Actor-singer Ruma Guha, Kishor Kumar’s first wife, passes away at 84; Bengal CM expresses grief

Veteran actress Ruma Guha Thakurta, first wife of popular singer late Kishore Kumar died in Kolkata on Monday morning at her Ballygunge residence. The 84-year-old actress was best known for her roles in Satyajit Ray-directed films such as Ganashatru (1989) and Abhijan (1962).

"She passed away in her sleep early this morning. Our family doctor confirmed it. The timing of her death could be between 6 and 6.15 am," said Ayan Guha Thakurta, her son from her second marriage.

After he demise, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her grief through her official Twitter handle: "Saddened at the passing away of Ruma Guha Thakurta. Her contribution to the field of cinema and music will always be remembered. My condolences to her family and her admirers," she tweeted.

The last rite of the veteran singer will be held in Kolkata today evening. Ruma Guha Thakurta was born in Kolkata in 1934. The actress was the first wife of Kishore Kumar. Their marriage lasted from 1950 to 1958. The duo had a son Amit Kumar (now 66), who is a singer and composer for Bollywood movies.

After her divorce with Kishore Kumar, Guha tied the knot to Arup Guha Thakurta. The duo has daughter Sromona Guha Thakurta, who is also a singer. Ruma Guha Thakurta founded the Calcutta Youth Choir in 1958.

The veteran actress began her career in 1944 with Amiya Chakravarty's Jwar Bhata. She was starred in films such as Personal Assistant, Nirjan Saikate, Antony Firingee, Dadar Kirti, 36 Chowringhee Lane, Agun and Asha O Bhalobasha.

She had an impressive career as a playback singer, singing for movies ranging from 1958's Lukochuri and 1961's Tin Konya to 1970's Bakso Badal and 1976's Mera Dharam Meri Maa.

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