Chennai: The demise of playback singer S P Balasubrahmanyam has shocked the entire film fraternity and fans. Condolences have been pouring in ever since the news of his demise was announced.
President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu and Union Home Minister Amit Shah among other political personalities offered condolences on the death of the legendary musician.
In his condolence message President Ram Nath Kovind tweeted: “In the passing of music legend SP Balasubrahmanyam Indian music has lost one of its most melodious voices. Called ‘Paadum Nila’ or ‘Singing Moon’ by his countless fans, he was honoured with Padma Bhushan and many National Awards. Condolences to his family, friends and admirers.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted: “With the unfortunate demise of Shri SP Balasubrahmanyam, our cultural world is a lot poorer. A household name across India, his melodious voice and music enthralled audiences for decades. In this hour of grief, my thoughts are with his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”
The Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu expressed his shock. “Shocked at the tragic demise of the legendary musician Shri S.P. Balasubrahmanyam. He leaves a void in the world of music that is virtually impossible to fill.”
Terming this as “personal tragedy as we both belong to Nellore”, he wrote, “His mellifluous voice, passionate love for languages and literature and genial humour have left an indelible impact on millions of admirers, including me…My heartfelt condolences to his family. Om Shanti!”
Shah said he will forever remain in “our memories through his melodious voice & unparalleled music compositions.”
In his message, Tamilnadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit said that Balasubrahmanyam was a nice gentleman, who spent his life time for the music and playback singing.
“His demise is irreparable loss to the people of India and particularly to all music lovers across the globe. All of us will miss his magical golden voice. However, he will ever remain with us through his melodious voice and eternal music compositions. I convey my deep condolences to the bereaved members of the family and pray to the Almighty God to rest his soul in peace and give strength to his family to overcome this unfathomable loss,” he added.
In a statement, Tamilnadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palniswami said the demise of SPB is a huge loss to the film fraternity and arts. It is also a huge personal loss to me. He can never be replaced. He live to continue to live in the numerous songs he has sang,’ he said.
Kamal Haasan released a video tribute in which he said that SPB’s fame will live on for another seven generations.
“Only a few people will get the recognition for their talent during their lifetime. ‘My brother’ SPB is one such person. I am proud that I was able to lip sync for so many of his songs. He has rendered his voice for so many songs for four generations and his contributions will be spoken about for seven more generations”he added.
Rajinikanth,who had organised prayers for SPB’s recovery and kept a regular check on his health, put out a video message condoling his death.
In the video, Rajinikanth said: “Today is a very sad day. SPB has left us after battling for his life till the last moment. I’m in deep pain and shock over his passing. There cannot be anyone in India who isn’t a fan of SPB’s voice and songs. Those who knew him loved him more than his voice and songs. That’s because of his humanity. He respected everyone, and without seeing them as big or small, he gave them his regard, love. He was such a great and loving man.”
Singer Asha Bhosle, in a statement, said, “This year has seen a lot of unfortunate events. And the news of SP Balasubramaniam’s demise that I have heard just now makes me even sadder. He was an amazingly versatile artiste. His first songs after South, in Hindi with Lakshmikant Pyarelal were amazing. His duet with Lata didi was very memorable. Balu sang a lot of songs for RD Burman and was his friend. He had helped me a lot with my Tamil pronunciation in my song for Ilayaraja. The loss of such a great artiste has left a huge void in the music world. I wish his soul to rest in peace in this musical journey to be one with the almighty. RIP Balu.”
Salman Khan, who has lip-synced to several hit songs of SPB in his early films, said he is heartbroken to hear about his death.
Singer Chinmayi Sripadaa said, “Your art will live for aeons and I’ll always celebrate you.”
‘Oru Sahabdham samaptam.
Thank you for the memories. Thank you for showing that a singer can be a fantastic singer, act, voice act, produce, compose & more. You lived and how! Your art will live for aeons and I’ll always celebrate you,’ She said.
Akshay Kumar recalled his virtual interaction with SPB during the lockdown.
‘Deeply saddened to hear about the demise of Balasubrahmanyam ji.Just a few months back I’d interacted with him during a virtual concert in this lockdown..he seemed hale,hearty & his usual legendary self…life is truly unpredictable. My thoughts & prayers with his family,’ he tweeted.