When Bappi Lahiri received letter of appreciation from Queen Elizabeth. On Throwback Thursday
India Today
Bappi Lahiri breathed his last at the age of 69 on February 15. In this week’s Throwback Thursday, let us recall the time when the veteran singer received a letter of appreciation from Queen Elizabeth.
Bappi Lahiri's sudden demise left the entire nation in mourning. On February 15, the legendary singer passed away due to sleep apnea in Mumbai. He was also being treated for multiple health issues. Bappi Da was known to make everyone groove to his compositions. However, do you know the list of admirers also includes the name of the Queen Elizabeth of England? In this week's Throwback Thursday, we are taking you on a trip down memory lane to remember the time when Bappi Lahiri received a letter of appreciation from Buckingham Palace.
In 2013, the Queen of England honoured the veteran singer-composer, Bappi Lahiri, for composing a melodious track titled Long Live Our Queen. It was a gift to Queen Elizabeth on the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty’s coronation. Bappi Da not only composed the soulful track but also sent the CD of the song to England.
The track, Long Live Our Queen, was composed to bless the Queen with long life. It is a fusion of Ganesh Vandana (a prayer for Lord Ganesha) and another hymn. Bappi Lahiri once again proved that he was a versatile genius. He was the first Indian composer to be lauded by the Queen.
Bappi Da personally wanted to perform for the Queen at Buckingham Palace. However, the Queen expressed her inability to take up the suggestion. She appreciated the music director’s thoughtfulness.
Bappi Lahiri was extremely elated after he received the honour. Talking about the same in 2013, he said, “After Paul McCartney and Elton John, I am the other composer to have paid a tribute to the Queen. The letter took me by surprise and was touched by her courteousness.”
Bappi Lahiri, also known as the Disco King of India, breathed his last at 11.45 pm on February 15. Bappi Da was cremated at the Vile Parle crematorium today, February 17. His son Bappa Lahiri performed the last rites at the crematorium. A source close to IndiaToday.in, revealed the veteran singer’s funeral was postponed to February 17 so his son, Bappa, could return from the US.
