Shamshad Begum

A Pioneering Voice of Indian Playback Music

Early Life and Beginnings

Born on 14 April 1919, in Lahore (now in Pakistan), Shamshad Begum was one of the first playback singers of the Hindi film industry. From a very young age, her powerful and melodious voice drew attention, setting her apart in an era when women rarely chose professional singing as a career. Despite initial resistance from her conservative family, her father recognised her extraordinary talent and supported her aspirations, paving the way for one of the most remarkable musical journeys in Indian cinema.

Rise to Stardom

Shamshad Begum’s professional singing career began when she started performing on All India Radio (AIR) in Peshawar and Lahore in 1937. Her radio performances captivated audiences with her clear diction, expressive tone, and unique timbre — a combination that soon brought her to the attention of leading music directors.

By the 1940s, she had become a well-known and respected artist in the Hindi film industry. Her distinctive voice — powerful yet full of emotion — quickly made her one of the most sought-after playback singers. She ruled the musical landscape through the 1940s and 1950s, lending her voice to some of the most memorable melodies in Indian cinema.

Golden Era of Music

During her illustrious career, Shamshad Begum sang over 6,000 songs in multiple Indian languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Marathi, Gujarati, Tamil, and Punjabi. Her voice brought to life compositions by legendary music directors such as Naushad, O.P. Nayyar, C. Ramchandra, and S.D. Burman.

She was the voice of an era, known for her ability to adapt to a wide range of genres — from romantic ballads and devotional songs to playful duets and classical-based melodies. Her songs like “Mere Piya Gaye Rangoon”, “Kabhi Aar Kabhi Paar”, and “Saiyan Dil Mein Aana Re” continue to be cherished by music lovers for their timeless charm and lively spirit.

Versatility and Distinctive Style

What made Shamshad Begum truly iconic was her distinctive tonal quality — a voice that was bold, crisp, and filled with character. Unlike the soft, mellifluous styles that later came to dominate Bollywood music, her voice carried a vibrant and rustic energy that reflected the cultural vibrancy of India’s early cinematic music.

Her songs resonated deeply with listeners because they were authentic, emotionally rich, and full of life. She became a pioneer in shaping the identity of Indian playback singing, inspiring generations of artists who followed her path.

Enduring Legacy and Influence

Shamshad Begum’s musical journey spanned several decades — from her early days in the 1930s to her peak years between 1940 and 1968. Even after her retirement, her songs continued to be celebrated for their freshness and emotional appeal.

She played a pivotal role in the evolution of playback singing in Indian cinema, laying the foundation for future singers like Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosle, who often cited her as a source of inspiration. Her contribution was not just musical — it represented a breakthrough for women in the entertainment industry, opening doors for generations of female artists.

Even today, her melodies continue to enthrall audiences, serving as a timeless reminder of the golden age of Indian music.

A Philatelic Tribute

The Department of Posts proudly releases a Commemorative Postage Stamp in honour of Shamshad Begum, celebrating her as one of the pioneering voices of Indian playback singing.

This philatelic tribute pays homage to a singer whose versatility, vibrancy, and vision helped shape the early soundscape of Indian cinema. Her songs remain immortal in the hearts of millions, echoing the spirit of an era that defined the foundation of modern Indian music.

Through this special issue, India Post salutes Shamshad Begum — a trailblazer, a cultural icon, and a voice that continues to inspire generations with her timeless melodies and indomitable spirit.