Musical genius A poignant tribute

Prabodh Chandra Dey, who became popular by his stage name Manna Dey, passed away at his adopted home – Bangalore, in the wee hours on Thursday. For his die-hard fans, he has left behind a string of melodious songs in almost all the languages, for which he will always be remembered.

The death of the doyen of music industry, who is most remembered for evergreen hits like Mud mud ke na dekh, Pyaar hua ikraar hua and Yeh Raat Bheegi Bheegi, Tere bina aag yeh chandni, Ae bhai zara dekh ke chalo... just to mention a few, is being mourned by one and all.

His most popular songs in Kannada Jayathe jayathe jayathe sathyameva jayathe and Kuhu kuhu yenutha haaduva kogile, can never be forgotten. 

Artistes from the film fraternity pay tribute to the legendary singer by remembering his immense contribution.  

Raveena Tandon, actress: “I think Manna Dey’s songs and legacy have paved the way for generations to come. His songs will remain evergreen in the hearts and minds of the people of his generation, like my father. Indian music industry has lost a great soul.”

Shivarajkumar, actor: “My father was very fond of Manna Dey and his songs will always be alive in our hearts. He has inculcated a lot of values in the music and film industry through his work. We are fortunate enough to have legends like Manna Dey, for future generations to emulate. We will miss him.”     

Waheeda Rehman, actress: “It is unfortunate that we have lost a good soul and a great singer. This is life and it has to go on. Everybody has to go one day and I am glad that he didn’t have to suffer too much but had a peaceful end.”

Resul Pookutty, film sound designer: “I can’t believe that a phenomenon like Manna Dey is no more. He was truly a son-in-law for all the Malayalis who have been singing Manasa Maine Varu... (Manna Dey was married to a Malayali).

There is not a single singer and composer in history who has sung so many songs in various languages. The generations he influenced will remember him with countless gratitude. The voice that sang Mud Mud Ka Na Dekh will remain with us always.” 

Usha Uthup, singer: “This is the most horrible piece of news we woke up to on October 24. He was too large a man in his talent and his passing away has left a void, which can never be filled. He always sung every song with a twist and the image of a soft-spoken man with a muffler and cap will always be precious to me. I will miss him.”   

Prabhu Deva, film director: “As a technician, you can never miss and forget a voice you’ve heard and loved so much. He’s a great soul and it has always been memorable to work with him. It’s a great loss.”

Hema Malini, actress: “He was a wonderful singer and an exceptional human being.”