Veteran playback singer SP Balasubramaniam passed away on Friday at a Chennai hospital. 

Balasubramaniam, popularly known as SPB, was admitted to MGM Healthcare on August 5 for Covid-19, and had been on life support due to his extremely critical condition in the last few days.

Earlier this month, the singer's film-maker-son SP Charan had said that his father had tested negative for Covid-19 but continues to be on ventilator.

He had been hospitalised with “mild” symptoms of Covid-19 almost two months ago. He had shared the news in a video post on Facebook.

The 74-year-old sang over 40,000 songs in a career spanning nearly 55 years. The news led to an outpour of tributes and condolences on social media.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said "our cultural world is a lot poorer" with the unfortunate demise of Shri SP Balasubrahmanyam.

"A household name across India, his melodious voice and music enthralled audiences for decades. In this hour of grief, my thoughts are with his family and admirers. Om Shanti," PM Modi tweeted.

President Ram Nath Kovind also took to Twitter to offer condolences, writing, "In the passing of music legend SP Balasubrahmanyam Indian music has lost one of its most melodious voices. Called ‘Paadum Nila' or ‘Singing Moon’ by his countless fans, he was honoured with Padma Bhushan and many National Awards. Condolences to his family, friends and admirers."

Home Minister Amit Shah in his tribute said, "He will forever remain in our memories through his melodious voice & unparalleled music compositions."

Minister or Railways Piyush Goyal said, "His melodious voice will live on through his songs."

Haasan's daughter Shruti in a tweet thanked him "for your artistry and your kind words."

"May the halls of heaven be filled with your resplendent voice. You were family and the loss is heartbreaking," she added.

AR Rahman, Mahesh Babu, cricketer R Ashhwin also paid tribute to the legend.

Source: The Economic Times

BDST: 1630 HRS, SEP 25, 2020
AP