Hours before his death on May 31, the 53-year-old famous singer gave a concert at Nazrul Mancha, a venue at Sir Gurudas Mahavidyalaya College in the eastern Indian city of Kolkata.
Tributes to the late singer began pouring into social media as soon as news of his death spread, including from the country’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Indian actor Akshay Kumar said in a tweet, “So sad and shocked to learn of KK’s sad passing. What a loss! Om Shanti.”
Director Vivek Agnihotri said he was “extremely sad” to hear of Kunath’s death, noting that he sang the first song in his first film, and has been a “great friend” ever since.
Agnihotri said, “Why so early, KK, why? But you left behind a treasure from your playlist. A very tough night. Om Shanti. Artists like KK never die.”
Kunnath’s first breakthrough role in Bollywood was with the song “Tadap Tadap Ke” from the movie “Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam”.
His other popular tunes include “Sach Keh Raha Hai” from the movie “Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein” and the song “Mangalyam” from the movie “Saathiya”.
Born in August 1968 in New Delhi, Kunath graduated from Delhi University’s Kirori Mall College, before launching his career by singing jingles for advertisements, according to CNN affiliate News18.