Kishore Kumar Biography
Kishore Kumar (1929–1987) was one of India’s most iconic playback singers, actors, music directors, lyricists, writers, directors, producers, and comedians. A true maverick, he remains an unparalleled figure in Indian cinema, celebrated for his versatility, humor, and soulful voice.
Early Life
- Birth: Kishore Kumar was born as Abhas Kumar Ganguly on August 4, 1929, in Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh.
- Family:
- He was the youngest of four siblings. His elder brothers Ashok Kumar and Anoop Kumar were already established in the Indian film industry.
- Despite his family’s acting background, Kishore initially aspired to become a singer.
- Education: Kishore completed his schooling in Khandwa before moving to Mumbai to join his elder brothers.
Career
Playback Singing
- Kishore Kumar’s playback singing career began in 1948 with the song “Marne Ki Duayen Kyon Mangu” for the film Ziddi, composed by Khemchand Prakash.
- His unique voice and ability to express a wide range of emotions made him a favorite among top music directors like S.D. Burman, R.D. Burman, Laxmikant-Pyarelal, and Kalyanji-Anandji.
- He was the voice behind legendary actors such as Dev Anand, Rajesh Khanna, and Amitabh Bachchan.
- Iconic songs include:
- “Roop Tera Mastana” (Aradhana)
- “Mere Sapno Ki Rani” (Aradhana)
- “Zindagi Ek Safar Hai Suhana” (Andaz)
- “Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas” (Blackmail)
- “Ek Ladki Bheegi Bhaagi Si” (Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi)
- “Humein Tumse Pyaar Kitna” (Kudrat)
Acting Career
- Kishore Kumar made his acting debut in Shikari (1946), alongside his brother Ashok Kumar.
- He gained recognition as a comic actor with films like Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi (1958) and Padosan (1968), where his impeccable timing and hilarious antics earned him accolades.
- Despite his comedic roles, he also excelled in serious and romantic roles, showcasing his versatility.
Music Direction and Production
- Kishore Kumar composed music for several films, including Jhumroo (1961) and Door Ka Rahi (1971).
- He wrote and directed movies, often infusing them with his unique, eccentric style.
Unique Style
- Kishore was known for his unconventional personality, often experimenting with his singing style and incorporating yodeling, which he learned from Western artists.
- His ability to modulate his voice to suit different actors and scenarios was unmatched.
Personal Life
- Marriages:
- Kishore Kumar married four times:
- Ruma Guha Thakurta (1950–1958), a Bengali singer and actress.
- Madhubala (1960–1969), the iconic Bollywood actress, until her death.
- Yogeeta Bali (1975–1978), an actress.
- Leena Chandavarkar (1980–1987), an actress, with whom he had two sons, Amit Kumar and Sumit Kumar.
- Kishore Kumar married four times:
- Personality:
- He was known for his eccentric and introverted nature, often shunning public appearances and living a reclusive life in his later years.
Awards and Recognitions
- Kishore Kumar won 8 Filmfare Awards for Best Male Playback Singer, a record that stood for decades.
- He was posthumously awarded the Lata Mangeshkar Award by the Madhya Pradesh government in 1985.
- Honored with numerous lifetime achievement awards for his contributions to Indian cinema.
Death
- Kishore Kumar passed away on October 13, 1987, at the age of 58, following a heart attack. He had just announced his retirement and was planning to return to Khandwa, his hometown.
Legacy
- Kishore Kumar’s contribution to Indian music and cinema is monumental. His songs continue to resonate with audiences of all generations, making him a timeless figure in Indian cultural history.
- A government museum dedicated to him, the Kishore Kumar Memorial, was inaugurated in Khandwa to honor his legacy.
Famous Quote
“You are my music, my voice, my soul. Without you, there is no me.”
— Kishore Kumar (dedicated to music)
Kishore Kumar remains an irreplaceable legend, celebrated for his unmatched talent and larger-than-life persona.