Indian singer KK dies after performing at Kolkata concert

Popular India singer-composer KK, whose real name was Krishnakumar Kunnath, died in Kolkata on Tuesday at the age of 53. He was in the city for a two-day concert, and took ill during an event at Nazrul Mancha. “He was brought dead to the hospital around 10 pm,” said a CMRI hospital staff. He died of a suspected heart attack, reports The Indian Express.

According to sources, KK felt unwell during the concert. He complained of uneasiness during the interval but performed till the end of the event. Post that, he was taken to a five-star hotel in Esplanade, where his health deteriorated, and he died before he could reach the hospital. The concert had been organised on behalf of Gurudas College. The singer was in the city for a two-day event. KK also posted photos from the concert hours before his death. “Pulsating gig tonight at Nazrul Mancha. Vivekananda College !! Love you all,” he wrote.

KK is survived by his wife and two children. West Bengal Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Arup Biswas, who rushed to the hospital immediately after KK’s death, told IANS that the body has been sent for post-mortem. “His family members have been informed. They are likely to reach Kolkata early on Wednesday morning,” he said.

As soon as the news of his death broke, people from all walks of life paid tribute. Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, “Saddened by the untimely demise of noted singer Krishnakumar Kunnath popularly known as KK. His songs reflected a wide range of emotions as struck a chord with people of all age groups. We will always remember him through his songs. Condolences to his family and fans. Om Shanti.”

Saddened by the untimely demise of noted singer Krishnakumar Kunnath popularly known as KK. His songs reflected a wide range of emotions as struck a chord with people of all age groups. We will always remember him through his songs. Condolences to his family and fans. Om Shanti.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 31, 2022

Home Minister Amit Shah and Rahul Gandhi also condoled his death. “Krishnakumar Kunnath, fondly known as KK, was one of the most versatile singers of the Indian music industry. His soulful voice gave us many memorable songs. Saddened by the news of his untimely demise last night. My heartfelt condolences to his family & fans across the world,” Rahul Gandhi tweeted. Shah wrote, “KK was a very talented and versatile singer. His untimely demise is very saddening and a huge loss to Indian music. With his gifted voice, he has left an indelible impression on the minds of countless music lovers. My deepest condolences to his family and fans. Om Shanti Shanti.”

Actor Akshay Kumar called KK’s death ‘a big loss’. He wrote on Twitter, “Extremely sad and shocked to know of the sad demise of KK. What a loss! Om Shanti.” 

Singer-politician Babul Supriyo tweeted,  “One of the nicest guys the Music Industry ever had… One or bestest Voices we ever had… #KK ‘s sudden so so very untimely demise is too shocking & devastating a reality to deal with… Rest in Peace my friend.”

Actor Swastika Mukherjee also condoled his death, “KK passed away. Can’t believe what I just heard.” Singer Rahul Vaidya said he was ‘beyond shocked’ at the news of KK’s death. He tweeted, “I hear singer KK just passed away. GOD what is really happening!!?? I mean WHAT IS HAPPENING. One of the nicest humans kk sir was. Gone too soon at 53. Beyond shocked. RIP sir.”

Singer Harshdeep Kaur tweeted, “Just can’t believe that our beloved #KK is no more. This really can’t be true. The voice of love has gone. This is heartbreaking.”

Cricketer Virender Sehwag also paid his condolences to KK’s family as he wrote on Twitter, “Tragic to hear about the passing away of KK after falling ill while performing in Kolkata. Another reminder of how fragile life is. Condolences to his family and friends. Om Shanti.”