Mumbai: Former Deputy Prime Minister L. K. Advani, released ‘Talat Mahmood – A Velvet Voice’, a biography of the legendary musician and actor, written by journalist and author Manek Premchand at the KC College Auditorium, Churchgate, today.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Advani said that he always enjoyed listening to music despite his political engagements which had kept him busy. He said that he was present at the occasion to enjoy the evening. He praised Talat Mahmood and said, “It is a great honour to unveil this book of such a great and distinguished Icon of Music and I feel humbled to release Talat Mahmood – A Velvet Voice.”

His Excellency the Governor of Maharashtra, Mr. C Vidyasagar Rao and various people from the music and entertainment industry were among those who attended the event.

“I have been a fan of Talatji since my childhood and I’ve also had the honour of knowing him personally,” said Manek Premchand while talking about the book, published by Manipal University Press (MUP). “A significant portion of the Indian diaspora across the globe have a certain, special weakness for Talat’s soft voice, and there was no English biography of the genius voice actor. I hope the book reaches music lovers and Talat fans who are eager to know more about his life and contributions,” he said. Premchand has authored three earlier books and contributed to a third of the three-part biography of santoor maestro Pandit Shivkumar Sharma.

Dr. H. Vinod Bhat, Pro Vice Chancellor, Manipal University said in a statement issued by him, “This book is a proud presentation of Manipal University Press (MUP), which started as an academic publisher and is now venturing into various facets of publishing including audio books. Talat Mahmood was a magical musician as he swiftly blended the richness of Urdu poetry with soulful music, creating an extra-ordinary repertoire of both ghazals and cinema music. Mr. Manek Premchand has made sincere attempts in sketching Talat’s life and musical journey, providing details of all the songs he sang during his long-lasting career.  We appreciate the efforts put by the author and wish the book is read by all lovers of music and Talat.”