Dev Kohli, one of the most celebrated lyricists of Hindi cinema, passed away on Friday, August 26, 2023, at the age of 81. He was suffering from age-related ailments and breathed his last at his residence in Mumbai. He was admitted at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital for about three months for age related issues. He was discharged just 10 days ago. He breathed his last today at 4 am. His last rites would be conducted today at the Oshiwara Crematorium in Mumbai.
Early Life Of Dev Kohli
Kohli was born on November 2, 1942, in Rawalpindi, British India (now Pakistan). After the partition of India in 1947, his family moved to Dehradun, where he completed his education at Shri Guru Nanak Dev Guru Maharaj College. He developed a passion for poetry and literature at a young age and moved to Mumbai in 1964 to pursue a career in films.
He made his debut as a lyricist with the song Khushi Se Jaan Le Lo Ji in the film Gunda (1969), composed by music director GS Kohli. However, he did not get much recognition until he wrote the song Geet Gaata Hoon Main for the film Laal Patthar (1971), which became a huge hit.
A versatile and popular lyricist
Kohli wrote songs for several films in the 1970s and 1980s, but remained unnoticed by the mainstream audience. He rose to fame with the blockbuster film Maine Pyaar Kiya (1989), for which he penned songs like Aate Jaate Hanste Gaate, Aaja Shaam Hone Aayee, Maine Pyar Kiya and Kahe Toh Se Sajna. The songs were composed by Raamlaxman and sung by S.P. Balasubrahmanyam and Lata Mangeshkar. The film was a huge success and won several awards, including the Filmfare Award for Best Music Director.
Kohli continued to write memorable songs for films like Baazigar (1993), Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! (1994), Ishq (1997), Musafir (2004), and Judwaa 2 (2017). He collaborated with music directors like Anu Malik, Nadeem-Shravan, Jatin-Lalit, Himesh Reshammiya, and Sajid-Wajid. He also worked with singers like Kumar Sanu, Udit Narayan, Alka Yagnik, Kavita Krishnamurthy, Sonu Nigam, Sunidhi Chauhan, and Neha Kakkar. Some of his popular songs are Yeh Kaali Kaali Aankhen, Hum Aapke Hain Koun, O Saki Saki, Chalti Hai Kya Nau Se Baara and Maaye Ni Maaye.
A respected and admired figure
Kohli was known for his versatility and creativity as a lyricist. He wrote songs in various genres and moods, ranging from romantic to sad, from playful to patriotic, from classical to modern. He had a knack for using simple words and catchy phrases that appealed to the masses. He also had a deep understanding of the characters and situations in the films and wrote songs that suited them perfectly. He was praised by critics and fans alike for his contribution to Hindi cinema.
He was also respected and admired by his colleagues and peers in the film industry. He shared a good rapport with many actors, directors, composers, and singers. He was often seen at various events and functions related to films and music. He was also honored with several awards and nominations for his work, including the Filmfare Awards, the IIFA Awards, and the Zee Cine Awards.
A legacy that lives on
Kohli’s demise has left a void in the Hindi film industry and among his fans. Many celebrities and personalities have expressed their grief and condolences on social media platforms. They have also paid tribute to his work and legacy by sharing some of his songs and memories.
Kohli’s songs will always remain in the hearts of millions of people who grew up listening to them. His songs will continue to inspire and entertain generations of music lovers. His songs will always be a part of the rich heritage of Hindi cinema. His songs will always be remembered as the voice of Dev Kohli.
