Bollywood bids adieu to Mahendra Kapoor

Mumbai, Sep 28 (UNI) The mortal remains of veteran playback singer Mahendra Kapoor, who mesmerised the nation with his patriotic songs, including ''Mere Desh Ki Dharti'' from 'Upkar', were consigned to flames at a crematorium in the western suburbs of the city today.

74-year-old Kapoor, who carved a niche for himself in the world of music along with other renowned singers of his time--Mohammad Rafi, Mukesh and Kishore Kumar--died here yesterday after a heart attack.

The Maharashtra government had recently named Kapoor for the Lata Mangeshkar award for lifetime contribution in the field of playback singing.

Several film personalities were present at the funeral to pay last respects to the great singer.

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