Veteran singer Bappi Lahiri passes away at the age of 69

 Music composer and singer Bappi Lahiri, who popularised disco music in India in the 80s and 90s, died at Mumbai's CritiCare Hospital today at the age of 69.

"Lahiri had been admitted to the hospital for a month and was discharged on Monday. But his health deteriorated on Tuesday and his family called for a doctor to visit their home. He was brought to the hospital. He had multiple health issues. He died due to OSA (obstructive sleep apnea) shortly before midnight," Dr Deepak Namjoshi, director of the hospital, told news agency.

Soon after the news of Bappi Da's demise, several people took to Twitter and paid condolences to the family. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh among others also remembered the versatile singer.

Prime Minister Modi shared a throwback picture with the late singer and talked about his lively nature. "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," he wrote.

Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed grief and mentioned that Bappi Da's demise will create a void that can never be filled. "Pained to learn about the passing away of legendary singer and composer, Bappi Lahiri Ji. His demise leaves a big void in the world of Indian music. Bappi Da will be remembered for his versatile singing and lively nature. My condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti," he tweeted.

Bappi Lahiri delivered popular songs in several films of the late 1970s-80s like 'Chalte Chalte', 'Disco Dancer', and 'Sharaabi'. His last Bollywood song titled Bhankas was for the 2020 film 'Baaghi 3'.

The singer's last appearance on the screen was with Salman Khan on reality show Bigg Boss 15, where he was promoting his grandson Swastik's new song 'Baccha Party'.

In April last year, the singer had been admitted to Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital after testing positive for Covid. He recovered after a few days.