Mumbai, February 4: Renowned Indian music director and violin maestro Uttam Singh has been bestowed with the prestigious Swarnim Dhrohar Lata Mangeshkar Award. This esteemed honor, typically presented annually on February 6 to mark the death anniversary of the legendary playback singer Lata Mangeshkar, will this year be conferred in Raipur on February 7.
In an exclusive conversation, Uttam Singh opened up about his four-decade-long association with Lata ji, whom he reveres not just as a singer but as an embodiment of Goddess Saraswati. ‘Working with Lata ji was every artist’s dream,’ he reflected. ‘Her divine presence in music elevated every composition. In those days, no film was complete without her voice – it was the first wish of every singer, composer, director, and actor.’
Recalling his early career, Singh shared that his debut song ‘Kab Tak Shama Jali’ from the 1983 film Painter Babu featured Lata Mangeshkar alongside Mahendra Kapoor. ‘Out of my first ten songs, eight were in her voice. It’s my sheer fortune,’ he said with gratitude.
This award marks his third major recognition, following honors from the Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh governments. Singh attributes it to Saraswati’s blessings.
Delving into Lata ji’s unparalleled voice, he described its innate sweetness and emotion as a divine gift. ‘Even her spoken words carried melody; her singing was pure bliss. Her legacy will echo through generations, immortalized in golden letters as long as music exists.’
Uttam Singh’s journey from violinist to music director intertwined beautifully with Lata Mangeshkar’s era, creating timeless melodies that continue to enchant audiences worldwide.