India bids farewell to 10 icons in 2024
In 2024, India lost numerous legends from diverse fields
Their lives were a testament to dedication, innovation, and the power of human potential, touching millions of hearts and influencing countless lives. As we mourn their loss, we also celebrate their remarkable journeys and the lasting impact they have made.
As 2024 draws to a close, here are 10 such legends who passed away this year.
Manmohan Singh September 26, 1932–December 26, 2024
India’s 13th Prime Minister and visionary economist, Manmohan Singh
Former Prime Minister of India, esteemed economist, and justifiably the founding father of ‘New India’, Singh passed away at 92 due to age-related ailments. He was instrumental in liberalising India’s economy and served as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014.
Ratan Tata (December 28, 1937–October 9, 2024)
An industrialist, philanthropist, and former chairman of Tata Group
Industrialist and former chairman of Tata Sons, Tata passed away at 86. A visionary leader, he was instrumental in expanding the Tata Group’s global footprint.
Shyam Benegal (December 14, 1934–December 23, 2024)
A legendary filmmaker and storyteller
Renowned filmmaker known for pioneering parallel cinema in India, Benegal died at 90 from chronic kidney disease. His acclaimed works include Ankur, Nishant and the television series Bharat Ek Khoj.
Zakir Hussain (March 9, 1951–December 15, 2024)
Hussain was a tabla maestro who mesmerised the world with his rhythm
Celebrated tabla virtuoso and composer, belonging to one of the leading families of classical music in India, Hussain passed away at 73 due to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. A four-time Grammy winner, he was pivotal in popularising Indian classical music globally.
Ramoji Rao (November 16, 1936–June 8, 2024)
A media mogul and visionary entrepreneur
Indian entrepreneur, media mogul, and film producer. A Padma Vibhushan awardee died at 87 due to cardiovascular disease. He is the founder of Ramoji Group, which operates in various industries, including media, entertainment, finance, and hospitality. He founded Ramoji Film City, the largest film production complex in the world.
Pankaj Udhas (May 17, 1951–February 26, 2024)
Udaas is known to be the voice of several timeless ghazals
Renowned ghazal singer, Udhas died at 72 due to pancreatic cancer. Known for soulful renditions, he was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2006.
Ustad Rashid Khan (July 1, 1968–January 9, 2024)
Ustad Rashid Khan, said to be a beacon of Hindustani classical music
Distinguished Indian classical vocalist Khan died at 55 after battling cancer. A Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri awardee, he was revered for his mastery in Hindustani classical music.
Rohit Bal (May 8, 1961–November 1, 2024)
Rohit Bal was known for his innovative designs
Acclaimed fashion designer Bal passed away at 63 due to cardiac arrest. Known for his innovative designs, he was a prominent figure in Indian haute couture.
Yamini Krishnamurthy (December 20, 1940-August 3, 2024)
Yamini Krishnamurthy dedicated her life to the art of classical dance
Mungara Yamini Krishnamurthy was an Indian classical dancer recognised for her contributions to Bharatnatyam and Kuchipudi. She was a recipient of Padma Vibhushan and Sangeet Natak Akademi award.
Suhani Bhatnagar (June 14, 2004–February 16, 2024)
Suhani Bhatnagar’s performance in Dangal touched inspired many young hearts
A young actress who portrayed Babita Phogat in Dangal, a highgly successful film on women wrestlers, Bhatnagar died at the age of 19 from dermatomyositis, a rare inflammatory disease. Her performance was widely appreciated.
These are but 10 luminaries that bid adieu to this world as the year 2024 saw many other notable personalities, from a range of fields, pass away.
