Umita Kalyan Nepaul passed away on Friday
Image: Facebook
THE South African music industry is in mourning following the untimely passing of Umita Kalyan Nepaul, who died on Friday morning at the age of 50 after suffering a heart attack.
Nepaul left an indelible mark on the hearts of many through her music and cultural contributions that resonated far beyond her homeland.
Described by many on social media as South Africa's nightingale, Nepaul also performed alongside her husband Tansen Nepaul in the Tansen Nepaul Showband.
Nepaul, who is survived by her husband Tansen and two children, Bihaag and Himani, ran an online music school called Drisha Music Academy.
The South African Hindu Maha Sabha in their message of condolences, described Nepaul as an exceptional ambassador of Indian culture, whose dedication to preserving and promoting music touched communities across South Africa and beyond.
"Her artistry, humility, and unwavering commitment to the cultural landscape enriched countless lives and inspired generations of musicians and cultural enthusiasts.
"We fondly remember her invaluable contributions to the Durban Diwali Festival, where her talent and service added immense beauty and depth to this important cultural festival. Her voice, grace, and spirit will be profoundly missed," read the statement.
Musician Solly Pillay said Nepaul was one of the most versatile singers in the country in all Hindu languages.
"She was eloquent and adept in any language and you would swear that when she sang she was of that language origin. I had the honour of singing duets with her in Tamil and I was always amazed that although she sang from English words it was as if she sang out of the Tamil alphabet.
"If Umita were in a different country, in a different place and only accessible via the television box she would be enormously famous internationally. Although she has had her great share of fame and stardom in this county it still wasn't enough that she should deservedly have on the international cultural tapestry.
"She was mesmerising in her singing and had audiences in awe and spellbound at the way she was able to change from one language to another. Umita was a rare gem in the cultural tapestry of this country. Nothing could be a greater travesty than someone of her ilk being snatched from our lives at her prime," said Pillay.
Southside FM South Africa commemorated her profound influence on the music community saying "Umita was a musician par excellence who also inspired and grew musicians across the country and world."
"Such a sad loss to SA's music industry ...Umita Kalyan..a nightingale of SA as I know it ..a musical icon..you'll be sadly missed..condolences to the family and friends," wrote a Facebook user.
Mahesh Gandecha, president of the Gujarati Hindu Sanskruti Kendra, on behalf of the organisation said Nepaul's passing is a loss of a musical giant.
"Heaven has gained an angel. Her voice is now silent but her melody plays in our heart. Umita was part of Kendra family since last 25 years. We fondly remember her great contribution to the Kendra children's singing classes, Kendra, Rangili sham, Diwali show, Navratri and online Navratri video during the Covid period and many more projects.
"Umita was like a sister, a phone call away for Kendra family. Her humanity and dedication touched many hearts. Her soulful voice and gentle nature was her trade mark," wrote Gandecha in his message.
Nepaul's funeral will take place today at the Clare Estate Umgeni Hindu Crematorium from 3pm to 5pm.