sunana Tha” (Fariyad, 1964)
- “Yun Hi Dil Ne Chaha Tha” (Dil Hi To Hai, 1963)
- “Na Tum Hamen Jano” (Baat Ek Raat Ki, 1962)
- “Dil Ek Mandir Hai” (Title song, 1963)
Kalyanpur on Her Comparisons with Lata Mangeshkar
Despite the frequent comparisons to Mangeshkar, Kalyanpur maintained her individuality throughout her career. “My voice is similar to Lata tai’s. However, a true connoisseur can distinguish between the two,” she explained in an interview with ETimes. “I sang every song to the best of my capacity and never allowed comparisons to define me. I always believed in my own style of singing.”
Kalyanpur spoke affectionately of Mangeshkar, highlighting the influence her voice had on her career. “I have always admired Lata tai’s sweet and melodious voice, which I listened to before I began singing professionally. Her Taannas, Harkati, and Murki in songs deeply impressed me,” she recalled.
Suman Kalyanpur is survived by her daughter, Charu.
