Sudesh Bhosle

I met Amitji in 1989, when I sang for Ajooba, directed by Shashi Kapoor and composed by Laxmikant-Pyarelal.

He happened to ask Shashiji who I was. So Shashiji called me to Film City.

That was where I was introduced to Amitji.

WE met quite often since in studios since.

And then I sang Kalyanji-Anandji's Jumma chumma, in the film, Hum.

Amitji told me that the song would be a hit, before I even sang it.

I did not realise it then.

That my voice matches a superstar's, that I have had the prestige and honour to sing for a lot of his songs is a great feeling.

WHAT's more, he appreciates it. In fact, Jayaji did not believe that I sang for Jumma Chumma -- she thought Amitji had sung it!

Amitji appreciates my songs. That is why I can sing for him. He always wants me to be there during his shows.

I was with the Melody Makers Orchestra. I would sing in different voices. I'm very good at mimickry.

Singing for Amitji it changed my life. I wouldn't be here, if not for him!

I have done many albums for him. In fact, nowadays, even when Amitji, himself is singing, people think that it is me!

Actually, to sing like him, I have to act like him for a while. I would get cassettes full of his dialogues, to understand the way he talks. I studied every little detail, from the way he delivers his dialogues to the way he breathes.

Now, at times, I can't believe it is my voice!

Singing with him on stage was a great feeling.

ONCE, Amitji and Lataji gave a concert on April 23, 1999, in Bombay.

I was the only male singer.

We sang the song from Silsila: Main aur meri tanhai. I mouthed the dialogues and Lataji sang.

That was a great moment.

Amitji is very dedicated, very serious. He is very down to earth. And very hard-working.

HE has become a part of my life. Every day I get called by directors and producers to sing songs for Amitji.

Ninety per cent of my career is his voice.

No one can replace a star like him. He himself will have to be born again!

Sudhesh Bhosle spoke to Ronjita Das