Mahendra Kapoor Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Songs & Achievements
Introduction
Mahendra Kapoor was a legendary Indian playback singer, remembered for his patriotic fervor, devotional songs, and soulful Bollywood tracks. Best known for his powerful renditions like Mere Desh Ki Dharti (Upkar), Neele Gagan Ke Tale, and Chalo Ek Baar Phir Se Ajnabi Ban Jayein, he became one of the most respected voices of Indian cinema. With a career spanning over four decades, Kapoor’s voice echoed not only in Bollywood but also in Bhojpuri, Punjabi, Gujarati, and Marathi films.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Mahendra Kapoor
- Date of Birth: 9 January 1934
- Birthplace: Amritsar, Punjab, India
- Date of Death: 27 September 2008 (aged 74)
- Nationality: Indian
- Occupation: Playback Singer
- Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
- Spouse: Prabha Kapoor
- Children: Rohan Kapoor (singer-actor)
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 72 kg
- Hair Color: Black (later grey)
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Mahendra Kapoor was born in Amritsar and later moved to Mumbai with his family. From a young age, he was passionate about music and trained in classical singing under maestros like Pt. Husnlal, Pt. Nirmal, and Ustad Niazi Khan.
In 1957, he won the Metro-Murphy singing competition, which opened the doors for his playback singing career in Bollywood.
Musical Journey & Career Highlights
Bollywood Debut & Breakthrough
Kapoor made his playback debut in Navrang (1958) with the song Aadha Hai Chandramaa. His big break, however, came with Manoj Kumar’s film Upkar (1967), where his patriotic song Mere Desh Ki Dharti became an anthem of Indian cinema.
Popular Songs
Some of his most celebrated tracks include:
- Mere Desh Ki Dharti (Upkar, 1967)
- Neele Gagan Ke Tale (Humraaz, 1967)
- Chalo Ek Baar Phir Se Ajnabi Ban Jayein (Gumrah, 1963)
- Hai Preet Jahan Ki Reet Sada (Purab Aur Paschim, 1970)
- Aur Nahin Bas Aur Nahin (Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, 1974)
- Tum Agar Saath Dene Ka Vada Karo (Hamraaz, 1967)
He became the signature voice of actor Manoj Kumar and often sang patriotic and philosophical songs in his films.
Multilingual Singing
Mahendra Kapoor also sang extensively in Punjabi, Bhojpuri, Marathi, and Gujarati films, becoming one of the most versatile singers of his era.
Awards & Achievements
- Padma Shri (1972) – India’s fourth-highest civilian award.
- National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer (1968) – Mere Desh Ki Dharti.
- Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer (1968) – Neele Gagan Ke Tale.
- Honored with numerous state and cultural awards for his contribution to Indian music.
Personal Life
Mahendra Kapoor married Prabha Kapoor, and the couple had a son, Rohan Kapoor, who also tried his hand at playback singing and acting. Despite fame, Kapoor was known for his humility and dedication to family and music.
Death
Mahendra Kapoor passed away on 27 September 2008 in Mumbai due to cardiac arrest. His death marked the end of an era, but his voice continues to inspire patriotic zeal and musical devotion across generations.
Legacy & Influence
Mahendra Kapoor is remembered as the voice of patriotism in Indian cinema. His rendition of Mere Desh Ki Dharti remains one of the most iconic patriotic songs ever recorded. With a career rich in romantic, devotional, and philosophical songs, he carved an everlasting place in Indian music history, leaving behind a golden legacy.
FAQs
1. What was Mahendra Kapoor’s debut film song?
Aadha Hai Chandramaa from Navrang (1958).
2. Which is Mahendra Kapoor’s most famous patriotic song?
Mere Desh Ki Dharti from Upkar (1967).
3. Did Mahendra Kapoor receive any National Award?
Yes, for Mere Desh Ki Dharti (1968).
4. Who was Mahendra Kapoor often the playback voice for?
He was known as the voice of Manoj Kumar.
5. Did Mahendra Kapoor sing in regional languages?
Yes, he sang in Punjabi, Marathi, Gujarati, and Bhojpuri films.
