Indian singer Krishnakumar Kunnath, the ‘KK’, dies at 53

Indian singer Krishnakumar Kunnath, known by his stage name KK, died Tuesday night in Kolkata, according to the city’s CMRI hospital.

Just hours before his death on May 31, the acclaimed 53-year-old singer performed at a concert in Nazrul Mancha, a venue at Sir Gurudas Mahavidyalaya High School in the Indian city of Kolkata.

Kunnath’s work as a playback singer – a vocalist whose songs are pre-recorded for use in films – made him famous in the country, lending his voice to hundreds of Bollywood films. He became a popular household name after the 1999 release of his first solo album “Pal”.

Tributes to the singer began to spread across social media as news of his death broke, including one from the country’s prime minister, Narendra Modi.

“Saddened by the untimely passing of the famous singer Krishnakumar Kunnath, popularly known as KK. His songs reflect a wide range of emotions, reaching people of all age groups. We will always remember him through his songs. Condolences to his family and fans. Om Shanti,” Modi said.

Indian actor Akshay Kumar said in a Twitter post: “Extremely saddened and shocked to hear of KK’s sad passing. What a loss! Om Shanti”.

Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri said he was “very sad” to learn of Kunnath’s death, noting that he sang the first song in his first film and has been a “great friend” ever since.

“Why so soon, KK, why? But you left behind a treasure trove of a playlist. Very difficult night. Oh Shanti. Artists like KK never die,” said Agnihotri.

Kunnath’s first breakout role in Bollywood was with the song “Tadap Tadap Ke” from the movie “Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam”.

His other popular songs include “Sach Keh Raha Hai” from the movie “Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein” and the song “Mangalyam” from the movie “Saathiya”.

Born in August 1968 in New Delhi, Kunnath graduated from Delhi University’s Kirori Mal College, before starting his career singing to jingles for ads, according to CNN affiliate News18.