Guest article by Dr Rajesh Deshpande as a tribute to one of the last of doyens of playback singing of the Golden Era
(When Suman Kalyanpur passed away recently, I suddenly felt that with her one of the last links with the Golden Era of playback singing is gone. She was a tragic figure, the similarity of her voice with Lata Mangeshkar was both a curse and boon for her. Curse, because when original was available, why go for a duplicate! And boon, because when the mighty Mangeshkar had her famous spats with all and sundry because of her own hubris, Suman Kalyanpur got a chance to sing some exquisite songs. I thought SOY had to write a tribute on her. I did not have the same urge when Asha Bhosle passed away a couple of months earlier, because she had created her own niche, and there were a good number of articles on her on SOY thanks to some of her inveterate fans.
I realised Suman Kalyanpur enjoyed tremendous respect in Marathi music, and some Marathi knowing person can do proper justice to her. I am happy to say that Dr Deshpande accepted my request to write a guest article on her. Her work is so vast that it was not possible to fit into one article. He proposes to write two articles, one on solos and the other on duets.
As the SOY readers are aware, Dr Deshpande is a pathologist by profession and works in a healthcare MNC, based out of Bombay. Thank you Dr Deshpane for a superb article on Suman Kalyanpur. – AK)
Within two months of the passing away of Asha Bhosle, we lost another illustrious singer who mesmerised us with her golden voice since the 50s. Suman Kalyanpur, the last pillar of the golden era of Hindi film music left for heavenly abode on May 31, 2026 at the age of 89 due to age-related ailments.
Looks like Sundays have been bringing us the sad news as all the 3 queens of melody (Lata, Asha and Suman) passed away on a Sunday. A singer par excellence, Suman Kalyanpur’s career began in 1954, peaked in the 60s and she retired in 80s, having sung in Hindi, Marathi and other regional languages.
She was born as Suman Hemmady on 28 January 1937 in Kolkata. The family moved to Dhaka and then to Mumbai, where they finally settled. Besides music, she was also interested in painting and got admission in the Sir J. J. School of Arts for higher studies. She received primary training in music from family friend and composer Keshavrao Bhole. She later took professional training from Navrang Nagpurkar and Ustad Abdul Rehman Khan. She got an opportunity to sing for a Marathi film Shukrachi Chandani, which unfortunately got shelved. However, composer Mohammad Shafi had heard her singing during the recording and offered her songs for the film Mangu (1954). Her first release was Darwaza. She also sang a few lines uncredited for the film version of the song Mohabbat kar lo jee bhar lo of Aar Paar under OP Nayyar.
Her career slowly took off with songs from Bulo C Rani, Chitragupt, S N Tripathi and other composers of low-budget and B-grade films. Being immensely talented and versatile, she proved her worth in song after song. However, she remained often underrated and under recognized. And that was because of the uncanny resemblance of her voice to that of Lata Mangeshkar’s. The vocal similarity to Lata was extraordinary, leading to many of her popular songs being attributed to the senior singer. Often the composers were looking at her as Lata’s replacement. This similarity was both a boon and bane to her.
Boon, because she got to sing more songs and many excellent ones as Lata was either unavailable, unaffordable or was involved in tiffs and rifts. Her career took off from 1960 onwards with 1961-62 having many superlative Suman solos. The mid-60s was her career’s best period, especially with her becoming the duet partner of Mohd. Rafi. Lata had stropped singing with Rafi due to their dispute over royalty. Even top composers offered her songs.
Bane, because the composers always preferred the senior or original. Once the Rafi-Lata dispute ended, they dropped Suman, returning to the Lata fold. Still, Suman, in her own quiet dignified way, continued with her career singing with sincerity and loyalty without expressing any disappointment or resentment. She never received the credit she deserved and often found that her songs had been dropped from the records or not picturized. Her career started sliding down from mid-70s and she decided to call it a day in the 80s after being sidelined and disillusioned.
An introvert and recluse, she remained away from public memory for the next couple of decades. It was Mangala Khadilkar, a Marathi media anchor and author, who brought Suman back into limelight with a biography on her – “Suman Sugandh”. She also motivated the legendary singer to participate in stage functions, concerts, interviews etc., bringing her back into the public eye.
Suman’s contributions and achievements were also recognized by the Government through the Padma Bhushan Award. She also received the Lata Mangeshkar award, Ga Di MA award etc.
A tribute to this great singer and wonderful personality by listing her solos for different music composers:
1. Mohammad Shafi:
Koi pukare dheere se tujhe – Mangu (1954) L: Saba Afghani
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SHfOTzEFnYQ&list=RDSHfOTzEFnYQ
This beautiful lori song has the distinction of being her first recorded film song. Mohammad Shafi got her to sing 3 songs for this film. However, he opted out of the film and O P Nayyar came in as the composer. This lullaby, confidently sung by Suman, remained in the film.
2. Nashad (Shaukat Dehlvi):
Chhoote tumse to lo hum sabse nata – Darwaza (1954) L: Majrooh Sultanpuri
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2IW_KQTWlE&list=RDH2IW_KQTWlE
Though her first recorded song was for Mangu, Darwaza was released first. The first song that she sang for Darwaza was a duet with Talat Mehmood, who was impressed with her singing at a function and had recommended her to HMV.
She had two solos in the film. This song stands out for her soulful singing, in a style similar to Lata’s.
3. Suresh Talwar:
Meri preet mera pyar – Teerthyatra (1958) L: Anjaan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7qnkA_d_No4&list=RD7qnkA_d_No4
Suman does full justice to this beautiful composition with her energetic singing. The song was quite popular.
4. C Ramchandra:
Sanwariya re apni Meera ko bhool na jana – Aanchal (1960) L: Pradeep
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XDjmW-iOJfY&list=RDXDjmW-iOJfY
C Ramchandra did not use Suman much, even after his split from Lata. This is a dual version song, a happy and a sad version. Both the songs are sung beautifully by Suman. From the music as well as the singing style, it does appear that CR must have composed the song with Lata in mind.
5. SD Burman:
Chhodo chhodo mori baiyan – Miya Biwi Razi (1960) L: Shailendra
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZyY3wD19Ew&list=RDMZyY3wD19Ew
Though one instantly remembers Na tum hamein jaano when we talk of SD Burman -Suman association, Chhodo chhodo mori baiyan is their first song together. Of course, Na tum hamein jano is a wonderful song which is considered as her most popular number. Yet, this song has been sung beautifully by her, bringing forth all the requisite expressions and nuances, especially since it required her to sing in a manner different from her usual style. The song is quite enjoyable.
6. Sardar Malik:
Likh de piya ka naam – Saranga (1960) L: Bharat Vyas
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqg85b4GS2Q&t=1s
The film has other popular songs, yet Suman is able to make her presence felt with this solitary number which has an excellent tune. She has sung it really well, bringing out the right emotions.
7. Dattaram:
Beete huye din kuchh aise hi hain – First Love (1961) L: Gulshan Bawra
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERIqO9cSqws&list=RDERIqO9cSqws
Dattaram and Suman came together for the first time with Kala Aadmi (1960). This song from First Love is an excellent composition and is a beautifully rendered song which leaves a long-lasting impact. Other notable songs by this duo include Kyun uda jaata hai aanchal from Shriman Satyawadi (1960), Itne bade jahaan mein from Dark Street (1961) and Sunle Bapu ye paigham from Baalak (1969).
8. S Mohinder:
Jhoom ke piya ki gali aaji main – Jai Bhawani (1961) L: Gopal Singh Nepali
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=isPgiAGeV1I&list=RDisPgiAGeV1I
A perfect example of a wonderful song in a B-grade film. Suman comes up trumps with a perfect rendition making the song memorable. S. Mohinder is able to bring out the best of her singing.
9. Ghulam Mohammad:
Dil gham se jal raha hai jale – Shama (1961) L: Kaifi Azmi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GtLP3DXE7bE&list=RDGtLP3DXE7bE
A beautiful melancholic composition by Ghulam Mohammad which has Suman singing for Nimmi. She has been able to convey the pathos excellently. The song was and is quite popular and contributed to the upward graph of the singer.
10. Babul:
Ye phoolon ka gajra ye mera singar– Sara Jahaan Hamara (1961) L: Anjum Jaipuri
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lqor3md9GeU&list=RDlqor3md9GeU
The composer may be small-time and the film may be a low-budget one, but the music and Suman’s rendition make it a top class number. Her singing is flawless and endearing, ranking it among her best. The beats and the rhythm contribute to make it a charming song
11. Chitragupt:
Main hoon akeli kis kisko samjhaun – Main Shadi Karne Chala (1962) L: Majrooh Sultanpuri
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ag-eG24HSKQ&list=RDag-eG24HSKQ
A simple catchy tune, rendered effortlessly by Suman. The song is pleasing to the ears. The video is not available but possibly, a dance number. Chitragupt offered her couple of duets in 1955 after her singing debut in 1954. Since then, she continued singing for him. Suman did a great rendition of a mujra song Dagabazi piya tere dil mein hai in Aulad (1968) for Chitragupt.
12. Shankar-Jaikishan:
Juhi ki kali meri ladli – Dil Ek Mandir (1963) L: Shailendra
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAdcqn3CezM&list=RDeAdcqn3CezM
Suman sang under SJ for the first time in Dil Ek Mandir. She joined Rafi in a duet due to the Lata-Rafi rift. SJ also gave her two solos. This sweet little number centers around a child and has interesting lyrics of poetic imagery. Suman has sung it beautifully in her own style and in a voice that doesn’t sound like Lata. The song leaves its impact despite two popular Lata solos.
13. Roshan:
Yunhi dil ne chaha tha rona rulana – Dil Hi To Jai (1963) L: Sahir Ludhiavi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7RIA5Ew88K4&list=RD7RIA5Ew88K4
The song shares the tune with the duet from the film – Chura le na tumko but stands tall on its own. Sahir’s lyrics of unrequited love, which were apparently based on his personal pain, are converted into a beautiful composition by Roshan perfectly complemented by Suman’s excellent singing.
14. Pandit Shivram:
Apne piya ki main to bani re saanwariya – Kan Kan Mein Bhagwan (1963) L: Bharat Vyas
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J0fBZBI14wk&list=RDJ0fBZBI14wk
Another hit song from a small-=budget film and lesser-known composer. The song boasts of some nice lyrics and showcases Suman’s excellent expressions and versatility.
15. Snehal Bhatkar:
Haal-e-dil unko sunana tha – Fariyad (1964) L: Kidar Sharma
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BX3wIref6Uo&list=RDBX3wIref6Uo
A classic composition, with wonderful music and lyrics meriting special appreciation. This can be counted as one of her best songs. She has delivered her best here with the right expressions and perfect rendition.
16. Khayyam:
Bujha diye hain khud apne hathon – Shagun (1964) L: Sahir Ludhianvi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5Vn-c90Cq0&list=RDG5Vn-c90Cq0
This can be termed as one of her best sad songs. Suman conveys the pathos and helplessness through her voice brilliantly. Sahir’s lyrics and Waheeda Rehman’s acting complement Suman’s excellent rendition. Jo humpe guzarti hain from Mohabbat Isko Kehte Hain (1965) is another lovely song composed by Khayyam for Suman.
17. Jani Babu Qawwal
Mere mehboob na ja – Noor Mahal (1965) L: Saba Afghani
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6qdlcfvLdk&list=RD-6qdlcfvLdk
One of her most popular and known songs; it is one of the best haunting songs of Hindi films, though part of an utterly incoherent film. Suman has sung with the right amount of emotion and is in perfect control as the song also has high and low octaves and silences.
18. Kalyanji-Anandji:
Kya hai is bansuriya mein jo mujh mein nahin hai – Geet (1970) L: Prem Dhawan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSypyvKcVP8&list=RDkSypyvKcVP
A nice stage song depicting Radha’s love for Krishna. Suman is able to effectively express her passionate feelings in a sensitive way. Kalyanji-Anandji offered songs to Suman intermittently in the 60s. right from Satta Bazar (1959). She first sang for Kalyanji in Post Box 999 (1958). Most popular were the duets she sang for them.
19. Usha Khanna:
Paani mein jale mora gora badan – Munimji (1972) L: Hasrat Jaipuri
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKTjd1c_4_A&list=RDFKTjd1c_4_A
A perfect example of her versatility, she could carry off this sensuous number effortlessly. Usha Khanna gave her many songs, both solos and duets. Aye Zindagi ke saathi (Fareb 1968), Barkha bairan (Sabak 1973) and the two songs from Dada (1978) – Allah karam karna and Humne mana humpe saajan were quite popular.
20. Bappi Lahiri:
Saathi mere saathi – Veerana (1988) L: Indivar
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4oQL3qU1hZE&list=RD4oQL3qU1hZE
This is her last released hindi film solo. A well-sung haunting number in a Ramsay horror film. This may not feature in anyone’s Suman Songs list, but I like the song. It was indeed a pleasant surprise to hear her voice when this film was released. It is indeed unfortunate that the composers sidelined her after the 70s, leading to her retirement.
Some names could not be covered as the list was becoming too long. She sang solos for some top composers like Naushad, RD Burman, Laxmikant-Pyarelal but those songs did not become too popular.
The discussion of Suman Kalyanpur solos is incomplete without the mention of her Marathi songs. Specially for us Maharashtrians but even for fans from other regions, her film and non-film Marathi songs constitute a vast priceless treasure of melody, which continue to be popular and mesmerise us even today,
Concluding this tribute with five of my favorite Marathi songs:
21. Vasant Pawar:
Are sansar sansar – Manini (1961) L: Bahinabai Chaudhari
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rQ9OUQzm0k&list=RD-rQ9OUQzm0k
Suman Kalyanpur does a soulful rendition of this classic song penned by renowned poetess of Maharashtra, Bahinabai Chaudhari. The profound metaphorical lyrics appear so simple yet touching in Suman’s voice.
22. Vasant Prabhu:
Jithe sagara dharni milte – Putra Vhava Aisa (1961) L: P. Sawalaram
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3-vtWptq4Y&list=RDw3-vtWptq4Y
One of my top favorites of Suman’s songs, it has become iconic over the years. Perfect amalgamation of top-notch lyrics, music and singing.
23. Shrinivas Khale:
Deva daya tujhi ki hi – Bolki Bahuli (1961) L: GD Madgulkar
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DoizSjLl6R4&list=RDDoizSjLl6R4
A song of gratitude towards the Almighty, Suman sings with utmost compassion reflecting unexpected happiness, attributed to divine intervention.
24. Sudhir Phadke:
Kashi karu swagata – Mumbaicha Jawai (1970) L: GD Madgulkar
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=59eBDF0ylWA&list=RD59eBDF0ylWA
A popular evergreen song! The excellent rendition effectively conveys of the anticipated diffidence and joy of a new bride awaiting her husband’s arrival. This film was remade in Hindi as Piya Ka Ghar. The corresponding Hindi song was Piya ka ghar hai ye sung by Lata.
25. N. Datta:
Nimboni chya jhadamage chandra – Bala Gau Kashi Angai (1977) L: Madhusudan Kalelkar
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEqmlWMU0Gw&list=RDmEqmlWMU0Gw
This should be her most successful Marathi song of the late 70s. She sang many Hindi songs for N. Datta but this one stands out for her soulful rendition and popularity.
Suman Kalyanpur has left behind a wonderful legacy of immortal songs which will continue to be heard and enjoyed for years to come.
Acknowledgement and Disclaimer
The YouTube links have been given only for the listening pleasure of the music lovers. The author or this blog has no commercial interest, and do not claim, directly or indirectly, any copyright over these songs, which vest with the respective copyright holders.
Rajeshji, thank you for such a wonderful tribute to Suman Kalyanpur. Her incredible voice and timeless contributions to film music deserve our full attention and appreciation. I’ve browsed through your post and will definitely listen to the songs attentively later. Joining you in paying tribute to her. Hope to be back soon.
From the long list of composers for whom she sang which includes S D Burman, Roshan , Naushad , OP Nayyar , C Ramachandra and Madan Mohan it can be concluded that her singing was accepted by all eminent composers but the only thing is that she did not get many songs from SDB or OPN which could have enhanced her value much more . But still it is good!
In Kannada SK has sung a solo for the movie KALAVATHI ( ಕಲಾವತಿ ), 1964.
Renowned composer G K Venkatesh had Laxman Barlekar as his assistant for this movie. ( Interestingly, in 1967, he independently gave music to the Kannada movie KRANTIVEERA SANGOLLI RAYANA RAYANNA ( ಕ್ರಾಂತಿವೀರ ಸಂಗೊಳ್ಳಿ ರಾಯಣ್ಣ ) where he had 3 Mangeshkar sisters sing . Lata ( 2 solos ) and Usha ( 1 solo ) never sang in Kannada afterwards. Asha ( 1 solo ) sang for a few more Kannada movies later. Manna Dey also sang 2 solos.
KALAVATHI.
SK sang poem of Betageri Krishna Sharma.
Odanadi bekendu midukiye midukide…
( ಒಡನಾಡಿ ಬೇಕೆಂದು ಮಿಡುಕಿಯೇ ಮಿಡುಕಿದೆ….).
Manna Dey sang a poem of Jnanapitha winner, Rashtra Kavi Kuvempu in the movie.
Rajesh ji,
Nice write up. Good song selection.
He = Laxman Barlekar.
Losing Suman Kalyanpur feels like the closing of the final chapter of our music industry’s Golden Era. (Perhaps we still have Usha Khanna and Sudha Malhotra?)
It’s said that she was underrated or lacked opportunities. While it is true she faced unfair industry politics, a look at the sheer numbers actually offers a very reassuring and comforting perspective.
According to data available on internet and public domain (which may not be accurate, so please correct me if anything is wrong), Suman ji sang around 3,000 songs across Hindi and regional languages. To put that into perspective, her total output is virtually equivalent to that of Manna Dey and Kishore Kumar (who sang around 2,700–3,000 songs). Furthermore, her output is more than double that of Mukesh (around 1,300 songs) and nearly four times that of Talat Mahmood.
Looking at it this way, she was by no means inferior or left behind in terms of volume and reach. It is incredibly heartening to know that her situation was nothing like that of the tragic Mubarak Begum, who was limited to around 200 songs and tragically had to face poverty. Suman ji, by contrast, left behind a massive, prolific body of work.
However, the awards she received arrived far too late. While Padma Bhushan was well-deserved, a singer of her stature easily merited Padma Vibhushan (or even better, Bharat Ratna) and Dadasaheb Phalke Award. But she isn’t alone. The legendary Hemant Kumar turned down Padma Shri and later Padma Bhushan because he felt they were offered long after his peak.
Ultimately, looking at the grand canvas of her life, Suman Kalyanpur held a secure and highly respected position in Indian music history. She lived a long, graceful and dignified life, earned the admiration of generations of listeners, and left behind a treasure trove of immortal songs.
JAIDEV.
Main toh kar kar binti hari re…
JEO AUR JEENE DO, 1969.
SAPAN JAGMOHAN.
Jeevan hai ek bhool sajanwa bin tere…
CHETNA.
GANESH.
Man ye gaaya woh tarana..
CHALAK, 1973.
Under SJ my choice would have been:
Behna ne bhai ki kalai pe pyar bandha hai…
RESHAM KI DORI, 1974.
Swar ji,
Agree with all of your observations except the mention of Bharat Ratna.
Of course, to each his own!
A wonderful post, Dr Deshpande, in the memory of a great artist. You have put together a beautiful collection of songs, some of which are new to me. The Marathis songs are the icing on the cake.
I recall that AK had, quite some time back, done a post on her ‘Haal-e dil unko sunana tha’ and compared it with a Lata song with similar lyrics.
My personal favourite remains ‘Sharabi sharabi yeh sawan ka mausam.’ Roshan brought out the best in her, as in the songs of ‘Dil hi to hai.’ In this one her voice is quite distinctive from Lata’s, with a flute like sweetness.
Rajeshji,
An excellent tribute to Suman Kalyanpur, with a wealth of information that was pleasantly new to me.
Suman Kalyanpur was an exceptional singer who held her own despite the dominance of the Mangeshkar sisters. She was also undoubtedly a classier human being, remaining above the divisive and dirty politics of the film industry. As many others have mentioned before, her misfortune was that she sounded uncannily like Lata Mangeshkar, which meant that more often than not, her songs were unfairly—and rather lazily—mistaken for those of the queen bee. This, in turn, resulted in her remaining in relative obscurity, even though the sheer number of songs she recorded tells a different story.
However, as Rajeshji has aptly demonstrated, she was a highly respected artist in the eyes of the leading music directors of her time, and her songs—whether solos or duets—were invariably of high quality, regardless of the actress for whom she sang.
Once a particular type of voice—that of Lata Mangeshkar—had become established as the preferred voice for actresses, it was extremely difficult for any other singer to enter the arena, despite some notable experiments, such as Sharda. Many female playback singers of the past era were pushed to the kerbside as a result of this bias. Suman Kalyanpur, however, not only entered the arena but dared to challenge the status quo and, judging from the numbers provided by Swarji @5, succeeded with aplomb.
Her songs and her personality will continue to shine for us as we bid farewell to another diamond from the golden era of Indian film music. May her soul rest in eternal peace.
@5,
I would add Usha and Meena Mangeshkar however less their body of work would be.
According to one article, Suman ji’s total output in all languages is 740 with 140 of them being duets with Rafi only.
These figures seem plausible to me.
Dr. Rajesh,
Many Thanks for this apt tribute.
Posting one of my favourite songs which is already mentioned in the post. The slower version is a a better treat, imo.
https://youtu.be/cbd–OuSk6s?si=CCld_pfqhss5vYAJ
Regards
mahesh
3000 songs seemed like too much to me, too. Wanted to ask Swar ji the source of information.
Swarji @5
With all due respect, having looked at various online sources including Wikipedia and ChatGPT, the number of songs you have suggested for Suman Kalyanpur (3000) seems way too high. Especially when you say she has sung more songs than Kishore Kumar. Most sources say around 750+ but less than a 1000.
Perhaps the statisticians par excellence on SoY can throw some light on it.
A great singer, a legend, lives immortal in our hearts, that is all, and nothing else. Anything is written about her is less only and do not suffice. May her soul rest in peace in peace in Heavenly abode. Uma
Subodh @8,
Yes. I wrote very early in my blogging life on Suman Kalyanpur, with a somewhat provocative title, Suman Kalyanpur outshines Lata Mangeshkar. Its sub-title was Haal-e-dil unko sunana tha, sunaya na gaya (song #15 in the present post). I contrasted this with Lata Mangeshkar’s Haal-e-dil yun unhein sunaya na gaya from Jahan Ara (1964), composed by Madan Mohan.
Dear Readers,
I find your comments have not been responded yet. Dr Deshpande is travelling on work. He would respond soon.
A very apt tribute to Suman Kalyanpur. You have summed up her collaboration with different composers nicely. And as Subodh ji has said the part about marathi songs is an icing on the cake.
On AIR marathi there used be a program on devotional songs ( भक्तीगीते). Most of the marathi households listened to the program early in the morning and there would be hardly a day which did not include one of the songs rendered by her. I particularly remember the song पक्षिणी पहाटे चारियासी जाये. Her association with Dashrath Pujari produced number of delicate melodies like केतकीच्या बनी तिथे, चल उठ रे मुकुंदा, जगी ज्यास कोणी नाही and many more
One of her popular hindi solo ( a tandem, in fact) is
Barkha bairan jara tham ke baraso – Sabak – Usha Khanna – Sawan kumar
https://youtu.be/p0gRhUfVXwk?si=CM4UNCvCZaIm-0U1
Incidentally there is some similarity in the lyrics of this song and the marathi song of the duo Suman Kalyanpur and Ashok Patki रिमझिम झरती श्रावणधारा .
AKji and All Readers,
My apologies for the delay in response to your comments.
I am currently out of the country for an International Medical Congress.
Will try to reply during the course of the remaining day today.
I am thankful to all for the positive feedback and appreciation.
Thank you, AKji, for the opportunity to pen this tribute to the legendary singer.
Rahul ji,
Another tandem.
Title song of
JAHAN PYAR MILE.
Though most of the female versions are less popular than the male ones, this was fairly popular on the airwaves in it’ s time.
Venkataramanji @1,
Thanks a lot for your quick comment and nice words of appreciation.
Your feedback does mean a lot.
Suman Kalyanpur’s valuable contribution to music indeed deserves a rich tribute.
Looking forward to your detailed comment on the songs and the post.
KB @2.
Thanks a lot for your comment.
Barring Roshan, the other top composers mentioned by you gave her only a few songs and she did full justice to them.
However, they mainly used her when Lata was busy or not available.
And OPN did not offer her any song after those few lines for the Aar Paar number.
Dr. Shetty @3
Thanks a lot for your kind words of appreciation.
Always grateful for your support and inputs.
And thanks for sharing her Kannada song as well as the information about the Kannada songs of Mangeshkar sisters and Manna Dey.
I was not aware of this.
ANU MALIK.
Phool rahon mein bikhar jaate hain
Jab wo aate hain…
AAPAS KI BAAT, 1983?
ROBIN BANNERJEE.
Ghadi do ghadi ki khushi mangte hain…
PHIR AAYA TOOFAN, 1073.
A rare ‘ beggar song ‘ from SK.
Swar @5
Thanks a lot for your detailed comment and sharing your thoughts on Suman K.
I do agree that the awards come late. This has happened with many other film personalities. too. Still better late than never, and definitely preferred in their lifetime rather than posthumous.
However, as others have also mentioned, 3000 songs do not seem realistic. the number would be close to 1000.
All said and done, Suman Kalyanpur did live well, a dignified life. Though she was under-recognized during her active period, she was visible and remembered in the later years unlike many others.
Dr. Shetty @6
Thanks for adding 3 more composers. I was considering the songs by Ganesh and Sapan Jagmohan but finally did not include them as the list was already long.
Here are the songs:
Main to kar kar binti haari re – Jaidev
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y484q4ZRtW0&list=RDy484q4ZRtW0
Jeevan hai ek bhool sajanwa – Sapan Jagmohan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVJxQONRVfw&list=RDWVJxQONRVfw
Man gaaye wo tarana – Ganesh
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M-_S4GBf-Go&list=RDM-_S4GBf-Go
And I too like Behna ne bhai ki kalayi se from Resham Ki Dori by SJ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EievyYSpbuM&list=RDEievyYSpbuM
There is a correction required in my comment. केतकीच्या बनी तिथे is composed by Ashok Patki and not Dasharath Pujari.
C ARJUN.
Tum agar aa sako toh aa jao…
EK SAAL PAHLE, 1965.
A nice ‘ haunting/ haunted ‘ song.
G S KOHLI.
Jaadugar tera jadu nirala..
JUNG AUR AMAN, 1968.
For a few prominent composers, SK has sung only duets
Yes very fine article on Suman Kalyanpur. A legend in my opinion.
Certainly the last pillar of Golden era of Hindi film music edifice.
Shankar Jaikishan offered her a lot many songs than other Music Directors Correct me if am wrong. Her very first song under SJ (dil ek mandir – mentioned above in the main article) composition stands out one of her best for SJ.
YET ANOTHER FINE SINGER WHO SHOULD HAVE BEEN GIVEN MORE OPPORTUNITY PASSED AWAY LEAVING US.
RDB.
Meri saheliya byahi gayi saaree
Aur main reh gai akeli…
TEESRA KAUN? , 1965.
VASANT DESAI.
Tohri ungli se Krishna kaisi re jhar rahi rakt ki ye dhara..
LADKI SAHYADRI KI, 1966.
A rare raga based song ( Mand ). Unusual lyrics of course, by Bharat Vyas.
R Vasudevan ji,
Yes. From DIL EK MANDIR, 1963 to GILM HI FILM, 1983 , SK sang in 29 movies with S _ J.
Many music lovers are not aware of the very short SK version of
Duniya bananewale kya tere man mein samaya …
TEESRI KASAM, 1966.
Mr Muli,
Please see again. I think it is done.
RAMLAL.
Saal solwa laaga
Ladakpan bhaaga…
MAYA MACHHENDRA, 1960.
I tried posting a comment containing sources I referred to for the figures on the number of songs, but it didn’t get posted.
Dr. Shetty ji @7 and @11,
Mahesh Joshi ji @9 and @12,
Mahesh ji @10,
Dr. Deshpande ji @23
I referred the following sources for the information.
Suman Kalyanpur (around 3000 songs)
https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/mumbai/suman-kalyanpur-final-journey-mumbai-songs-tributes-memories-10718647
This Indian Express article mentions the following:
“Kalyanpur, who sang more than 3,000 songs across 13 languages during a career spanning several decades, …”
https://www.instagram.com/p/DZxMBBQmiD6/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
This instagram post by page (“surili_suman”) mentions her interview conducted by Gurudev Sharan that was published in The Sunday Standard on November 14, 1971.
In response to the question “How many discs have you cut so far?”, she said, “So far, I have recorded more than 2300 songs.”
Therefore, it is reasonable to estimate that she recorded around 3,000 songs by the time of her retirement.
Manna Dey (around 3500 songs)
https://indiannerve.com/this-day-in-history-may-1-7510
Kishore Kumar (more than 2500 songs)
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Kishore-Kumar
Mukesh (1000-1500 songs)
http://onlymukesh.org/biography.aspx
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mukesh_(singer)
Talat Mahmood (around 800 songs)
https://in.bookmyshow.com/person/talat-mahmood/IEIN007303
Swar,
I think you are referring to this. With too many links it, it went to Spam folder. It is like the famous claim of Lata Mangeshkar that she had sung 25000 songs. It was believed, until Hindi Film Geet Kosh came along. No we could count that hers was not more than 6000 songs
Thanks AK ji.
Dr. Deshpande ji @23 – Doesn’t ‘Suman Sugandh’ mention anything about SK’s total number of songs, even an approximate figure?
Dr.Deshpande,
This is an expansive write up on her repertoire. You have indeed dredged deep.
I dedicated a post to her (link https://bit.ly/4vMotLx) compiling her interviews, which actually are not many given her reclusive nature. There is one music director she mentions – Shyam Sharma and a lullaby composed by him – Palak Hindole Chadhi Re Nindiya. This is indeed worth listening to.
Also one of her Hindi Non-Film songs – Phir Shaam Se Dooba Jaaye dil mera is stunning.
Anita
A fitting tribute to a legendary singer of the golden era, Suman Kalyanpur. The regulars at SOY have also joined in to share their appreciation for the voice that gave us so many memorable songs. I share an interview of Suman Kalyanpur with Ameen Sayani that I have come across on the YouTube.
https://youtu.be/lXYM8D-vM6o?si=qm8Fsmtak0D2ieo0
Subodhji @8
Thanks a lot for your comment and kind words of appreciation.
Glad you liked it, especially the Marathi songs.
Sharabi sharabi ye sawan ka mausam from Noor Jahn is a nice song.
Here is the song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wMRYEo5UNeg&list=RDwMRYEo5UNeg
I also like her other one from the film- Aayi baad e bahaaren leke.
Mahesh Joshiji @9
Thanks a lot for your nice words of appreciation and for sharing your thoughts and tribute towards the legendary singer.
I agree with your comment.
Yes, despite the formidable challenge of sounding similar to Lata, Suman Kalyanpur managed to sing a good number of songs (though not in thousands) , many of them are evergreen and still popular.
Unlike some others, she was remembered and her contributions were recognized with awards, maybe late but during her lifetime.
SATISH BHATIA.
Kya maine preet mein paya.
BOOND JO BAN GAYI MOTI.
If a tribute has to be paid by remembering only one song, my humble offering is:
Chand Kanwal Mere Chand Kanwal Chup Chaap So Ja YuN Na Machal – Saanj Aur Savera (1964) – Lyrics: Hasrat Jaipuri – Music: Shankar Jaikishan
https://youtu.be/fV4gn3N2ap8?si=TvL0J-UhJ0LNscKI
Maheshji @10
Thanks a lot for your appreciation and for adding the link to both the versions of Itne bade jahaan mein from Dark Street. It is indeed a nice song.
Yes, the other two Mangeshkar sisters are around. Though Meena sang few songs, Usha Mangeshkar’s body of work is large enough with significant contribution to both Hindi and Marathi film music.
She too did not receive due recognition, Deserves a post or two, at least.
Uma Nakkaji @23
Thanks for your comment and adding your tribute to Suman Kalyanpur.
Indeed, no tribute can be said be complete or sufficient.
Rajeshji @18,
I am sorry for the delayed reply after my initial comment. Since we don’t listen to her songs often, my recall was a bit limited. I only recognized a few instantly, while others felt familiar but didn’t come to mind right away, and many were completely new to me. However, there is a special joy in discovering brand-new songs alongside faint, familiar melodies that slowly return to you as you listen. This made the experience even more enjoyable, and I especially loved the Marathi songs. Thank you so much for this beautiful collection! Among the Hindi film songs, my favourites were ‘Jhoom ke piya ki gali aaj main’ (#8) and ‘Dil gham se jal raha hai jale’ (#9).
According to my rough estimate, her Hindi film discography (excluding NFS) should consist of 820 to 840 songs. Additionally, her Marathi film songs should be around 70, with Non-Film Songs (NFS) totaling around 100. Other regional film songs are roughly 110-130, making a grand total of over 1,100. I will revisit the figures and try to provide a fair breakdown.
A song sung by Suman Kalyanpur Pakeezah (1972)
While recorded for the movie, it was not included in the original 1972 LP and was later officially released in the 1977 soundtrack album titled Pakeezah Rang Barang. Meena Kumari recites a beautiful introductory couplet.
Gir Gayi Re More Mathe Ki Bindiya
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wa7E4wcjIiU
Rahulji @15, @25
Thanks a lot for your comment and nice words of appreciation.
And for adding Barkha bairan. I have mentioned it under Usha Khanna.
Always glad to have your inputs.
Her Marathi songs mentioned by you are lovely and memorable.
Ketaki chya bani tithe composed by Ashok Patki and written by Ashok Paranjpe is one of my favorites too.
here is the link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvYEN10XTB8&list=RDqvYEN10XTB8
And one of my Suman-Dashrath Pujari favorites, penned by P. Savlaram – Asave ghar te apule chhan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNsVPaWvtqk&list=RDPNsVPaWvtqk
Jhimjhim jharti shravandhara is composed by Dashrath Pujari, not Ashok Patki
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=614GEXMhAOE&list=RD614GEXMhAOE
Dr. Shetty @17
Here is the link to the Suman Kalyanpur version of Chale ja chale ja jahan pyar mile.
I like the female version more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bsmU6cLkoC4&list=RDbsmU6cLkoC4
Dr. Shetty @ 21. 22, 26
Thanks for adding more composers.
Here are the links to the songs:
Anu Malik – Phool raahon mein bikhar – Aapas Ki Baat 1981
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lGJfa2IBczY&list=RDlGJfa2IBczY
Robin Banerjee – Ghadi do ghadi ki khushi – Phir Aaya Toofan 1973
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJEx-_qLO9w&list=RDaJEx-_qLO9w
C Arjun – Tum agar aa sako toh aa jao – Ek Saal Pahle 1965
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oLMUoj9H8rg&list=RDoLMUoj9H8rg
G S Kohli – Jaadugar tera jaadu nirala – Jung Aur Aman 1968
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dkie8Dr1i6w&list=RDDkie8Dr1i6w
Vasudevanji @27
Thanks a lot for your comment and appreciation of the post.
Yes, from among the top rung composers, SJ utilized her voice for a good number of songs, both duets and solos. And many of them were hits.
Dr. Shetty @28
Here are the songs links:
RD Burman – Meri saheliyan byahi gayi saari – Teesra Kaun 1965.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MLtDy-np70g&list=RDMLtDy-np70g
Vasant Desai – Tohri ungli se krishna kaisi re – Ladki Sahyadri Ki 1966
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0tQXxnjYaI&list=RDQ0tQXxnjYaI
@29
Thanks for mentioning the short female version of Duniya bananewale by Suman. It is hardly known or remembered. I wish it was a full-fledged song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=48t3bNSQ4DU&list=RD48t3bNSQ4DU
@31
Ramlal – Saal solwa laaga ladakpan bhaaga – Maya Machhindra 1960
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3lN49la4Bkc&list=RD3lN49la4Bkc
SHAMJI GHANSHYAMJI.
Chod ke main saree duniya ko…
THOKAR, 1974.
Hummable ‘ Adam teasing ‘ song ( coined the word myself looking at Eve teasing!!! ) .
From the movie which has, arguably, the best known SG song…
Apni ankhon mein basa kar koi ikraar karoon…
It is probably the only song of SK for SG.
B N BALI.
Mohan ki muraliya haaye…
TIKDAMBAAZ, 1959.
DWARKESH.
( Never heard the name!!! Music and lyrics both . )
Ye nazar, ye hansi
Ye adayen, ye samaa…
AJNABI, 1966.
HUSNLAL BHAGAT RAM.
Chup chup ke chale aao kabhi
Chand ho na ho….
APSARA, 1961
Swar @ 33, 35
I had read Suman Sugandh a few years ago and I don not have the copy now.
So, cannot recollect if it mentioned the total number of her songs.
But I believe, the number of her songs covering all languages and including non-film ones, should be around 1000-1200 or so. The Hindi film songs would be 750+
Other readers have also expressed similar opinions.
Anitaji @36
Thanks a lot for your comment and appreciations.
I also read your tribute, its an interesting and different, covering her recent interviews that give an insight into her persona and views.
The Dak Bangla song is indeed worth listening especially against the background story that she has mentioned in the interview.
Adding the song here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGl1QiCLzoI&list=RDGGl1QiCLzoI
Josephji @37
Thanks a lot for your comment and appreciation of the tribute.
I too had come across her interview taken by Ameen Sayani and had listened to it while preparing for this post. Its a nice one.
Ashok Vaishnavji @41
Thanks a lot for your comment and adding your tribute with her solo from Sanj Aur Savera.
Its indeed a nice melodious number composed by SJ.
Venkataramanji @44
Thanks a lot for returning with your detailed comment and nice words of appreciation. I am glad that you enjoyed discovering new songs and recollecting familiar ones and also liked the Marathi songs.
The Pakeezah song, posted by you, has been beautifully rendered by Suman. Unfortunately, it was not in the film. Thankfully, the songs that were not used in the movie and released on the original disc, were officially released later.
Your rough estimate of her number of songs seems fairly accurate. I did a quick check on HFGK and BollySwar and her Hindi film songs cross 820. She sang over 500 songs between 1961-70
My list of her Marathi NFS has 89 songs, the final number should be close to 100, as mentioned by you.
Dr. Shetty @40
Thank you for adding Satish Bhatia to the list.
Nice song, though Ankhiyan tarsan laagi, is more known than Kya maine preet mein paya
Suman had 3 solos and 1 duet in the film Boond Jo Ban Gayi Moti
Here are the links:
Kya maine preet mein paya
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NoGQCyyTs78&list=RDNoGQCyyTs78
Ankhiyan tarsan laagi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-GsT83Jhfjs&list=RD-GsT83Jhfjs
Dr. Shetty @ 50, 51
Chhod ke main saari duniya is an enjoyable song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_TFeWFdxuo&list=RD0_TFeWFdxuo
@52
Nice songs. But hardly heard as the films are hardly known
Posting the links:
B N Bali – Mohan ki muraliya haaye – Tikdambaaz 1960
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=020h4nEya-s&list=RD020h4nEya-s
Dwarkesh.- Ye nazar ye hansi ye adayen – Ajnabi 1966
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPLiyfg_Rac&list=RDHPLiyfg_Rac
@53
A melodious well-sung number
Husnlal Bhagatram – Chhup chhup ke chale aao – Apsara 1961
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7SObjqkxr10&list=RD7SObjqkxr10
Rajeshji @ 58,
Thank you for responding to all the comments with such perfect timing. Tomorrow is the day for the next post.
We can discuss the topic further when we engage on your upcoming post about Suman Kalyanpur.
Looking for a Hindi film song. pre 1995, may be 60s, 70s or 80s. the picturization : heroine is flying a plane (one or two seater) and the hero is serenading her over the radio (wireless communication between the planes), himself flying another small aircraft. both are presumably members of a flying club. Saw it in rangoli in my childhood
Anantha Krishnan,
Good quiz. Someone might be just able to answer
Anantha Krishnan
Perhaps it is this
Pyar ke is khel me- Jugnu – SDB
https://youtu.be/wXNwnyLgvY8?si=_7Q2nAelRcGimpal
Anantha,
I am happy that you got your answer so quickly.