Bappi Lahiri, a
pioneer of Disco music in Indian film songs, died aged 69 on Tuesday. The
singer-composer was battling several health issues for over a month, according
to PTI reports. Endearingly called “Bappi Da” by friends was immensely
influential in bringing disco beats to Indian music. His sudden demise has left
a gaping hole in Indian music.
Also Read | Bappi Lahiri death: Legendary singer’s top songs
As news of his
death reached his massive and varied audience, grief poured out from among
admirers.
Actor Akshay Kumar tweeted: “Today we lost another gem from the music industry…Bappi Da, your voice was the reason for millions to dance, including me. Thank you for all the happiness you brought through your music. My heartfelt condolences to the family. Om Shanti.”
Actor and film producer Ajay Devgn wrote: “Bappi Da was so endearing in person. But, his music had an edge. He introduced a more contemporary style to Hindi film music with Chalte Chalte, Suraksha & Disco Dada.”
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on Twitter, “Shri Bappi Lahiri Ji’s music was all encompassing, beautifully expressing diverse emotions. People across generations could relate to his works. His lively nature will be missed by everyone. Saddened by his demise. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”
Reminiscing about the times he worked with Bappi Lahiri, filmmaker Hansal Mehta tweeted, “Another legend gone. #BappiLahiri. Had the good fortune of working closely with him when I shot an ad for p&g and then when I worked with White Feather Films for @_Sanjay Gupta. Man of incredible melody and talent.”
Union Cabinet Minister Kiran Rijiju wrote on Twitter, “Deeply saddened to hear about the demise of popular music composer & legendary singer #BappiLahiri Ji. He will be fondly remembered for his mesmerizing songs. My condolences to his family and admirers.”
Bappi Lahiri shot to fame in the 1980s. His most popular music compositions include “Disco Dancer”, “Dance Dance”, “Chalte Chalte” and “Namak Halal”. The disco pioneer also sang many of his songs, including “Koi Yaha Naache Naache” and “Pyar Bina Chain Kaha”.
