Exclusive: Sumanji was the last great singer of that era: Kavita Krishnamurti remembers Suman Kalyanpur

As the news of Suman Kalyanpur’s passing spread on Sunday evening, the music fraternity paused to remember a voice that had shaped the soundscape of Hindi cinema. Revered for her silken vocals, emotional nuance and remarkable versatility, Kalyanpur occupied a distinctive place in Indian playback singing for decades. Among those paying tribute was singer Kavita Krishnamurti, who reflected on Kalyanpur’s enduring legacy, unique musical identity and the timeless appeal of songs that continue to resonate across generations. Kalyanpur died at her Mumbai residence due to age-related ailments. She was 89.A UNIQUE VOICE IN THE GOLDEN ERARemembering Kalyanpur, Kavita said the singer established her own identity despite being contemporaneous with some of India's biggest musicians. "Suman Kalyanpurji was a great singer in her own right. I remember growing up listening to many of her songs on the radio, alongside those of Lataji and Ashaji. I was too young at the time to assess these artists and their talents. It was only later that I realised what a wonderful singer she was. She made a significant mark despite Lataji and Ashaji being two giants of that era.She added, "Sumanji sang many beautiful songs in her own inimitable style, and had a very sweet and melodious voice." SONGS THAT STAYED WITH GENERATIONSSeveral of Kalyanpur's songs remain among Kavita's personal favourites, with memories dating back to her childhood. "There were a few songs of hers that I particularly loved as a child. One was Aaj Hun Aaye Balma with Rafi Saab. Another song, which I have occasionally performed on stage with Manada, was Tum Jo Aao Toh Pyaar Aa Jaaye, Zindagi Mein Bahaar Aa Jaaye."She also highlighted other songs she admired. She said, "Dil Ne Phir Yaad Kiya was beautifully sung. In Thehriye Hosh Mein Aa Loon Toh Chale Jaiyega, the antaras are especially lovely."The singer noted that Kalyanpur's repertoire was filled with enduring melodies. "She made a remarkable contribution to the industry through songs such as Na Na Karte Pyaar Tumhin Se Kar Baithe and many others. I have also heard some of her Marathi songs."A LEGACY OF DEDICATION AND GRACEFor Kavita, Kalyanpur's long and accomplished career reflected her talent and commitment to music. "Sumanji was a very talented, very dedicated and committed artiste to have sung so many songs in the span of so many years," she said. Calling her death a significant loss to Indian music, Kavita added, "Today, it's definitely a very, very big loss and I would say she's the last great singer of that era." She concluded with a heartfelt prayer: "May her soul rest in peace. Om Shanti."A BRIEF MEETING, A LASTING IMPRESSIONAlthough the two singers never worked together, Kavita recalled Kalyanpur as someone who left a positive impression. "Unfortunately, I never had the opportunity to sing with her. I met her briefly once, but never got to know her personally. However, from what little I saw of her, she was very dignified and seemed like a wonderful person."