Here are 4 famous musicians from India died at 21:
P. A. Backer (April 5, 2015 Thrissur-November 22, 1993 Thiruvananthapuram) was an Indian film director, film producer and screenwriter.
He is considered to be one of the pioneers of Malayalam cinema and played a major role in shaping the industry in its early years. Backer directed and produced several critically acclaimed films, including the National Film Award-winning film, "Chuvanna Vithukal". He was known for his socially relevant themes and realistic approach to filmmaking. Backer also served as the chairman of the Kerala State Film Development Corporation and was a member of the Central Board of Film Certification. Despite his early death at the age of 61, his contributions to Indian cinema remain a significant part of its history.
Born as Ponkunnam Varkey Abraham, P. A. Backer started his career as a journalist before venturing into the film industry. He began as a screenwriter, working on films such as "Bhakta Kuchela" and "Kaliyalla Kalyanam". In 1963, he made his directorial debut with the film "Kadalpalam", which was well-received by audiences and critics alike.
Backer went on to direct and produce several thought-provoking films, such as "Yavanika", "Kerala Cafe" and "Naseema". His films often tackled controversial topics such as prostitution, caste discrimination and political corruption. He was also known for his ability to bring out the best in his actors, and worked closely with some of the finest talents in Malayalam cinema.
In addition to his contributions to film, Backer was also an accomplished writer and published several novels, short stories and essays. He was awarded the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award for his novel "Panneer Pushpangal" in 1984.
Backer's legacy continues to inspire future generations of filmmakers, and his films are still regarded as some of the finest in Malayalam cinema. In recognition of his contributions to the industry, the Kerala State Film Development Corporation instituted the P. A. Backer Award for Outstanding Socially Relevant Film in his honor.
Throughout his career, P. A. Backer was known for his commitment to social justice and his films often reflected this passion. He was a vocal advocate for the rights of marginalized communities, and his work often highlighted the struggles of these groups. In his film "Chuvanna Vithukal", for example, Backer addressed the issue of bonded labor in Kerala, shining a light on the harsh realities faced by these workers.
In addition to his work in film and literature, Backer was also involved in politics. He was an active member of the Communist Party of India and was known for his leftist views. He even ran for political office in 1965, but was not successful.
Despite his many accomplishments, Backer faced his fair share of challenges. He struggled with financial difficulties throughout his career and often had to rely on his own resources to fund his films. Additionally, his outspoken views on controversial topics sometimes led to censorship and other forms of backlash.
Despite these challenges, P. A. Backer remained committed to his craft and to his vision for a more just society. Today, he is remembered as one of the pioneers of Malayalam cinema and as a trailblazer in the Indian film industry.
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Toru Dutt (March 4, 1856 Kolkata-August 30, 1877 Kolkata) was an Indian writer.
Toru Dutt was born into a prominent Bengali family and received a bilingual education in English and French. She began writing poetry at a young age and her work was greatly influenced by her knowledge of European literature and culture. Dutt's most famous work is the novella "A Sheaf Gleaned in French Fields," which she translated from the French. She was also the author of several volumes of poetry and prose, including "Bianca" and "Ancient Ballads and Legends of Hindustan." Dutt's writing has been widely praised for its lyricism and its exploration of themes such as love, loss, and longing. Unfortunately, Dutt passed away at the young age of 21 due to tuberculosis, but her legacy lives on as one of the earliest and most significant voices in Indian literature written in English.
In addition to her literary accomplishments, Toru Dutt was also a talented linguist and musician. She was fluent in several languages, including French, English, Bengali, and Sanskrit, and was a skilled performer on the piano and the Indian instrument, the veena. It is said that she wrote and composed music as well. Despite her short life, Toru Dutt's work had a profound impact on Indian literature and helped pave the way for future generations of Indian writers. Today, she is considered one of the most important figures in the development of modern Indian English literature.
Dutt's family was very supportive of her literary pursuits and encouraged her to pursue her passion for writing. In fact, her mother, father and two siblings were also writers. Her father was one of the first Indian writers to publish a book in English. Dutt's family also believed in equal education for both men and women, which was unusual for the time. Dutt's father even sent her and her sister to study in England where they were the first Indian women to attend the University of Cambridge. Dutt's exposure to European literature and culture had a profound impact on her writing and helped shape her unique voice. Despite facing social and cultural barriers as a woman and an Indian writer in the 19th century, Toru Dutt remains a trailblazer and a cherished figure in Indian literature today.
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Monisha Unni (January 24, 1971 Panniyankara-December 5, 1992 Cherthala) also known as Monisha was an Indian actor.
Monisha Unni was a prominent actor in the Malayalam film industry. She made her acting debut in the 1986 film Nakhakshathangal directed by Hariharan, for which she won the National Film Award for Best Child Artist. She went on to appear in several successful films including Ambalavilakku, Ponnurukkum Pakshi, and Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha. Monisha was known for her natural acting style and was considered one of the most promising actors of her time. Tragically, she died in a car accident at the young age of 21. Her death was a shock to the industry and fans alike, and she continues to be remembered fondly for her contributions to Malayalam cinema.
Monisha was born to father Unni and mother Rajani in Panniyankara, Kerala. Her family later moved to Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu where she completed her education. Monisha was passionate about dance from a young age and learned classical dance under the tutelage of renowned dance guru Chitra Visweswaran. She also trained in western dance forms and was known for her graceful movements on screen.
After her debut in Nakhakshathangal, Monisha went on to win the Kerala State Film Award for Best Child Artist for her role in the film Kariyilakkattu Pole. She won critical acclaim for her performances in films like Dasharatham, Vandanam, and Aryan. In 1990, Monisha received the Kerala State Film Award for Best Actress for her role in the film Thalayanamanthram directed by Santhosh Sivan.
Apart from acting, Monisha was also a trained classical singer and had sung a few film songs including "Kalyana Kacheri" from the film Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha. She was a popular face in advertisements and was considered one of the most beautiful and talented actors of her time.
Monisha's death was a huge loss to the film industry and her fans. Her legacy lives on through her memorable performances on screen and the impact she had on the industry in her short career.
Despite her short career, Monisha Unni made a tremendous impact in the Malayalam film industry. Her performances were always lauded for their naturalism and authenticity, and she was equally comfortable in both serious and comic roles. Monisha was also known for her dedication and hard work, often spending long hours on the set to perfect her performances. Her untimely death was a huge blow to the industry and left a void that has yet to be filled. In her memory, the Monisha International Charitable Trust was established to offer support and assistance to artists in need. Monisha's contribution to cinema continues to be remembered and celebrated by fans and colleagues alike, and she remains an inspiration to aspiring actors in the region.
She died as a result of traffic collision.
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Indrani Aikath Gyaltsen (April 5, 2015 Bihar-April 5, 1994) also known as Indrani Aikath-Gyaltsen was an Indian journalist.
Indrani Aikath Gyaltsen was a well-known journalist who contributed significantly to Indian journalism during her time. She was born on April 5, 1951, in Bihar, India. She completed her education and graduated from Patna University before starting her career as a journalist.
Indrani Aikath Gyaltsen was known for her fearless reporting and unbiased opinions. She had a keen interest in social issues and had reported on several sensitive topics during her career. Her excellent writing skills and in-depth knowledge of societal issues made her a popular journalist among the masses.
Sadly, Indrani Aikath Gyaltsen ended her life on April 5, 1994, causing shock and disbelief among her colleagues and followers. It is said that the reason behind her unfortunate demise was her battle with depression, which she had been going through for a long time.
Nevertheless, her legacy as a remarkable journalist and a strong woman who fought for the truth still lives on. Her contribution to the world of journalism in India and her dedication to her profession will always be remembered.
Her reporting covered topics such as corruption and politics, and she was not afraid to hold those in power accountable for their actions. Some of her notable works include an investigative report on the Harshad Mehta securities scam, which led to the arrest of several high-profile individuals, as well as her coverage of the anti-Sikh riots in Delhi.
In addition to her journalistic work, Indrani Aikath Gyaltsen was also a social activist, and her writings often shed light on issues faced by marginalized communities. She was also a strong advocate for gender equality and women's rights.
Indrani Aikath Gyaltsen's contributions to journalism were recognized posthumously, and she was awarded the Chameli Devi Jain Award for Outstanding Women Mediapersons in 1995. Her life and work remain an inspiration to many aspiring journalists and social activists in India.
Despite her untimely death, Indrani Aikath Gyaltsen's legacy and impact on Indian journalism continue to be felt. Her work as a journalist and social activist is remembered as a symbol of strength, fearlessness, and determination in the face of adversity. She was one of the few female journalists of her time who dared to report on sensitive issues and challenge the status quo in Indian society. Her commitment to social justice and her tireless efforts to shine a light on marginalized communities have inspired many women to follow in her footsteps.
In addition to her achievements as a journalist, Indrani Aikath Gyaltsen was also deeply committed to her family and friends. She was a beloved daughter, sister, and aunt who was always there for her loved ones, even during her own struggles with mental health. She had a kind heart and a generous spirit, and her memory continues to be cherished by those who knew her best.
In conclusion, Indrani Aikath Gyaltsen left an indelible mark on Indian journalism that will never be forgotten. Her fearless reporting, commitment to social justice, and tireless efforts to make a positive impact on the world around her are an inspiration to us all. Though she may no longer be with us, her legacy lives on, and her spirit continues to guide and inspire new generations of journalists and social activists.
She died caused by suicide.
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