Veteran Bollywood lyricist Dev Kohli, known for penning some of the most iconic songs in the Indian film industry, breathed his last on Saturday after a prolonged illness. The 86-year-old lyricist had left an indelible mark on the hearts of music enthusiasts with his unforgettable compositions.
Dev Kohli’s lyrical prowess contributed to numerous superhit songs that have become timeless classics, including tracks like ‘Kabootar Jaa, Jaa, Jaa,’ ‘Ye Kaali Kaali Aankhen,’ ‘Dil Deewana, Bin Sajna Ke Maane Na,’ and ‘Chalti Hai Kay Nau Se Bara.’ His passing is a significant loss to the world of music and art.
Kohli’s body was placed for public viewing at his residence in Lokhandwala Complex, providing an opportunity for his admirers and fans to pay their last respects to the legendary lyricist. His funeral was held at the Oshiwara Crematorium in the evening.
Born on November 2, 1942, in a Sikh family from Rawalpindi, Pakistan, Dev Kohli’s family later settled in Dehradun, India. His creative journey began with his first song for the film “Gunda” (1969) titled ‘Khushi Se Jaan Le Lo Ji,’ composed by music director G. S. Kohli.
Dev Kohli’s lyrical magic continued to captivate audiences across generations as he wrote for several hit films. His notable contributions include songs for movies such as “Maine Pyar Kiya” (1990), “Aansoo Bane Angare” (1993), “Baazigar” (1994), “Hum Aapke Hain Koun” (1995), “Dahek” (1999), “Bas Itnasa Khwaab Hai” (2001), “Woh,” “Musafir” (2004), “Shootout At Lokhandwala” (2007), “Yaariya” (2008), and “Judwaa 2” (2018), among others.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dev Kohli collaborated with a plethora of music directors, including renowned names like Shankar-Jaikishan, Laxmikant-Pyarelal, R. D. Burman, Anu Malik, Raam-Laxman, Anand Raaj Anand, Anand-Milind, Vishal-Shekhar, and Uttam Singh, to name a few. His lyrical contributions spanned over 100 films, making him an integral part of Bollywood’s musical legacy.
The news of Dev Kohli’s demise left the Bollywood fraternity in mourning. Esteemed actors, fellow lyricists, and music directors expressed their condolences through social media, reflecting on his immense contributions to the world of music and his lasting impact on the industry.
