Kishore Kumar (4 August 1929 – 13 October 1987) was an Indian playback singer, actor, composer and filmmaker, and one of the most beloved voices in Hindi film history. Famous for his playful yodelling and his effortless range, he could move from comedy to deep melancholy. He won a record eight Filmfare Awards for Best Male Playback Singer and remains a favourite with listeners of every generation.
Quick Facts
| Birth name | Abhas Kumar Ganguly |
| Born | 4 August 1929, Khandwa, Central Provinces (now Madhya Pradesh), India |
| Died | 13 October 1987, Bombay (aged 58) |
| Profession | Singer, actor, composer, director, producer |
| Brothers | Ashok Kumar, Anoop Kumar |
| Spouses | Ruma Guha Thakurta, Madhubala, Yogeeta Bali, Leena Chandavarkar |
| Children | Amit Kumar, Sumit Kumar |
| Awards | 8 Filmfare Awards for Best Male Playback Singer (record) |
Early Life
Kishore Kumar was born Abhas Kumar Ganguly in Khandwa into a Bengali family. His elder brother, Ashok Kumar, was already a major film star when Kishore followed him to Bombay. Kishore had no formal musical training, but he idolised the singer-actor K. L. Saigal.
Career
In the 1950s and 1960s Kishore was best known as a comic actor. He starred in hits such as Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi (1958), Half Ticket (1962) and Padosan (1968), often singing his own songs. Composer S. D. Burman recognised his singing talent early and gave him many songs.
The turning point was Aradhana (1969). His songs for Rajesh Khanna, including “Mere Sapnon Ki Rani” and “Roop Tera Mastana”, made him the most in-demand male singer in India. Through the 1970s and 1980s he was the voice of Rajesh Khanna, Amitabh Bachchan and many others. He worked closely with R. D. Burman on classics including “Yeh Shaam Mastani”, “Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas” and “Chingari Koi Bhadke”.
Kishore also wrote, directed, produced and composed music for films such as Door Gagan Ki Chhaon Mein (1964). He was famous for his eccentric humour. During the 1975–77 Emergency his songs were briefly banned from state radio after he refused to perform at a government event.
Personal Life and Death
Kishore married four times: to singer-actress Ruma Guha Thakurta, actress Madhubala, actress Yogeeta Bali and actress Leena Chandavarkar. His sons Amit Kumar and Sumit Kumar both went into music. He died of a heart attack in Bombay on 13 October 1987 and was cremated in his hometown, Khandwa.
Awards and Legacy
Popular Songs
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where was Kishore Kumar born?
Kishore Kumar was born on 4 August 1929 in Khandwa, Central Provinces (now Madhya Pradesh), India.
When did Kishore Kumar die?
Died: 13 October 1987, Bombay (aged 58).
What honours has Kishore Kumar received?
8 Filmfare Awards for Best Male Playback Singer (record).
