As the music world celebrates the birth centenary of the legendary singer Mukesh Chand Mathur, fondly known as Mukesh, his son Nitin Mukesh fondly remembers his father’s iconic journey in the music industry. Hailing from Delhi, Mukesh was born on July 22, 1923, and went on to become one of the most influential voices in Hindi cinema playback singing, alongside the likes of Mohammad Rafi and Kishore Kumar.
Nitin Mukesh reminisces about his father’s timeless melody, “Kisi ki muskurahaton pe ho nisaar,” a song that beautifully encapsulates Mukesh’s persona and artistry. This iconic track truly embodies the essence of the singer’s soulful and emotive voice, which has left an indelible mark on the hearts of music enthusiasts for generations.
The era of Hindi cinema was blessed with the presence of three remarkable playback singers – Mukesh, Mohammad Rafi, and Kishore Kumar – who ruled the industry for decades. Mukesh, with his unique vocal timbre and emotional rendition, touched the hearts of millions. His voice had a soul-stirring quality that could effortlessly convey a range of emotions, from joy to sorrow, leaving listeners captivated and moved.
Mukesh’s repertoire boasts a plethora of evergreen hits that have stood the test of time and continue to resonate with audiences. “Mera joota hai Japani,” “Jeena yahan marna yahaan,” “Kabhi kabhie mere dil mein,” and “Kai baar yuhi dekha hai” are just a few examples of the musical gems that have etched his name in the annals of music history.
Despite his immense success and adoration from fans, Mukesh remained a humble and down-to-earth individual. Nitin Mukesh fondly recalls that his father’s grounded nature never wavered, even amidst the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry. He stayed true to his roots and held onto his values, earning the respect and admiration of everyone he encountered.
Mukesh’s journey into the world of music began with a passion for singing during his early days in Delhi. His soul-stirring voice and dedication caught the attention of music director Naushad Ali, who gave him his first break in the movie “Pehli Nazar” (1945). From that moment on, there was no looking back, and Mukesh’s melodious voice soon became a staple in Bollywood.
One of the most iconic collaborations in Hindi film music was between Mukesh and the renowned music director duo, Shankar-Jaikishan. Together, they delivered numerous chartbusters that continue to enchant music aficionados even today. The magic they created can still be felt in songs like “Awara Hoon” and “Dost Dost Na Raha.”
Mukesh’s voice found an unparalleled emotional resonance in the compositions of music maestro Madan Mohan. The combination of Mukesh’s soulful singing and Madan Mohan’s haunting melodies produced gems like “Maine Tere Liye” and “Jis Gali Mein Tera Ghar.”
Beyond his professional success, Mukesh was known for his warm and affable personality. He maintained strong bonds with his colleagues and friends in the industry, earning their love and respect. Even as he achieved fame and fortune, he remained rooted in his values, setting an example for aspiring musicians.
Mukesh’s legacy continues to thrive through his family, particularly through his son, Nitin Mukesh, who has carved a niche for himself as a successful playback singer. Nitin proudly carries forward the musical heritage of his illustrious father and keeps the memories alive through his own renditions and performances.
As the world celebrates the birth centenary of this iconic singer, the melodies of Mukesh continue to resonate across generations. His songs have transcended time and continue to touch the hearts of music enthusiasts, making him a true legend of Indian cinema. Mukesh’s soulful voice and down-to-earth demeanor remain etched in the memories of millions, and his contribution to the world of music will forever be cherished and celebrated.
