With the death of Indian legendary singer Shamshad Begum the world has lost one of the premier playback singers of the Hindi film industry. One of the first singers in the industry, she was the voice behind hit popular melodious songs like “Leke pehla pehla pyar, (CID 1956), Milte hi aankhen dil hua, (Babul), Kahin pe nigahen kahin pe nishana (CID 1956), Kabhi aar kabhi paar zara lagi tere nazar, (Aar Paar), Mere piya gaye Rangoon, (Patanga), Chod Babul Ka Ghar, (Babul), Kajra Mohabbatwala Ankhiyon mein Aisa dala, (Kismat), Teri Mehfil Mein Qismat, (Mughal-E-Azam), Saiyan Dil mein aana re, (Bahar)” and many others. She captivated the hearts of her listeners with her unique voice that had enchanting depth. The world has lost a major stalwart of the Hindi singing world. Her contribution to subcontinent music is immense and unmatched. She was an Indian singer who elevated the Hindi playback singing tradition to new heights. Hindi songs lovers are forever indebted to her. Her death leaves a vacuum that would be difficult to be filled. Even today, her songs from the 1950s, 1960s and early 1970s are popular and continue to be remixed by music directors. Shamshad Begum leaves behind a legacy, a treasure trove of beautiful soul-touching songs. Millions around the world will remember her silken soft voice. She was awarded Padma Bhushan, India's third highest civilian honor, in 2009 and she had many national and international awards to her name.I hope the young generation will carry on her rich legacy. Mir Gazanfar Ali Zaki, Jeddah
