Mahmood was different from his contemporaries: Bappi Lahiri

Mumbai: In the era of legendary singers like Mohammad Rafi, Kishore Kumar, Manna De and Mukesh, Talat Mahmood is one singer who found a place for himself with hi sunique style of singing.

Remembering the singer, who died on May 9, 1998 at the age of 74, composer Bappi Lahiri told PTI Bhasha, "Talat Mahmood was a great singer. He had Mukesh, Kishore Kumar and Mohammad Rafi as his competitors but still he managed to gain recognition. He was different from the others." Born in Lucknow on February 24, 1924, Mahmood was fond of music since his childhood. His father Manzoor Mahmood never wanted him to step into the world of films but it eventually happened. Composer Anil Biswas gave him his first break with a chance to sing in the film `Arzoo`. Mahmood went on to sing in a number of films in his long career including `Taxi Driver`, `Madhosh` and gained a huge fan following over the years. He was highly appreciated by the audience for his unique voice. Like every star in Bollywood, Mahmood also had his ups and downs. There was a time when composers neglected him because a few of his songs didn`t do well. However, Mahmood`s fans did not forget him and he regained his fame. He is considered one of those who gave a different stature to ghazals in Indian cinema. He also received the Padma Bhushan in 1992. "Talat was a great friend of my father, I always wanted to work with him but unfortunately couldn`t. I have met him on several occasions," Lahiri said. Mahmood also tried his hands in acting and found success. Appearing in movies like `Raftar` and `Diwali Ki Raat`, he co-starred with famous actresses like Madhu Bala, Nootan and Mala Sinha. PTI