Was Kishore Kumar Overrated? Debunking the Myth
Kishore Kumar, the legendary Indian playback singer, has been a subject of both praise and criticism over the years. While some insist he was overrated, others believe he was a genius of unparalleled talent. This article seeks to address and debunk the notion that Kishore Kumar was overated by examining his career, versatility, and legacy in the context of Indian playback singing.
The Popularity and Controversy
The argument that Kishore Kumar was overrated stems from the fact that he is primarily remembered for his association with commercial, hit songs. This phenomenon is a result of the cyclical nature of public preference and media influence.
Ultimately, what people listen to and talk about most often tends to be what they consider the best. This trend is amplified by media outlets, which prioritize TRP ratings by focusing on a few popular artists. This is evident in the 90s when Kumar Sanu dominated the airwaves, and now in the present with Arijit Singh. While I personally believe Arijit Singh is far more talented than Kumar Sanu, it is important to recognize that artistic taste is subjective and varies widely.
Composers and Versatility
The question of Kishore Kumar's worth often intersects with the quality of the composers with whom he worked. Praise for composers such as Rajesh Roshan, Nadeem-Shravan, and Bappi Lahiri is abundant in Indian media and reality shows. However, RD Burman, who worked extensively with Kumar, deserves special mention. While all these composers are praised, Kumar's association with RD Burman has often overshadowed his versatility and unmatched talent.
Kishore Kumar's versatility stands out. He possessed a rare quality often referred to as 'harfan maula,' where his voice and performance could complement any song or genre. For instance, consider his rendition of the iconic song 'Zindagi ka safar hai yeh kaisa safar koi samjha nahi koi Jana nahi' from the movie 'Safar.' This song exemplifies his unmatched ability to deliver emotional depth, making it difficult to imagine another singer performing it with the same impact. Similarly, Mehdi Hassan's portrayal of 'Yeh Jo chilman hai dushman hai hamari' from 'Mein Ranga Rang Machli' demonstrates its complexity and emotional range, underscoring the unique talent of every singer.
Comparisons and Legacy
To truly assess Kishore Kumar's talent, it is helpful to compare him with other legendary singers like Mohammad Rafi. While both were astonishing in their own right, each had distinct qualities that made them irreplaceable. Some songs could only be sung by one of them, and both had their own unique style. For instance, Kishore's rendition of 'Zindagi ka safar' has a certain charm that few could match, while Rafi's 'Yeh Jo chilman hai dushman hai hamari' has a distinct emotional depth.
It is imperative to understand that the comparison between these two artists is subjective and often influenced by personal preferences. Ultimately, both artists are considered evergreen due to their timeless melodies and enduring popularity. The notion of one being overrated is a matter of perspective; both Kishore Kumar and Mohammad Rafi are undeniably among the greatest talents in Indian playback singing.
Towards the Future: Reflections on Present-Trials
Reflecting on today's music scene, many criticize the inclusion of flashy elements like expensive cars, alcohol, and stereotypical lovesick girls in music videos. These tropes unfortunately detract from the meaningful and emotional depth that singers like Kishore Kumar contributed to the industry.
While it is natural for music and media trends to evolve, the core essence of great singing transcends these changes. Kishore Kumar's impact on Indian music remains significant, as do his timeless melodies that continue to resonate with audiences across generations.
In conclusion, Kishore Kumar was not overrated. His talent and versatility set him apart as a true maestro in the world of Indian playback singing. While tastes and opinions vary, his contributions to music are undeniable and enduring.