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Indian musicians died at 78

Here are 23 famous musicians from India died at 78:

Mahatma Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi (October 2, 1869 Porbandar-January 30, 1948 New Delhi) also known as Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, Gandhi, Gandhiji, Bapu, The Father of the (Indian) Nation, Mohandas K. Gandhi, Mohandas Ghandi, M. Gandhi, Mahatma or Gandhi Mahatma was an Indian lawyer, politician, philosopher and writer. His children are Manilal Gandhi, Ramdas Gandhi, Devdas Gandhi and Harilal Gandhi.

Gandhi is well known for his philosophy of nonviolent resistance, which he referred to as "Satyagraha". He played a significant role in India's struggle for independence from British rule and is considered as the father of the Indian nation. Gandhi spent many years fighting for Indian rights and was the leader of the Indian National Congress. He was instrumental in organizing various campaigns such as the Non-cooperation movement, the Salt Satyagraha, and the Quit India Movement.

Gandhi was also an advocate of gender and social equality and fought against discrimination on the basis of caste and religion. He was a prolific writer and is known for his works such as "Hind Swaraj" and "The Story of My Experiments with Truth". Gandhi's principles of nonviolence, equality, and peaceful coexistence continue to be a source of inspiration for people around the world.

Despite his widespread popularity as a leader, Gandhi was known for his humility and modesty. He lived a simple life and embraced a frugal lifestyle, even when he was the leader of the Indian National Congress. He was also a strong advocate of education and believed in the importance of learning to promote social and political change. Gandhi was married to Kasturba Gandhi, who was also a political activist, and they had four children together. In addition to his political and social activism, Gandhi was also a devout Hindu and used his belief system as inspiration for his philosophy of nonviolence. Although he was assassinated over 70 years ago, Gandhi's legacy continues to inspire and influence people all over the world, from civil rights leaders in the United States to activists fighting for social change in places like India and South Africa.

He died as a result of assassination by firearm.

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Sri Aurobindo

Sri Aurobindo (August 15, 1872 Kolkata-December 5, 1950 Puducherry) otherwise known as Aurobindo Ghose, Aurobindo Ghosh, Aurobindo or Aurobindo Sri was an Indian philosopher, poet and writer.

He was a major leader in the Indian Independence Movement and was imprisoned for his involvement in the revolutionary movement against British rule. While in prison, he underwent a spiritual transformation and became a guru and spiritual leader, founding the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and the Auroville community in Puducherry. He wrote extensively on spirituality, yoga, and philosophy, and his teachings influenced many prominent figures in the New Age and Integral Yoga movements. Aurobindo's works include "The Life Divine," "Savitri: A Legend and a Symbol," and "The Synthesis of Yoga." He remains a highly respected and influential figure in modern Indian spirituality and culture.

Aurobindo was born in Calcutta, India, to a prominent family with a background in Indian civil service. He was educated at Cambridge University in England, where he studied literature, philosophy, and Hinduism. After returning to India, he became involved in the Indian nationalist movement, advocating for complete independence from British rule. He was a brilliant orator, writer, and political thinker, renowned for his poetry and essays.

In 1910, Aurobindo retired from politics and moved to Pondicherry, which was then a French colony. There, he withdrew from the public eye and devoted himself to spiritual practice and writing. During this time, he developed his philosophy of Integral Yoga, which emphasizes a synthesis of spiritual disciplines in pursuit of self-realization and union with the Divine. He believed that it was possible to transform human consciousness and create a new form of spirituality that was both universal and grounded in the Indian tradition.

Aurobindo's teachings have had a lasting impact on Indian spirituality, influencing many spiritual leaders and movements in India and around the world. His vision of a spiritual evolution of humanity has been a major influence on the New Age movement, and his work has been translated into numerous languages. The Sri Aurobindo Ashram, which he founded in Pondicherry, remains a center for spiritual practice, learning, and community service, and Auroville, the experimental international community he helped establish, attracts visitors and volunteers from all over the world who are interested in creating a new kind of society based on spiritual values.

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Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis

Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis (June 29, 1893 Kolkata-June 28, 1972 Kolkata) also known as P. C. Mahalanobis was an Indian scientist, statistician and professor.

He was one of the pioneers in the field of statistics in India and founded the Indian Statistical Institute in 1931. Mahalanobis made significant contributions to the fields of sampling theory, design of experiments, geophysics, and other disciplines. He was also instrumental in developing a statistical method called the Mahalanobis distance, which is widely used in cluster analysis and classification. Mahalanobis was a fellow of the Royal Society and was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian award in India. He was also the first Indian national to become the president of the International Statistical Institute. Mahalanobis's work played a critical role in India's planning and development after independence, and his legacy continues to be felt in both academic and policy circles.

Mahalanobis was born into a wealthy family, and his upbringing provided him with an excellent education. He went on to study physics and mathematics at Presidency College in Kolkata and later earned a degree in mathematics from the University of Cambridge. After returning to India, he began working on statistical methods and their application to problems related to agriculture, health, and education. He was particularly interested in improving the lives of the poor in India, and his work focused on providing policymakers and government officials with the data they needed to make informed decisions.

Mahalanobis's contributions to statistical science were recognized by his peers around the world, and he received many awards and honors throughout his life. He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1945, and he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award, in 1968. In addition, he received numerous honorary degrees from universities in India and abroad.

Despite his many achievements, Mahalanobis was known for his modesty and his commitment to using his talents to serve others. He was a firm believer in the power of statistics to improve people's lives, and he worked tirelessly to make his vision a reality. Today, his legacy lives on as a shining example of how science and technology can be used to make the world a better place.

Bina Rai

Bina Rai (June 4, 1931 India-December 6, 2009 Mumbai) also known as Krishna Sarin, Beena Roy or Bina Rai Nath was an Indian actor. She had two children, Prem Krishen and Monty Nath.

Bina Rai was known for her roles in classic Bollywood films of the 1950s and 60s. She began her acting career in 1949 with the film "Aurat" and went on to star in several successful films such as "Anarkali", "Taj Mahal", and "Ghunghat". Rai was also one of the first actresses to play dual roles in Indian cinema in the film "Shrimatiji".

In addition to her acting career, Rai was also actively involved in social causes and was a patron of the Indian Cancer Society. She was recognized for her contributions to Indian cinema with the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005.

Rai's son, Prem Krishen, also followed in her footsteps and became an actor and producer in the Indian television industry.

Later in her career, Bina Rai also acted in a few Punjabi films. She was known for her natural acting talent and was renowned for her beauty and grace on screen. Rai was considered one of the leading actresses of her time and played a key role in shaping the image of Indian cinema during the golden era of Bollywood. She was also admired for her excellent command of the Hindi language and was considered a role model for aspiring actors in the industry. In her later years, Rai largely stayed out of the public eye, preferring to lead a quiet life with her family. Her passing was mourned by the Indian film industry and her fans around the world.

She died in myocardial infarction.

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Om Prakash

Om Prakash (December 19, 1919 Jammu-February 21, 1998 Mumbai) also known as Om Prakash Bakshi, Om Parkash, Omprakash, Om Prakash Chibber or Fateh Din was an Indian actor.

Om Prakash was a prominent character actor in the Indian film industry. He appeared in over 300 Bollywood films throughout his career, starting with his debut film Daasi in 1944. He was known for his excellent comic timing and his knack for portraying unique characters. Some of his most famous films include Chupke Chupke, Sholay, and Namak Haraam.

In addition to his acting career, Om Prakash was also a trained singer, having learned classical music in his youth. He sang in a few of his films as well. He was the recipient of several awards, including the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1998.

Om Prakash was born to a Kashmiri Pandit family in Jammu. He moved to Lahore with his family during the partition of India in 1947. Later on, he shifted to Mumbai and established himself as one of the most versatile actors of his time. He passed away in 1998, leaving behind a legacy that has continued to influence generations of actors in the Indian film industry.

Om Prakash started his career as a stage actor in Lahore, where he joined the United Amateur Artists in 1939. He was a part of their theatrical productions for several years before moving to Mumbai. Despite being a successful actor, Om Prakash never forgot his roots and was known to be a humble and down-to-earth person.

Apart from his successful acting career, Om Prakash was also involved in philanthropic activities. He was a member of the Indian Cancer Society and actively worked to raise awareness about cancer prevention and treatment. He also donated a significant amount of money to various charities throughout his life.

Om Prakash's contribution to the Indian film industry was immense, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest character actors of Bollywood. His performances were appreciated not only by the audience but also by his peers in the industry. His legacy continues to live on through the countless films he acted in and the actors he influenced.

He died caused by myocardial infarction.

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Veena

Veena (July 4, 1926 Quetta-November 14, 2004 Mumbai) otherwise known as Veena Sapru, Veena Kumari or Tajour Sultana was an Indian actor.

She predominantly worked in Hindi cinema and is remembered for her spectacular performances in films like 'Baiju Bawra', 'Anpadh' and 'Taj Mahal'. Veena began her acting career in the late 1940s and worked in the film industry for around three decades. Apart from Hindi films, she also appeared in a few Punjabi movies. Veena was known for playing strong and impactful roles, often portraying characters that were ahead of their time. In addition to acting, she was also an accomplished singer and dancer. Veena was honored with the prestigious Padma Shri award in the year 1969 for her contribution to Indian cinema.

Veena was born in Quetta, which is now part of present-day Pakistan. She was the only child of her parents and was raised in a family that had a deep interest in music and dance. As a child, she showed an early inclination towards the arts and began to learn classical music and dance forms.

Veena made her acting debut in the film 'Hamari Baat' in 1943 in a small role. However, it wasn't until 1949 that she gained recognition with her powerful performance in 'Baiju Bawra'. Her role in this film earned her critical acclaim and also marked the beginning of her successful career.

During her career, Veena acted in over 70 films, many of which were commercially successful. Some of her best-known movies include 'Aan', 'Mere Mehboob', 'Pakeezah', and 'Raja Jani'. She worked with some of the biggest names in the film industry, including Dilip Kumar, Ashok Kumar, Rajendra Kumar, and Raj Kapoor among many others.

Veena was a trained classical singer and dancer, which helped her to become one of the most sought after actresses of her time. She was known for her versatility and was equally comfortable performing roles that ranged from a tragic heroine to a comic character.

Veena was married to director-producer C.L. Sapru, with whom she had two children- a son and a daughter. She retired from the film industry in the late 1970s and devoted herself to social work. Veena passed away in 2004 after a brief illness, leaving behind a legacy of powerful performances and unforgettable roles.

Vishnu Sakharam Khandekar

Vishnu Sakharam Khandekar (January 11, 1898 Sangli-September 2, 1976) otherwise known as V.S. Khandekar or V. S. Sakharam Khandekar was an Indian writer.

He wrote in Marathi language, which is spoken in the state of Maharashtra, India. Khandekar's work has been widely acclaimed and he is regarded as one of the foremost writers in Marathi literature. He wrote in various genres including novels, short stories, plays, and essays. He often explored themes such as love, relationships, and human emotions in his works. Khandekar won the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1967 for his novel Yayati, which is considered one of his masterpieces. He was also decorated with the Padma Bhushan, one of India's highest civilian awards, in 1968 for his contributions to literature. Despite his success as a writer, Khandekar remained a humble and grounded person throughout his life.

Khandekar was born in the town of Sangli in Maharashtra in 1898. He had a keen interest in literature from a young age and was an avid reader. After completing his education, Khandekar started his career as a teacher but soon realized that his true calling was writing. He began writing short stories and essays for various Marathi publications, which brought him recognition and fame.

In 1929, Khandekar published his first novel, Swami, which was a critical success. He followed it up with several other works, including Ritya Chakravarti, Amrutvel, and Don Dhruv. Khandekar's writing style was characterized by his use of simple language, rich characters and a deep understanding of human emotions.

Apart from his literary contributions, Khandekar was also actively involved in social and cultural activities. He was a founding member of the Marathi Sahitya Sammelan, an organization dedicated to the promotion of Marathi literature and culture.

Khandekar's legacy continues to inspire generations of writers in Maharashtra and beyond. His work has been translated into several languages and continues to be widely read and appreciated.

Kshetresa Chandra Chattopadhyaya

Kshetresa Chandra Chattopadhyaya (April 5, 1896 India-April 5, 1974) was an Indian writer.

He is best known for his contribution to Indian philosophy, literature and linguistics. Chattopadhyaya was born in a small village in Bengal, India and was introduced to Sanskrit and Bengali literature at a very young age. He studied at University of Calcutta, where he later became a professor of philosophy. His work on Indian philosophy and linguistics is highly regarded and has influenced many scholars in the field. Chattopadhyaya also wrote several works of fiction and poetry, including plays, short stories and novels. He received numerous awards in recognition of his contributions to Indian literature and philosophy, including the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1954 for his book "Sanskriti ke Char Adhyaya".

Chattopadhyaya's philosophical works include "The Concept of Purusartha in Indian Philosophy" and "Indian Philosophy: A Popular Introduction". He was known for his critical approach to traditional Indian philosophy and his efforts to contextualize it in modern times. Chattopadhyaya also played a key role in the promotion of Hindi as a national language and was a member of the Hindi Sahitya Sammelan. In addition to his academic pursuits, he was actively involved in social and political issues, including the Indian freedom struggle. Chattopadhyaya passed away on his 78th birthday in 1974, leaving behind a rich legacy of scholarship and activism.

Nathuram Premi

Nathuram Premi (November 26, 1881 Deori-January 30, 1960 Mumbai) was an Indian writer.

He was born in Deori, in the present-day state of Uttar Pradesh, India. Premi was a prolific writer and a famous Hindi poet. He was a leading figure of the Chhayavad movement and was known for his revolutionary ideas, socialist principles, and his poetry that depicted the struggles and aspirations of the common man.

Premi was an advocate of the Hindi language and worked tirelessly to promote it as the national language of India. He was a staunch supporter of Mahatma Gandhi's non-violent struggle for Indian independence and actively participated in several nationalist movements.

Apart from his poetry, Nathuram Premi was also known for his books on Hindi literature, including a critique of Tulsidas' Ramcharitmanas. He had a deep interest in Sanskrit, and his works on Indian philosophy, religion, and culture are widely read and respected.

Premi was also a member of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian parliament, from 1952 to 1958. He passed away on January 30, 1960, in Mumbai, Maharashtra.

Premi's contributions to the development and growth of Hindi literature and language are immeasurable. He was a master of various poetic forms, including ghazals, dohas, and geets, and his works displayed a deep understanding of the human condition. His poems were often inspired by the plight of the marginalized sections of society, and he used his pen as a powerful tool to raise awareness about their struggles.

In addition to his literary and political pursuits, Premi was also a social activist and worked tirelessly for the socio-economic upliftment of the underprivileged. He was associated with the Arya Samaj movement and was a strong advocate of education, particularly for girls.

Premi's legacy has continued to inspire generations of Hindi writers and poets, and his works remain popular to this day. His contributions to the development of Hindi literature and language have earned him several accolades and honors, including the Sahitya Akademi Award, the Padma Bhushan, and the prestigious Bharatiya Jnanpith Award.

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Jahangir Khan

Jahangir Khan (February 1, 1910 India-July 23, 1988 Lahore) was an Indian personality.

Jahangir Khan is most notably known as the founder of the world-renowned Aligarh Institute of Technology in Pakistan, which is one of the most prestigious engineering universities in the country. He was a prominent educationist, philosopher, and philanthropist who dedicated his life to improving the education system in his native India and later in Pakistan after the partition. Jahangir Khan was also a prolific writer and authored several books on his philosophy of life and education. His writings and speeches on education and nation-building continue to inspire and motivate people to this day. Outside of education, Jahangir Khan was a devout Muslim and staunch supporter of the Pakistan Movement, which led to the formation of Pakistan as an independent nation. He is widely regarded as a national hero and a beacon of hope for the people of Pakistan.

Jahangir Khan was born in Aligarh, a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. He was the youngest of seven brothers, all of whom were actively involved in the independence movement of India. Jahangir Khan received his early education at Aligarh Muslim University, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Science. In 1932, he joined the Indian Civil Service and began his career as a revenue officer in Uttar Pradesh.

During his time in the civil service, Jahangir Khan became increasingly disillusioned with the system and began to question the role of the British in India. He decided to leave the civil service in 1940 and became a full-time educationist. He joined the Aligarh Muslim University as a professor of history and worked there until the partition of India in 1947.

Following the partition, Jahangir Khan migrated to Pakistan and settled in Lahore. He was appointed as the Director of Education in the newly formed province of West Punjab, a position he held until 1953 when he resigned to focus on his educational work.

In 1958, Jahangir Khan founded the Aligarh Institute of Technology (AIT) in Karachi. AIT quickly became one of the most prestigious engineering universities in Pakistan, with a focus on providing quality education to students from all backgrounds. Jahangir Khan remained involved with AIT until his death in 1988, and the university continues to be a testament to his vision and dedication.

Throughout his life, Jahangir Khan remained committed to the principles of social justice, equality, and education for all. His legacy continues to inspire and motivate people in Pakistan and beyond to work towards a better future for all.

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Sampurnanand

Sampurnanand (January 1, 1891 Varanasi-January 10, 1969 Varanasi) was an Indian politician.

He was also a renowned scholar, writer, and Sanskritist who served as the second Chief Minister of the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Sampurnanand was born in Varanasi, which is considered one of the holiest cities in India, and he received his education at Banaras Hindu University (BHU).

Sampurnanand was deeply committed to the causes of Indian independence and social justice. He was an active member of the Indian National Congress and played an important role in the freedom struggle against British rule. After independence, he became a member of the Constituent Assembly and served as the Minister of Education in the cabinets of India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.

As a scholar, Sampurnanand had a deep knowledge of Sanskrit and made significant contributions to the field. He wrote several books on Hindu mythology, culture, and philosophy, and he established the Sampurnanand Sanskrit University in Varanasi to promote the study of Sanskrit literature and culture.

Sampurnanand was widely respected for his contributions to Indian politics and culture, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of Indians. Today, the Sampurnanand Sanskrit University is one of the leading institutions for the study of Sanskrit in India, and it stands as a testament to his vision and commitment to culture and education.

In addition to his political and scholarly achievements, Sampurnanand was also a prolific author and poet. He wrote several books on Indian culture and mythology, including "Mahakavya Shri Raghavendramani", a retelling of the Ramayana epic in a lyrical form. His poems were known for their poetic beauty and philosophical depth, and he was highly regarded in literary circles. Sampurnanand was also a strong advocate for education, and he worked tirelessly to promote literacy and education among the masses. He established several schools and colleges in his home state of Uttar Pradesh, and he believed that education was the key to unlocking India's potential. Sampurnanand's contributions to Indian society were recognized during his lifetime, and he was awarded several prestigious honors, including the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award. Despite his many accomplishments, Sampurnanand remained humble and dedicated to his work until his death in 1969. His legacy continues to inspire generations of Indians, and he is remembered as one of the greatest leaders and scholars in Indian history.

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Alan Ross

Alan Ross (May 6, 1922 Kolkata-February 14, 2001) was an Indian personality.

He was a photographer and writer, best known for his work as the official photographer for the British royal family in the 1950s and 60s. He documented the lives of Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip, Prince Charles, and other members of the royal family, producing iconic images that captured the public's imagination. Ross was also an accomplished writer, publishing several books on photography and travel, including his autobiography, "Blindfold and Alone". He was awarded the OBE in 1995 for his contributions to photography, and his work has been exhibited around the world. In addition to his photography and writing, Ross was also a passionate advocate for conservation, working to protect the environment and wildlife in India and beyond.

Born in Kolkata, India, Alan Ross began his career as a photographer in the British Army during World War II. He worked as a darkroom assistant and soon became a war photographer, capturing images in India, Burma, and Malaya. After the war, Ross worked as a freelance photographer and his work was published in magazines such as Life and Picture Post.

In 1952, Ross was appointed the official photographer for the British royal family, a position he held for nearly two decades. He documented the royal family's travels, events, and occasions, capturing intimate moments and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the royal life. His photographs of Queen Elizabeth II's coronation in 1953 and Prince Charles's first day at school in 1962 became iconic images of British history.

Ross was also an author and his books on photography and travel are considered classics. He wrote for magazines such as National Geographic and the Times of India and his travel writings and photographs took readers on journeys to far-flung places around the world.

In addition to his work as a photographer and writer, Ross was committed to conservation and the protection of wildlife. He founded the Hem Chand Mahindra Wildlife Foundation in 1978, which works towards the conservation of wildlife and their habitats.

Alan Ross's contribution to photography was recognized with several awards, including the Royal Photographic Society's Progress medal and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Federation of Indian Photography.

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D. Ramanaidu

D. Ramanaidu (June 6, 1936 Karamchedu-February 18, 2015) also known as Dr. D. Rama Naidu, Dr. D. Ramanaidu, Shri D. Rama Naidu, Daggubati Ramanaidu, D. Rama Naidu, Ramanaidu or Ramanaidu Daggubati was an Indian politician, film producer, actor and film director. He had three children, Daggubati Venkatesh, Daggubati Suresh Babu and Lakshmi Daggubati.

D. Ramanaidu was a prominent figure in the Telugu film industry and produced over 150 films in his career. He was the founder of the film production company, Suresh Productions, which is one of the largest film production companies in India. He was awarded several accolades including the Padma Bhushan in 2012 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2009, which is the highest award in Indian cinema. He also served as a member of parliament in the Rajya Sabha for the state of Andhra Pradesh from 1999 to 2005. D. Ramanaidu was instrumental in promoting Telugu cinema and bringing it to the national and international stage. His contribution to the Indian film industry will always be remembered.

D. Ramanaidu was born in Karamchedu, a small village in Andhra Pradesh. He completed his Bachelor's degree in Agriculture before venturing into the film industry. He started his career as a film producer in 1963 with the film Anuragam and went on to produce several critically acclaimed and commercially successful films including Prem Nagar, Bobbili Raja, and Nuvvu Nenu.

Apart from Telugu cinema, D. Ramanaidu also produced films in other Indian languages such as Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Bengali, Oriya, and Marathi. He was known for his innovative and experimental approach to filmmaking and was instrumental in introducing many talented actors and filmmakers to the Indian film industry.

In addition to his successful career in filmmaking, D. Ramanaidu also actively participated in politics and was associated with several political parties including the Telugu Desam Party and the Bharatiya Janata Party. He served as a member of parliament in the Rajya Sabha for two terms and was known for his contributions to the development of his home state Andhra Pradesh.

D. Ramanaidu's legacy in the Indian film industry continues to inspire generations of filmmakers and his contributions to Telugu cinema and Indian cinema as a whole will always be remembered.

He died in cancer.

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C. Kesavan

C. Kesavan (May 23, 1891 Mayyanad-July 7, 1969) was an Indian politician.

He was a founding member of the Indian National Congress and played a key role in the Indian independence movement. Kesavan was also a journalist and editor, known for his contributions to the magazine Swarajya. He later went on to become a member of the Constituent Assembly of India and was elected to the Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Indian parliament, in 1952. Kesavan served as a minister in the Indian government and was known for his contributions in the areas of education and rural development. He was awarded the Padma Bhushan, one of India's highest civilian honors, in 1965.

Kesavan was born in a small village in present-day Kerala, India. He completed his education in Madras and went on to become a lawyer. However, it was his passion for journalism and politics that defined his career. Kesavan started his political career as a member of the Indian National Congress and was actively involved in the Non-Cooperation Movement and the Civil Disobedience Movement. He was imprisoned several times for his involvement in these movements.

Kesavan's journalistic career began in 1919 when he joined the newspaper Swarajya as an assistant editor. He later became the editor of the magazine, which was an important platform for the nationalist movement. Kesavan's editorials and writings were known for their sharp analysis and critique of colonialism.

After India gained independence in 1947, Kesavan continued to serve the country as a member of the Constituent Assembly, which was responsible for drafting the Indian Constitution. He was also a member of the Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Indian parliament, and served as a minister in the cabinets of both Jawaharlal Nehru and Lal Bahadur Shastri. Kesavan's contributions in the areas of education and rural development were widely recognized and appreciated.

Kesavan's commitment to the cause of Indian independence and his contributions to the country's political and social development earned him several awards and honors, including the Padma Bhushan in 1965. He continued to live a life of public service until his death in 1969.

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Pingali Lakshmikantam

Pingali Lakshmikantam (January 10, 1894 Andhra Pradesh-April 5, 1972) was an Indian writer.

He was born in the village of Kanchikacherla in Andhra Pradesh and received education in both Telugu and Sanskrit. He started his career as a teacher and later became a writer. He was one of the earliest Telugu writers to take up the cause of the downtrodden and fought for social justice through his stories and novels. His popular works include "Pachhimala", "Bhakta Kumbara", and "Andhra Nayakulu". Aside from his written works, Pingali Lakshmikantam was a prominent member of the Indian National Congress and participated in the Indian independence movement. As an avid follower of Gandhi, he actively participated in the Salt Satyagraha and Quit India Movement. In recognition of his contributions to Telugu literature, he was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1958 for his novel "Dwelling Place Amidst Gardens".

Pingali Lakshmikantam was a prolific writer who wrote over 100 books on various subjects like history, literature, and philosophy. He is credited with bringing realism to Telugu literature and inspiring a generation of writers to write about social issues. His writings were a reflection of his own life experiences and his deep understanding of human emotions. He also served as the Chairman of the Andhra Pradesh Sahitya Akademi and was instrumental in promoting Telugu literature. Despite being a well-known public figure, he remained humble and spent his later years in seclusion, devoting his time to writing and contemplation. Today, he is remembered as one of the most influential Telugu writers of the 20th century.

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Baburao Patel

Baburao Patel (March 4, 1904 Maharashtra-September 4, 1982 Mumbai) was an Indian journalist, film director and writer.

He is best known for founding and editing the popular film magazine, Filmindia, which he started in 1935. Patel was an influential figure in the Indian film industry and was known for his candid and critical writing style. He was often controversial, and his commentary on the industry was both praised and criticized by those in the film world. Patel also directed two films, Mazdoor (1934) and Lal-e-Yaman (1933), and wrote several books on Indian cinema, including the well-regarded Memoirs of Dadasaheb Phalke. In addition to his contributions to film, Patel was involved in Indian politics and was a member of the Indian National Congress. He passed away in Mumbai at the age of 78.

Patel was born in a wealthy family in Maharashtra and received his education in Mumbai. He was interested in writing from a young age and began his career as a journalist, working for several newspapers including The Bombay Chronicle and The Times of India. In 1935, he founded Filmindia, which quickly became one of the most influential film magazines in India, providing readers with insightful articles, film reviews, and behind-the-scenes information.

Patel's critical writing style gave him a reputation for being a fearless commentator on the Indian film industry. He was known for his ability to spot new talent and for his support of various actors and directors who later became successful, including Dev Anand, Dilip Kumar, and Raj Kapoor. He also criticized those who he felt were not contributing to the film industry in a meaningful way.

During his time as a film journalist and director, Patel witnessed the gradual transition of Indian cinema from silent movies to talkies. He was one of the first to recognize the potential of Indian cinema and the opportunities it presented for Indian filmmakers. Patel's writings and films played a crucial role in the development of Indian cinema, and he is remembered as a pioneer of the Indian film industry.

In his later years, Patel was honored with several awards for his contribution to Indian cinema. He was a member of the jury at the Cannes Film Festival in 1953 and received the prestigious Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1972. Despite his success, Patel remained private and introverted throughout his life, and little is known about his personal life beyond his professional achievements.

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Bhagvat Singh

Bhagvat Singh (October 24, 1865 Dhoraji-March 5, 1944 Gondal, India) a.k.a. Dr. Maharaja Bhagvatsinghji Sahib of Gondal was an Indian physician.

He was the ruler of the princely state of Gondal from 1900 until India's independence in 1947. He studied at Rajkumar College in Rajkot and then went to London to study medicine. He returned to Gondal in 1895 and worked as a physician for the next 20 years. He was known for his philanthropy and helped to build schools, hospitals, and other institutions in Gondal. Bhagvat Singh was also a keen sportsman and supported the development of sports in Gondal. He was awarded the Kaisar-i-Hind Medal by the British government for his services to the country. After India's independence in 1947, he abdicated the throne and became a member of India's parliament. He died in 1944 and was succeeded by his son. Today, he is remembered as a visionary leader who worked tirelessly for the development of his people and his country.

During the rule of Bhagvat Singh, Gondal grew economically and flourished culturally. He implemented several progressive policies such as the abolition of caste, the establishment of a democratic system, and women's education. He actively promoted the arts and literature and supported many artists and writers of his time. His passion for music led him to set up an Academy of Music in Gondal, which was one of the first institutions of its kind in India. He was a patron of the arts and regularly hosted cultural events at his palace in Gondal.

Bhagvat Singh was also a staunch advocate for Indian independence and was a strong supporter of Mahatma Gandhi's non-violent movement. He used his position as a ruler to mobilize support for the freedom struggle and provided financial assistance to the cause. He was an influential figure in the Indian National Congress and played an active role in shaping India's destiny.

Even today, his legacy lives on in Gondal, where he is revered as a hero and a pioneer. The Maharaja Bhagvatsinghji Museum in Gondal is dedicated to his memory and houses a collection of his personal belongings, photographs, and other historical artifacts. His contributions to the development of Gondal and India as a whole have left an indelible mark on the country's history.

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Abu Abraham

Abu Abraham (June 11, 1924 Mavelikkara-December 1, 2002) was an Indian visual artist and cartoonist.

He is best known for creating the comic strip "What a Life!" which featured the character 'Common Man'. Originally published in 1951, it became a popular and widely syndicated strip in India and other countries. Abu Abraham was also a prominent political cartoonist and commentator, using his art to criticize social and political issues in India. He received several awards for his contributions to art and journalism, including the Padma Shri in 1976 and the Padma Bhushan in 2001, which are among the highest civilian honors in India. Abu Abraham was also a prolific writer and authored several books, including "The World of Abu" and "A Brush with Life". He passed away on December 1, 2002, leaving behind a legacy as one of India's most talented and influential artists.

Abu Abraham was born in Mavelikkara, a small town in the southern state of Kerala, India. He studied at the Madras School of Arts where he developed his skills as a visual artist. After completing his studies, Abu Abraham began working as a cartoonist for various newspapers, including the Indian Express and The Statesman.

Throughout his career, Abu Abraham used his art to raise awareness about important social and political issues in India. His cartoons often highlighted corruption, poverty, and human rights violations, and he was known for his witty and incisive commentary. In addition to his work as a cartoonist, Abu Abraham also worked as a writer, and was the author of several books.

Abu Abraham's most famous creation was the comic strip "What a Life!", which he began in 1951. The strip featured the character 'Common Man', who represented the perspective of the average Indian citizen. The strip became incredibly popular in India, and was widely syndicated in newspapers and magazines around the world.

In recognition of his contributions to art and journalism, Abu Abraham received numerous awards and honors during his lifetime. In addition to the Padma Shri and the Padma Bhushan, he was also awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Indian Institute of Cartoonists in 2001.

Abu Abraham passed away on December 1, 2002, at the age of 78. He is remembered as one of India's greatest cartoonists and artists, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations.

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Dhani Ram Chatrik

Dhani Ram Chatrik (October 4, 1876-December 18, 1954) was an Indian personality.

He was a renowned poet, musician, composer, and folklorist from the state of Punjab, India. Dhani Ram was born in the city of Jalandhar and was passionate about music and poetry from a young age. He received his early education in music and poetry from his father and later learned from various prominent musicians and poets.

Dhani Ram's contribution to Punjabi music and poetry is immense, and he is considered one of the pioneers of modern Punjabi poetry. He composed several popular folk songs, including "Sun Wanjli Di Mithri Taan," which became an instant hit and is still popular with music lovers. His literary works are characterized by their deep human values and reflective nature, often exploring themes of love, nature, and spirituality.

During his lifetime, Dhani Ram received several awards and accolades for his contribution to Punjabi literature and music. He was awarded the title of "Bhaakar-Jhula" by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala and received the prestigious "Sangeet Natak Akademi Award" in 1953. He passed away on 18th December 1954 at the age of 78, but his legacy continues to endure, and his works continue to inspire artists and musicians to this day.

Dhani Ram Chatrik was a progressive thinker and believed in the power of education. He established a school for girls in his hometown of Jalandhar and also contributed to the establishment of several other educational institutions in the region. He strongly believed that education was the key to uplifting society and empowering individuals. Dhani Ram was also involved in social and political movements and actively voiced his opinions on various issues affecting the community.

In addition to his contributions to Punjabi literature and music, Dhani Ram Chatrik was also a skilled player of the Taus, a stringed musical instrument similar to the sarangi. He was known for his soulful renditions of traditional Punjabi folk tunes on the Taus and helped to revive interest in this lesser-known instrument.

Dhani Ram's work has been celebrated and studied by scholars and researchers of Punjabi culture, and he remains an important figure in the history of Punjabi literature and music. Many of his compositions have been recorded by renowned musicians and continue to be popular today. Through his work, Dhani Ram Chatrik left a lasting legacy that has inspired generations of artists and musicians in India and beyond.

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Bansi Lal

Bansi Lal (August 26, 1927 Haryana-March 28, 2006) was an Indian politician.

He was a prominent figure in Haryana politics and served as the Chief Minister of Haryana three times. Lal was also a member of the Indian National Congress party and held various ministerial positions at both state and national levels. He is credited with bringing about significant development in Haryana during his tenure as Chief Minister, particularly in the areas of agriculture and industrialization. Lal also played a key role in the formation of the Janata Party in the 1970s and served as the Defense Minister of India during the Emergency period of 1975-1977. He was known for his straightforward and no-nonsense approach to politics and was widely respected across party lines. Lal passed away in 2006 at the age of 78, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Haryana politics.

In addition to his political career, Bansi Lal was also a freedom fighter and had actively participated in the Indian independence movement. He was also a member of the Indian Army and had served as a captain during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1947-48. Later, Lal became a member of the Haryana Legislative Assembly and was elected as Chief Minister for the first time in 1968. During his tenure as Chief Minister, Lal is credited with introducing various schemes for the welfare of farmers, including the Haryana Agricultural University in Hisar. He also introduced policies to boost the state's industrial sector, including the establishment of several industrial estates. Lal's contributions to the state of Haryana were recognized in 2005, when the Chaudhary Bansi Lal University was established in Bhiwani. Despite facing criticism and opposition from various quarters during his political career, Lal continued to serve the people of Haryana and India with dedication and sincerity.

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Nimma Raja Reddy

Nimma Raja Reddy (March 9, 1937 Warangal-April 5, 2015) was an Indian politician.

Nimma Raja Reddy served as a member of the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly for three consecutive terms and also as the Minister of State for Labor and Employment in the Andhra Pradesh government. He was a member of the Telugu Desam Party and was actively involved in various developmental activities in his constituency. Raja Reddy was known for his dedication towards the welfare of the people and his efforts to uplift the underprivileged sections of the society. He was a popular leader in his constituency and was greatly respected for his honest and sincere approach towards governance.

During his tenure as a politician, Nimma Raja Reddy was instrumental in initiating several welfare schemes for the benefit of farmers, women and youth in the Warangal district. He played a key role in getting several irrigation projects sanctioned for his constituency, which helped boost agriculture and improve the lives of farmers. Raja Reddy also worked tirelessly towards the development of the education sector and was involved in setting up several schools and colleges in his area.

Apart from his political career, Nimma Raja Reddy was also a successful businessman and owned several businesses in the real estate, construction and transport sectors. He was known for his entrepreneurship skills and was respected by his peers in the industry.

In recognition of his services to the society, Nimma Raja Reddy was honored with several awards and accolades during his lifetime. He will always be remembered as a visionary leader who worked tirelessly towards the betterment of his people and his constituency.

He died as a result of myocardial infarction.

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V. K. Krishna Menon

V. K. Krishna Menon (May 3, 1896 Kozhikode-October 6, 1974 Delhi) was an Indian politician.

He played an instrumental role in India's struggle for independence and went on to become India's first high commissioner to the United Kingdom. Menon was also the longest-serving defense minister of India, serving in that role from 1957 to 1962. He is known for his passionate defense of India's sovereignty, especially during the Sino-Indian War of 1962. Menon was widely regarded as a charismatic and controversial figure, and his speeches at the United Nations General Assembly in the 1950s and 1960s are still remembered for their eloquence and impact. Despite criticism and controversy, Menon remained a respected and admired figure in Indian politics till the end of his life.

Menon was born in a prominent family of lawyers in Kerala. He studied at the prestigious Madras Law College and later went to London to study at the Inner Temple. While in London, Menon became involved in India's struggle for independence and joined the Indian National Congress. He played a key role in organizing the India League, a prominent organization that advocated for Indian independence in the UK.

After India gained independence in 1947, Menon was appointed as the high commissioner to the UK. He gained further prominence during the Kashmir conflict of 1948, when he challenged Pakistan's claims on Kashmir at the United Nations. Menon's skillful diplomacy and oratory impressed many, and he soon became a leading figure in the government of Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.

As defense minister, Menon initiated several important military reforms, including the establishment of a domestic defense industry in India. He also played a crucial role in shaping India's foreign policy, particularly in its relations with China. However, Menon's hawkish stance on China and his advocacy of a forward policy in the border regions led to the Sino-Indian War of 1962, which was a significant military defeat for India.

Despite the controversy surrounding the war, Menon continued to be a prominent figure in Indian politics. He served as a member of Parliament and continued to be involved in foreign policy debates. Menon died in Delhi in 1974, leaving behind a complex legacy as one of India's most influential and controversial political figures.

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Chembai

Chembai (September 1, 1896 Palakkad-October 16, 1974 Ottapalam) was an Indian singer.

Genres he performed include Carnatic music.