Hemant Kumar

The Melodious Maestro of Indian Music

Early Life and Musical Journey

Hemant Kumar Mukhopadhyay, affectionately known as Hemant Kumar, was born on 16 June 1920 in Benares (Varanasi), Uttar Pradesh, and was raised in Bengal. From an early age, he displayed a deep passion for music and literature. His innate talent, mellow voice, and soulful singing style led him to become one of India’s most revered playback singers, composers, and music directors.

Hemant Kumar began his musical journey as a singer of Bengali non-film songs, drawing inspiration from Rabindranath Tagore’s works. His deep, resonant voice soon found its way into films, and he became a defining figure in both Hindi and Bengali cinema.

Rise to Prominence in the Film Industry

Hemant Kumar’s first Hindi film song appeared in Irada (1944), marking the beginning of a remarkable career that would span several decades. His breakthrough came in the 1950s and 1960s, when his compositions and songs graced some of the most memorable films in Indian cinema.

He was not only a gifted playback singer but also an accomplished music composer and producer, known for blending simplicity with lyrical depth. His melodious tunes, often steeped in emotion and subtlety, captured the essence of the human experience and elevated the films they adorned.

In Hindi cinema, Hemant Kumar composed and sang for classics such as Bees Saal Baad (1962), Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam (1962), and Anupama (1966) — films that showcased his musical brilliance and poetic sensitivity. His compositions were marked by an ethereal quality that touched the hearts of millions.

Master of Rabindra Sangeet and Bengali Music

Hemant Kumar is also remembered as one of the foremost exponents of Rabindra Sangeet, the songs written and composed by Rabindranath Tagore. His renditions carried a unique emotional resonance, reflecting both reverence for Tagore’s poetry and his own interpretative genius.

In Bengal, he created a number of evergreen non-film songs such as “Katha Kayanoi”, “Shudhu Shono”, and “Amar Bhair Akashe Priya”, which remain timeless classics. His contribution to Bengali music established him as a cultural icon, loved for his lyrical depth and artistic purity.

Musical Legacy and Versatility

Over the course of his career, Hemant Kumar recorded approximately 2,000 songs across various Indian languages. His voice, known for its deep timbre and emotional warmth, brought to life a wide spectrum of songs — from romantic ballads and devotional hymns to haunting melodies filled with introspection.

As a composer, he had a remarkable gift for crafting melodies that balanced simplicity with sophistication. His songs were characterised by lyrical beauty, gentle orchestration, and a timeless appeal that continues to enchant listeners to this day.

Whether in Hindi or Bengali cinema, Hemant Kumar’s contribution was not just as a singer or composer but as a musical storyteller who shaped the emotional soundscape of Indian music for generations.

Enduring Influence and Remembrance

Hemant Kumar passed away on 26 September 1989, but his songs remain immortal in the annals of Indian music. His legacy lives on through his vast repertoire of melodies that continue to resonate with lovers of music across generations.

His ability to evoke deep emotion with minimalistic expression made him one of India’s most respected and beloved artists. To this day, his music evokes nostalgia and admiration, reminding the world of a golden era when melody and meaning walked hand in hand.

A Philatelic Tribute

The Department of Posts is proud to release a Commemorative Postage Stamp in honour of Hemant Kumar, celebrating his remarkable contribution to Indian music and cinema.

This special issue pays tribute to a true maestro — a singer, composer, and poet whose mellifluous voice and soulful compositions have become an enduring part of India’s cultural heritage. Through this stamp, India Post salutes Hemant Kumar’s timeless artistry and his unparalleled role in enriching the musical legacy of the nation.