Vani Jairam

Vani Jairam (born Kalaivani; November 30, 1945 – February 4, 2023) was a celebrated Indian playback singer known for her extensive contributions to Indian cinema, particularly in South Indian languages. Her career spanned over five decades, during which she recorded more than 20,000 songs across 19 languages, including Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi. Vani was renowned for her vocal range and adaptability, making her a sought-after artist among composers from the 1970s to the late 1990s. She gained fame with her breakthrough song "Bole Re Papihara" from the film Guddi (1971) and continued to deliver numerous hits throughout her career, earning her three National Film Awards for Best Female Playback Singer.

In addition to her film work, Vani Jairam was well-versed in various musical forms, including Carnatic and Hindustani music, thumri, ghazal, and bhajan. She received numerous accolades, including the Padma Bhushan in 2023, shortly before her passing. Her legacy is marked by her contributions to Indian music, her ability to cross linguistic barriers, and her influence on generations of singers. Vani Jairam's untimely death on February 4, 2023, was a significant loss to the Indian music fraternity, leaving behind a rich musical heritage that continues to inspire many.