Lyrics by Santosh Anand have carved a niche in the industry of Indian cinema. His words of old classics like "Ek Pyar Ka Nagma Hai" have continued to inspire and console human beings from generation to generation. However, the life of this distinguished lyricist bore the dual features of a grand artistry and somber tragedy.

Early Life and Entry into Cinema

Born on 5 March 1939 in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, Santosh Anand entered the Hindi film industry in 1970 with Purab Aur Paschim, under the music direction of Kalyanji-Anandji. His lyrical depth and emotional sensitivity quickly stood out. Over his career, he wrote 109 songs for 26 films and is considered among the most respected lyricists in the '70s and '80s.

Iconic Songs and Honors

Anand gave Bollywood some of its very emotionally charged songs. His lyrics for Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (for example, "Main Na Bhoolunga" and "Aur Nahin Bas Aur Nahin") and Pyaasa Sawan (such as "Tera Saath Hai To" and "Megha Re Megha Re") are still holding special places in his fans' hearts. The song "Yeh Galiyan Yeh Chaubara" from Prem Rog has become synonymous with farewells and partings.

Recognized by local awards for Best Lyricist (Filmfare), he first received it in 1974 for "Main Na Bhoolunga" and again in 1983 for "Mohabbat Hai Kya Cheez," which cemented Anand's place as one of Indian cinema's most eloquent voices.

Personal Tragedy

Despite professional accolades, Santosh Anand’s personal life has been marred by deep sorrow. Married for just a decade, he had one son, Sankalp, a respected teacher of sociology and criminology for IAS officers in the Ministry of Home Affairs. In a shocking and tragic event in 2014, Sankalp and his wife took their own lives by stepping in front of a train in Kosikalan. The loss devastated Anand, both emotionally and financially.

Since the tragedy, his daughter Shailaja Anand has taken on the role of his caregiver, helping him navigate life’s hardships.

Indian Idol Appearance and Public Support

Santosh Anand made a rare public appearance on Indian Idol 12, alongside composer Pyarelal. The episode brought his story to a wider audience and moved both the judges and viewers. Neha Kakkar, one of the judges, donated ₹5 lakh to help him during his financial crisis. Another judge was willing to work with him on putting out some of his unpublished work.

Neha sang “Ek Pyar Ka Nagma Hai” on the show, a moment that paid tribute to the greatness of Anand's poetry.

Legacy and Current Life

Santosh Anand is in his eighties now, with few physical possessions but innumerable beautiful musical memories. While his financial state remains modest, his lyrical legacy continues to shine. He may no longer be gracing society with his presence, but the songs that he created have etched themselves deeply in the hearts of millions.