Bollywood composer Shravan Rathod dies aged 66 after testing positive for Covid

Bollywood composter Shravan Rathod has died at the age of 66 after testing positive for Covid-19.

His son, musician Sanjeev Rathod, confirmed the sad news, stating that his father died on Thursday after being admitted to hospital in a ‘critical’ condition after he contracted the illness.

He told the Press Trust of India: ‘We had never thought our family would have to go through such tough times.

‘He passed away around 10.15pm tonight. Please pray for his soul.’

Sanjeev has confirmed that he, his mother, and brother Darshan have also tested positive for coronavirus.

Rathod and his wife had recently returned from the Indian city of Haridwar, where huge crowds had gathered to take part in the Kumbh Mela Hindu festival.

Other Indian stars have since shared their condolences, including composer AR Rahman, who tweeted: ‘Our music community and your fans will miss you immensely.’

Actor Ajay Devgn wrote: ‘Shravan (and Nadeem) walked 30 years alongside me in my career with the evergreen album for Phool Aur Kaante.

‘Very sad, very unfortunate to hear of his demise last night.’

Producer Bonkey Kapoor, who previously collaborated with Rathod, also added: ‘Deeply pained to hear of the demise of music director Shravan.

‘Have wonderful memories of working with him for the music of Judaai & Sirf Tum. My heartfelt condolences to the family. RIP.’

Rathod helped to compose many Bollywood hits of the 1990s, alongside his musical partner Nadeem Saifi.

Known as Nadeem-Shravan, the duo were responsible for songs from some of India’s biggest romantic musicals, including Phoor Aur Kaant and Saajan, which were both released in 1991.

Rathod and Nadeem split in the mid 2000s, before reuniting to compose for Bollywood film Do Knot Disturb in 2009.

Nadeem has since paid tribute on his Facebook page, as he shared a picture of his longtime collaborator and friend.

‘Indeed a very sad day for music. I have lost my younger brother today,’ he said.

Rathod’s death comes amid a sharp rise in the number of Covid-19 cases in India.

On Friday, the country recorded 332,730 cases – the highest one-day tally anywhere in the world for the second consecutive day.

Got A Story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

MORE : Oscars 2021: How to watch this year’s best picture nominees in the UK

MORE : Megan Thee Stallion announces break from music and social media in very creative way