How India's Frank Sinatra, Talat Mahmood, Became The Voice Of Dilip Kumar in the 50s Urdunama

If it wasn't for Talat Mahmood's soulful voice, Dilip Kumar wouldn't have become the undisputed 'King of Tragedy'. From 'Arzoo', 'Tarana' to 'Sangdil', and 'Babul', Talat Mahmood used to be the first choice of the directors for the voice of Dilip Kumar.

If it wasn't for Talat Mahmood, Mehdi Hasan would not have become the ghazal great of the subcontinent.

Also, referred to as the 'Frank Sinatra' of India, Talat Mahmood with his velvety voice became the first heartthrob of ghazal lovers, and ruled the Hindi film music industry in the 40s and the 50s.

In this episode of Urdunama, we remember the first 'King of Ghazal' of the Hindi film music, and also a dashing actor who romanced actresses like Nutan, Suraiyya and Nadira. The Quint's Fabeha Syed caught up with journalist and Talat Mahmood's grandniece, Sahar Zaman, who tells what was he like - as a grandfather, a singer, an actor and a shy boy from Lucknow.

Tune in.

Vocals: Vikram Venkateswaran
Guest: Sahar Zaman, Journalist
Host, Writer and Sound Designer: Fabeha Syed
Editor: Shelly Walia
Music: Big Bang Fuzz