Lyricist and film writer Syed Gulrez passes away in Los Angeles

Renowned poet, lyricist, and film writer Syed Gulrez passed away at Los Angeles on November 4, 2023. The son of the acclaimed novelist Adil Rashid, Syed Gulrez was a multifaceted writer whose work has left an indelible mark on the world of music and cinema.

Syed Gulrez's illustrious career was a testament to his exceptional talents. He collaborated with iconic composers like Viju Shah, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Naushad Ali, Anu Malik, Bapa Lahiri, Abhishek Ray, Bappi Lahiri, Gaurav Dasgupta, and various international record labels. His creative journey also intersected with a constellation of film luminaries, including Jagmohan Mundhra, Anand Mahendroo, Yash Chopra, Solila Parida, Joy Augustine, Kabir Bedi, and Akbar Khan, to name just a few.

Syed Gulrez's prowess extended to film scripting as well, and he left his imprint on projects like 'Zara Si Bhool – A Small Mistake,''Apartment,' 'Miami se New York,' and others. However, it was his work as a lyricist that marked the genesis of his film career, a path that began with Jagmohan Mundhra's 'Kamla.' The music for this film was composed by the legendary Bappi Lahiri, and the soulful renditions came courtesy of Salma Agha and Pankaj Udhas.



His lyrical genius continued to shine in subsequent films, such as 'Vishkanya,' 'Janam Kundli,' 'Aa Dekhen Zara,' 'Aloo Chaat,' 'Victory,' and many more. Syed Gulrez's poetic expressions and melodic narratives graced the soundtracks of these cinematic gems.

A testament to his poetic prowess, a collection of his Shayari has been compiled in a book titled 'Kuchh Dil Se.' This anthology encapsulates the essence of his artistic soul and serves as a tribute to his lyrical eloquence.


Rajesh Rathi, who embarked on his career as an assistant to Jagmohan Mundhra alongside Syed Gulrez during the making of 'Kamla,' fondly remembers the genius at work. "He was a spontaneous lyricist," says Rathi. During music sessions with the iconic Bappi Lahiri, Syed Gulrez would take a break, step outside for a cigarette, and, by the time the smoke cleared, his lyrics would be ready. Rathi reminisces, "He would always use me as a sounding board. His lyrics were consistently catchy and meaningful, and his sense of humor was unbeatable."

The passing of Syed Gulrez is a profound loss to the world of arts and entertainment. He was a writer of unparalleled talent, whose full potential was never fully realized, laments film director Rajesh Rathi. His legacy will forever resonate through the songs and stories he crafted, etching his name into the annals of Indian music and cinema.
Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”