Mumbai: Mukesh, whose mellifluous voice could leave many moist-eyed with its heart-wrenching pathos, soul-stirring melancholy and deep anguish, was remembered by scores of die-hard fans, the film industry and family members on the legendary singer's 80th birth anniversary on July 22.

The seventh-floor residence of the late singer at Napeansea Road echoed with some soulful 'bhajans', as his son and playback singer Nitin rendered some of his father's favourite prayer songs at a family function.

Mukesh Chand Mathur, born on July 22, 1923, in a middle class family in Delhi was first noticed by actor Motilal, when he attended a wedding of a common relative.

"My father, who was nudged by friends and family to sing a song of his idol K L Saigal, left Motilal so impressed by his voice, that he decided to take him to Bombay to groom him for the film industry," recounts his son, Nitin.

Mukesh's good looks landed him with a role of a hero in the film 'Nirdosh' (1941). However, the film flopped miserably, forcing him to go back to his first love, music.

His first break "Dil Jalta Hai to Jalne De" in film 'Pehli Nazar' (1945) picturised on Motilal went on to become a rage, with many seeing in him reflections of K L Saigal.

"I don't think my father imitated Saigal. His singing only reflected Saigal's style, but then that is natural of any artiste who idolises his mentor," defends Nitin.

However, Mukesh came out with his individualistic style in 'Mela' (1948) and 'Andaaz' (1949). His numbers "Tu Kahe Agar", "Jhoom Jhoom Ke Naacho Aaj" and "Hum Aaj Kahi Dil Kho Bhaite" hit the celluloid screen in a big way making him a singing star in his own right.

PTI