Shamshad Begum, the playback singer who has grown to the level of a legend breathed her last leaving a gaping hole in the Hindi film industry. Her everlasting youthful voice shall be missed dearly. Begum crooned the tunes which to this day are evergreen hits like Mere Piya gaye Rangoon, Kabhi aar kabhi paar and Kajra mohabbat wala. The 94 year old died at her residence in Mumbai last night.

The songstress was in poor health suffering from ailments and was even admitted to hospital in her final days. Her daughter Usha said that the funeral would be a simple event with close friends only.

"She was not keeping well for past few months and was admitted to the hospital. She passed away last night. The funeral was a solemn affair with a few friends present," said Begum's daughter Usha.

Born on April 14, 1919, in Amritsar, Punjab the lady debuted her career on Peshawar Radio in Lahore on December 16, 1947 as listeners were enchanted into a trance like state with her soothing voice. She married Ganpat Lal Batto who passed away in 1955. Since then she lived with Usha Ratra, her daughter and Son-in-law in Mumbai.

Some other songs that would remind you of her remarkable voice are Kahin pe nigahen kahin pe nishana', Boojh mera kya naam re, Saiyan dil mein aana re, Leke pehla pehla pyar and Chod babul ka ghar.

(AW- Anil)