Bhupinder Singh, the voice behind popular Bollywood numbers like ‘Mera Rang De Basanti Chola’ and ‘Pyar Hume Kis Mod Pai’, died in Mumbai on Monday. He was 82 years old.

Singh’s wife and singer, Mitali, confirmed the veteran’s death. 

Bhupinder Singh also delivered hits like Dil Dhoondta Hai, Naam Gum Jaayega, Ek Akela Is Shaher Mein, Kisi Nazar Ko Tera Intezar Aaj Bhi Hai, among others.

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Speaking to The Indian Express, Bhupinder’s wife Mitali said, “He passed away on Monday and the funeral will be held mostly on Tuesday. He had a colon ailment.’’

The director of Criticare Asia hospital, where Bhupinder Singh was being treated, Dr Deepak Namjoshi said, “Bhupinderji was admitted ten days back to our hospital. He had an infection. We had strong suspicion that he had Colon ailment and we were doing investigations. In the same time, he got COVID-19. His condition worsened on Monday morning and we had to put him on a ventilator. He got a cardiac arrest and passed away at 7:45 pm.”

Also Read: Bhupinder Singh dies at 82, tributes pour in

Who was Bhupinder Singh?

Chiefly a ghazal singer, Bhupinder Singh, was born in Amritsar, Punjab on February 6, 1940. He learnt music from his father Prof Natha Singhji, who was a trained vocalist.

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Singh started his career with the All India Radio. He also joined the Delhi Doordarshan Center. The 80-year-old was heard playing the guitar by music composer Madan Mohan in 1962. That is when he got his first big call. 

Mohan asked Singh to sing “Hoke Majboor” with Mohd Rafi, Talat Mahmood and Manna Dey in Haqeeqat. Then he delivered a hit for musician Khayyam in the film ‘Aakhri Khat’.