A homage from the stars: Telugu cinema remembers SP Balasubrahmanyam

SP Balasubrahmanyam, a six-time National Award winner, made his singing debut with the Telugu film, Sri Sri Sri Maryada Ramanna in 1966. The demise of the singer, who passed away on Friday, was mourned across the nation cutting across linguistic and cultural barriers. Leaving behind a long-lasting legacy in almost every South Indian language, his work in Telugu cinema is almost unparalleled. 

On the solemn occasion of his demise, Telugu actors and filmmakers pay tribute to the late singer, SP Balasubrahmanyam.

Chiranjeevi, actor

This is the darkest day for the world of music. With the passing of the unparalleled musical genius of Sri SP Balu garu, an era has come to an end. Personally, I owe my success to Balu garu’s voice, through numerous memorable songs he has sung for me. When the world of music wondered who would succeed the legendary Ghantasala garu, there came one of the brightest stars into the musical galaxy in the form of Shri SPB. His melodious voice transcended linguistic, cultural boundaries and enchanted audiences across India alike for decades. There can never be another SPB. Only he must be born again and fill his vacuum. Devastated at his loss! Rest in peace, Balu Garu.

Mahesh Babu, actor

I am unable to process the fact that SPBalasubramaniam garu is no more. Nothing will ever come close to that soulful voice of his. Rest in peace sir. Your legacy will live on. Heartfelt condolences and strength to the family.
 

Pawan Kalyan, actor

I was told he was recovering from the virus, and I had registered my hope that he would recover swiftly. I was one of countless people in the country who wanted him to get healthy quickly. He's been part of many films of mine and it is an honour that I know him from when I was a child. It breaks my heart to know that he has passed away.

K Viswanath, actor-director

I didn’t know that God can be this cruel. I didn’t expect that he will leave us so soon. At times like these, I am left speechless. May his soul rest in peace. I hope that his family and friends gather the strength to endure times like this.

Nagarjuna, actor

As the memories and conversations with Balu Garu come flooding back, so do the tears... I still remember the call I got from him after my film, Annamayya. He was such an integrable part of my life.

Ramakrishna, dialogue writer of Iddaru and Bharateeyudu

SPB sir is an all-rounder. You cannot categorise him under one tag. I have had the fortune of travelling with him for almost 47 years. He is a personification of 'respect'. He treats everyone equally and makes sure even the youngest person in the environment gets the same amount of respect.

I have spent innumerable days with him in the recording studio. He is so good-natured that he pushes himself and sings the entire album within a day to save the money of producers. He has been with me through my highs and lows. He will always be my annayya.

Suman, actor

I have known SPB sir since 1980 when I first started working as a hero in Tamil. I worked a lot in Tamil and he gave voice to every one of the roles. It did not matter what genre the song belonged to, or what the lyricist wrote… the song got its life from SPB sir. He sang many hits for heroes and sang innumerable devotional songs as well. To think that he is no more is unbearable. I’ll never forget that moment when he agreed to give voice to my character in Annamayya. In that film, I not only play Lord Venkateshwara, but also play a few avatars of Lord Venkateswara, and he mimicked those voices so well to suit each role. Similarly, even in Sri Ramadasu, I played the divine role of Lord Rama, and he changed his voice to match that role and I will never forget that.

He was a good person. He gave voice to all heroes, irrespective of whether they were stars or not. Some songs became hits because of his voice, and some movies were successful only because of the songs. He was a lovable soul with no enemies. I pray that his soul attains peace, and I extend my deepest condolences to his family and friends.

Ravi Teja, actor

SP Balasubrahmanyam Garu is an integral part of every Indian household. His voice and his contribution to music will always remain eternal. To the legend who gave us songs for every human emotion, rest in peace sir. You will forever be missed.

Ram Charan, actor

I am shocked to learn that our ever smiling SPB garu is no more. This loss to our fraternity is unimaginable. My deepest condolences to his entire family.

Nani, actor

My heart is broken into a million songs! The only time I called home and told Anju to get Junnu to shoot was when I was shooting with Balu gaaru... I told her he needs to have a picture with the legend. Balu gaaru will be celebrated as long as music lives!

Nithiin, actor

A sad sad day! It is a great loss to the music industry. SP Balasubrahmanyam Garu was an inspiration to many and my all-time favourite singer… You will be missed sir but your voice wil remain with us forever. Rest in peace sir.

Sai Dharam Tej, actor

A voice which made us laugh, which made us cry… you will live with us forever. My deepest condolences to the family.

Varun Tej, actor

I am really heartbroken. Balu sir, thank you for your contribution to the film industry.. You will live forever through your voice!