NE ENTERTAINMENT BUREAU
Veteran singer-composer Bappi Lahiri, who popularised disco music in India in the 80s and 90s, has died following multiple health issues, a doctor treating him said on Wednesday. He was 69.
Lahiri died on Tuesday night at the CritiCare Hospital in Juhu.
Bappi Lahiri was hospitalised in April last year as well after he had tested positive for coronavirus.
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. pic.twitter.com/fLjjrTZ8Jq
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 16, 2022
“Lahiri had been admitted to the hospital for a month and was discharged on Monday. But his health deteriorated on Tuesday and his family called for a doctor to visit their home. He was brought to the hospital. He had multiple health issues. He died due to OSA (obstructive sleep apnea) shortly before midnight,” Dr Deepak Namjoshi, director of the hospital, said.
In the demise of Shri Bappi Lahiri, India has lost yet another veteran singer and composer. Bappi Da will always be remembered for his foot-tapping numbers. My deepest condolences to his family and followers. Om Shanti! pic.twitter.com/qGuMCkfdfB
— Vice President of India (@VPIndia) February 16, 2022
The singer-composer, a familiar figure for many with his trademark gold chains that he wore for luck and his sunglasses, was known for his songs in several films of the late 70s-80s. These included ‘Chalte Chalte, Disco Dancer,’ and ‘Sharaabi.’
His last Bollywood song was ‘Bhankas’ for the 2020 film ‘Baaghi 3.’
V-P, PM offer condolences on the demise of Bappi Lahiri
Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have expressed deep grief over the demise of singer and music composer Bappi Lahiri. Union Ministers Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah and others also expressed grief over the demise of Lahiri.
In a tweet, the Prime Minister Modi said, “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.”
Vice president Naidu said, “In the demise of Shri Bappi Lahiri, India has lost yet another veteran singer and composer. Bappi Da will always be remembered for his foot-tapping numbers. My deepest condolences to his family and followers. Om Shanti!.”
Home Minister Shah said, “Pained to learn about the passing away of legendary singer and composer, Bappi Lahiri Ji. His demise leaves a big void in the world of Indian music. Bappi Da will be remembered for his versatile singing and lively nature. My condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”
Expressing his grief, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, “Deeply saddened by the demise of renowned musician Bappi Lahiri. He decorated many songs with his tunes. He had a fine and deep understanding of music. Bappida was always aware of social concerns as well. My condolences to his family and fans in this hour of grief. Peace!”
BJP chief J.P. Nadda said, “Deeply saddened by the demise of popular music composer & legendary singer, Bappi Lahiri Ji. He will be remembered for his iconic singing. My condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”
After hearing about Bappi Lahiri’s demise, several fans took to social media and paid tribute to the legendary singer.
Stating that Bappi Lahiri had given him numerous chartbusters that had immensely contributed to his films’ popularity, Telugu superstar Chiranjeevi Konidela on Wednesday paid tributes to India’s disco king,
Taking to Twitter, Chiranjeevi wrote, “Rest in Peace, Bappi da!’” and posted a note in which he had penned his heartfelt condolence message.
The note read, “Deeply anguished at the demise of legendary music director and singer Bappi Lahiri. I had a great association with Bappi da.”
“He gave numerous chartbusters for me which contributed immensely to my films’ popularity. He will always be remembered for his unique style and his great enthusiasm for life which reflected in his music. My heartfelt condolences to all his near and dear.”
Chiranjeevi wasn’t the only one to express his condolences from the Telugu film industry. One of the first to react to the news of the music director’s demise was actor Allari Naresh.
He said, “The legend who brought disco to us…Deeply saddened to hear of his demise. Rest in beats Bappi Lahiri Ji.”
Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit also took to Twitter and expressed shock at the news. “Shocked to hear about the demise of rockstar #BappiLahiri ji. Can’t believe my next-door neighbour is no more.”
Last rites to be performed on Thursday after his son returns from US
His cremation will be held tomorrow, February 17, at Pawan Hans Crematorium as the family is waiting for his musician-son Bappa Lahiri to return from the US, confirmed action director Mahendra Verma. At present, his mortal remains are at his Juhu house.
Bappi Lahiri is survived by two children – a son, Bappa and a daughter, Rema Lahiri. Since Bappa is in the US, the family is waiting for his arrival.
