Manna Dey

A Legend of Melody and Mastery in Indian Music

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Prabodh Chandra Dey, popularly known as Manna Dey, was born on 1 May 1919 in Kolkata, West Bengal. From an early age, his life was steeped in music, influenced by the rich cultural milieu of Bengal and the musical legacy of his uncle, the renowned classical singer K.C. Dey. Under his uncle’s mentorship, Manna Dey developed a solid foundation in Indian classical music, which became the hallmark of his illustrious career.

With rigorous training and natural talent, Manna Dey quickly rose to prominence as a singer of exceptional versatility, blending classical depth with a modern sensibility that appealed to audiences across generations.

Career and Rise to Fame

Manna Dey began his career in playback singing with the Hindi film Tamanna (1943). His distinct voice, technical precision, and adaptability soon earned him recognition in the film industry. Over the following decades, he became one of the most celebrated playback singers in Indian cinema, lending his voice to an extraordinary range of songs — from soulful ghazals and romantic melodies to rousing qawwalis and classical compositions.

Between the 1950s and 1970s, Manna Dey’s golden era unfolded. His ability to blend classical intricacy with popular appeal set him apart from his contemporaries. His duets with legends such as Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, Mohammed Rafi, and Kishore Kumar became iconic, leaving behind a rich legacy of unforgettable music.

Versatility and Musical Innovation

A hallmark of Manna Dey’s artistry was his experimentation with fusion, skillfully merging Indian classical traditions with Western musical influences. His deep understanding of ragas allowed him to perform intricate compositions with effortless grace, while his expressive voice brought emotion and depth to every lyric he sang.

He was equally adept at light classical, devotional, romantic, and philosophical songs — showcasing a rare versatility that made him a favourite among music directors of his time. His rendition of songs like “Ae Mere Pyare Watan”, “Poocho Na Kaise Maine Rain Bitai”, and “Laga Chunari Mein Daag” remain enduring testaments to his mastery over melody and emotion.

Manna Dey’s contribution was not confined to Hindi cinema alone — he sang extensively in Bengali, Malayalam, Gujarati, Kannada, Marathi, and several other Indian languages, truly embodying the spirit of India’s musical diversity.

Achievements and Recognitions

Over the course of his illustrious career, Manna Dey recorded songs for more than 3,500 films, delivering around 758 Hindi songs between 1953 and 1969 — a period often regarded as his most prolific. His voice became synonymous with musical excellence, admired by critics and adored by audiences alike.

For his unparalleled contribution to Indian music, Manna Dey received numerous honours, including the Padma Shri (1971), the Padma Bhushan (2005), and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2007) — India’s highest recognition in cinema. These awards stand as a testament to his enduring influence and the deep respect he commanded across the world of music.

Legacy of a Musical Genius

Manna Dey passed away on 24 October 2013, leaving behind an unparalleled musical heritage that continues to inspire generations. His voice, steeped in tradition yet timeless in appeal, remains a guiding light for aspiring singers and music lovers.

Even today, his songs resonate across borders and generations, evoking a profound sense of nostalgia and reverence. His artistry stands as a bridge between classical finesse and cinematic charm — a legacy that celebrates the richness of Indian music in all its forms.

A Philatelic Tribute

The Department of Posts proudly releases a Commemorative Postage Stamp in honour of Manna Dey, celebrating his monumental contribution to Indian cinema and music.

This philatelic tribute pays homage to a legendary voice that transcended genres, languages, and generations — a singer whose dedication, depth, and devotion to music continue to enrich India’s cultural heritage. Through this special issue, India Post salutes Manna Dey, the timeless maestro whose melodies remain forever etched in the heart of the nation.