When Bappi Lahiri recalled love story with wife Chitrani, called her his inspiration

Asked how they came to know each other, she said with a laugh, “Actually we are family friends, from childhood… Bas kya hua, I don’t know.” When asked for some juicy details of their courtship, she said, “No details, we got married so soon. I was 18 and he was 23.”

Bappi Lahiri continued, “As she said, we were family friends. I had met her long ago in Kolkata, when we were both very young. But whenever I used to meet her, I was inspired. Then, I had recorded a song for a film called Pratima Aur Payal…” He said that the song wasn’t a big hit, but he sang it with all his heart because it was inspired by Chitrani, which had her name in the lyrics.

Fondly known as Bappi da, and popularly called Disco King, the singer-composer experienced major success in the 1980s and 90s. He was credited with having popularised synth-based dance music in Indian films.

He died due to OSA (obstructive sleep apnea) shortly before midnight on Tuesday. Tributes poured in from all quarters, including from PM Narendra Modi, who tweeted, “Shri Bappi Lahiri Ji’s music was all encompassing, beautifully expressing diverse emotions. People across generations could relate to his works. His lively nature will be missed by everyone. Saddened by his demise. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”