A few hours before his death on May 31, the acclaimed 53-year-old singer performed in a concert at Nazrul Mancha, a site of Sir Gurudas Mahavidyalaya University in the city of Calcutta, east of Calcutta. India.
Kunnath’s work as a lead singer – a vocalist whose songs are pre-recorded for use in films – made him famous in the country and throughout the diaspora, as he lent his voice to hundreds of Bollywood movies. He became a popular name after the release in 1999 of his first solo album, “Pal”.
Tributes to the late singer began pouring into social media as soon as his death became known, including one of the country’s prime minister, Narendra Modi.
“Saddened by the untimely demise of the famous singer Krishnakumar Kunnath, popularly known as KK. His songs reflected a wide range of emotions as they impacted people of all ages. We will always remember him through his songs. Condolences to his family and his followers. Om Shanti, “Modi said.
Indian actor Akshay Kumar said in a tweet: “Extremely sad and surprised to learn of the sad disappearance of KK. What a loss! Om Shanti.”
Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri said he was “so sad” to learn of Kunnath’s death, noting that he sang the first song of his first film and had been a “great friend” ever since.
“Why so soon, KK, why? But you’ve left behind a treasure trove of a playlist. Very difficult night. Om Shanti. Artists like KK never die,” Agnihotri said.
Kunnath’s first role in Bollywood was with the song “Tadap Tadap Ke” from the movie “Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam”.
His other popular songs include “Sach Keh Raha Hai” from the movie “Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein” and the song “Mangalyam” from the movie “Saathiya”.
Born in August 1968 in New Delhi, Kunnath graduated from Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, before beginning his career singing for ad jingles, according to CNN affiliate News18.