Google pays tribute to KK with animated doodle on his Bollywood debut anniversary

KK’s versatility allowed him to sing in multiple languages, from Hindi and Telugu to Bengali, Kannada, and Malayalam.

Google on Friday paid tribute to Krishnakumar Kunnath, popularly known as KK, with an animated doodle, honouring his contributions to Indian playback singing and commemorating the anniversary of his debut in the film industry.

On this day in 1996, KK’s voice first captivated audiences with the song “Chhod Aaye Hum” from "Maachis", a moment that marked the beginning of a prolific career.

Born on August 23, 1968, in Delhi, KK pursued his early education at Kirori Mal College, Delhi University, and initially began his career in marketing before finding his way into music. In 1994, he submitted a demo tape to various artists, an initiative that led him to work on commercial jingles, giving him an opportunity to showcase his talent.

KK’s career in Bollywood gained significant momentum in 1999 with “Tadap Tadap” from "Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam". The song, a soulful piece capturing intense emotions, resonated widely with audiences and established KK as a prominent voice in Hindi cinema. That same year, he launched his debut album, "Pal", which produced several popular songs, further cementing his place in the industry.

Throughout his career, KK’s versatility allowed him to sing in multiple languages, from Hindi and Telugu to Bengali, Kannada, and Malayalam. Over the years, he recorded approximately 3,500 jingles and more than 700 songs in Indian cinema, becoming one of the most beloved playback singers of his generation. His work earned him six Filmfare Award nominations and two Star Screen Awards, along with widespread critical acclaim.

KK passed away in May 2022 at the age of 53 after suffering a cardiac arrest while performing at a concert in Kolkata. His sudden passing left fans and colleagues in shock, sparking an outpouring of grief across the music and film industries. Following his passing, a statue was erected in Kolkata, the city where he performed his final concert, as a tribute.

KK’s soulful voice and his contributions to Indian playback singing remain a cherished part of Indian cultural history. Friday's Google Doodle celebrates his legacy, honouring his unique contributions to Indian music and the joy he brought to audiences around the world.