Kishore Kumar was a multi faceted genius of the Indian film industry. He was an inimitable comedian, a melodious composer, a perfect director, a sensitive lyricist and above all a brilliant and matchless play back singer. So immense has been his contribution that even after 20 years of his death he is still remembered with great admiration and reverence.

Kishore Kumar was born in Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh, on the 4th of August 1929. When he was in college, his elder brother, Ashok Kumar was already an established actor. After passing out, he decided to make a foray into the film industry. While he did small roles, renowned music director Khem Chand Prakash spotted the singing talent in him.

He began to hone the hidden talent in the young boy. Later on he was roped in by S.D. Burman. Kishore in the meanwhile managed to carve out a niche for himself as an upcoming comedian. In 1958 he produced and directed a movie named Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi. The movie was a block buster. Kishore Kumar had finally established himself as a number one comedy actor.

While acting he also sang many super hit songs for the then super star Dev Anand. After a string of failures( except for Padosan 1968) he decided to give up acting as a career and instead concentrate on play back singing. Then came the first major break as a play back singer. The song Mere Sapno Ki Rani from Aradhana, swept the nation. Kishore Kumar-the singer had arrived. Like a giant he strode over the music industry, thereafter. His songs became such a rage that star cast hardly mattered in films. Almost all the famous directors, music directors, music companies and producers relied heavily on him to deliver hits. So touching and soulful was his rendition that a trained classical singer like Rafi was relegated to the second spot. Kishore Kumar’s rich mellifluous voice and matchless style helped him retain his number one spot till his premature death in 1987.

Died he may have, but the legend lives on…..!