PM Narendra Modi offered his condolences.
Gopaldas Neeraj, a noted Hindi poet and lyricist breathed his last on Thursday. He was 93.
According to media reports, Neeraj's health deteriorated on Monday and he was moved to Agra from Aligarh for better treatment. When his condition took a turn for even worse, he was moved to AIIMS in New Delhi. He passed away on Thursday evening, said his family.
Neeraj was awarded India's highest civilian awards Padma Sri in 1991 and Padma Bhushan in the year 2007. He also won the Filmfare award for best lyrics three times for writing songs 'Kal Ka Pahiya' (Chanda Aur Bijli). His song 'Bas Yahi Apradh MainHarr Baar Karta Hoon, Aadmi Hoon Aadmi Se Pyaar Karta Hoon' (Pehchan), and Ae Bhai! Jara Dekh Ke Chalo (Mera Naam Joker).
Neeraj was born on January 4, 1925 in Itawa district in Uttar Pradesh. He was a professor of Hindi Literature in Dharma Samaj College in Aligarh.
Earlier in an interview, Neeraj had said that he couldn't continue writing lyrics for film songs because whichever composer he wrote for, SD Burman, Shankar-Jaikishan, passed away. The thought of writing those lyrics depressed him. Talking about himself, he once wrote,
इतने बदनाम हुए हम तो इस ज़माने में, लगेंगी आपको सदियाँ हमें भुलाने में।
न पीने का सलीका न पिलाने का शऊर, ऐसे भी लोग चले आये हैं मयखाने में॥
Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his condolences to the admiers of the poet. He wrote, "Saddened by the demise of noted poet and lyricist Shri Gopaldas ‘Neeraj.’
Shri Neeraj's unique style connected him with people from all walks of life, across generations. His works are unforgettable gems, which will live on and inspire many. Condolences to his admirers."
Admireres, fans, fellow poets are mourning the death of a legend.
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