Shamshad Begum

Biography

Shamshad Begum was one of the earliest and most iconic playback singers in Indian cinema. Born on April 14, 1919, in Lahore, then part of British India, she showed a natural affinity for singing from a very young age. Her powerful, crystal-clear voice quickly caught the attention of music directors and listeners alike, even in an era dominated by live performances and radio.

Her professional singing career began in the late 1930s with performances for radio and recording labels. By the early 1940s, she had already become a household name. Her voice, with its distinct timbre and commanding presence, made her a favorite for playback singing in Hindi cinema during the 1940s and 1950s.

Shamshad Begum collaborated with some of the most renowned music composers of the time, including Naushad, C. Ramchandra, O.P. Nayyar, and Ghulam Haider. She delivered many timeless hits such as "Leke Pehla Pehla Pyar", "Kabhi Aar Kabhi Paar", and "Mere Piya Gaye Rangoon", songs that continue to charm generations of music lovers.

Though she gradually stepped back from the limelight in the 1960s, her legacy remained firmly intact. Despite being shy of public appearances, her voice echoed in homes, film halls, and radio across the country for decades.

Shamshad Begum passed away on April 23, 2013, in Mumbai, leaving behind a musical treasure trove. Her pioneering role in shaping the golden age of Bollywood music and her distinctive vocal style have cemented her place as one of the most influential voices in Indian music history.