Kishore Kumar was not just a singer, he was our friend who had a song for every mood. His was an untrained voice that ruled the industry for decades. He still is the common voice in playlists for every mood all across India. Today is Kishore Kumar’s 86th birth anniversary. While most news channels are busy presenting 10 best songs of Kishore Kumar, we present to you the rebellious side of the maestro.
Vidya Charan Shukla was Indira Gandhi government’s leading “propagandist”. He had knack of censuring media and make artists follow his diktats. Most of them bowed to his decrees, there were some who were too tough to bow down.
VC Shukla sent his emissaries to Kishore Kumar’s residence to ‘persuade’ the singer to sing a propaganda song for Indira Gandhi.
Following excerpt is a dramatic reconstruct of the same episode:
Indira Gandhi’s messenger – Sir you are a great singer
Kishore Kumar – Hey I know that…but thanks anyway
Indira Gandhi’s messenger – Haha you are funny
Kishore Kumar – I know that as well…Yes tell me? What do you want?
Indira Gandhi’s messenger – You know all is not well in the country. Smt. Indira Gandhi had to impose an emergency
Kishore Kumar – Really? Okay. So?
Indira Gandhi’s messenger – You are quite popular
Kishore Kumar – Arrey Baba, I know…Tell me what do you want?
Indira Gandhi’s messenger – you HAVE to sing Indira Ji’s 20-point plan
Kishore Kumar – I HAVE to? Is it an obligation?
Indira Gandhi’s messenger – Yes. I&B Minister V C Shukla has ordered you to sing Indira Ji’s 20-point plan
Kishore Kumar – Ordered? Boka *****…Who is he to order me? Pagul saala…chal bhaag
Information & broadcasting minister VC Shukla was offended enough to announce a ban on Kishore Kumar’s voice on All India Radio. Sheer frustration you see!
Kishore Da was Kishore Da after all.