From the sensual "Aaiye meherban" number from the film "Howrah Bridge" (1958) to romantic ones like "Ude jab jab zulfein teri" ("Naya Daur", 1957) and "Yeh chand sa roshan chehra" ("Kashmir Ki Kali", 1964), O.P. Nayyar, whose 81st birth anniversary falls Wednesday, has bestowed on Bollywood some of the best known and reminisced songs.

Nayyar, who was born Jan 16, 1926, in Lahore, made a mark in the world of Hindi film music with his unique style during his career that spanned nearly six decades.

In those days, nearly every successful composer like S.D. Burman, Naushad, Jaidev and Madan Mohan was classically trained. However, Nayyar, who passed away Jan 28, 2007, had no formal training in classical music.

"Nayyar sahab was a genius who churned out soul stirring 'original' music every time. His music was distinct and eternal. Even if you listen to his songs today, they touch your heart," noted singer Suchitra Krishnamurthy told.

It was in 1949 that Nayyar, known to friends as "O.P.", moved to Mumbai to try his luck in Bollywood. He got his first break in the film "Kaneez" in 1949.

It was in Guru Dutt's "Aar Paar" (1954) that he first tasted success, which was followed by the runaway musical hit "C.I.D." in 1956.

His other works include the Shammi Kapoor starrer "Tumsa Nahin Dekha" (1957) and Madhubala starrer "Howrah Bridge".

Nayyar continued to notch up more success with his lilting, peppy numbers and unforgettable numbers in the years that followed.

During his career he worked extensively with Asha Bhonsle, Geeta Dutt and Mohammad Rafi, but never with melody queen Lata Mangeshkar.

Asha was his "singing sensation" until the last days. In fact, the Nayyar-Asha duo scaled unprecedented heights and gave a string of hits like in "Naya Daur", for which he bagged the Filmfare award in 1957, "Kismet", "Kashmir Ki Kali", "Tumsa Nahin Dekha", "Phagun", etc.

The composer introduced the musical instrument sarangi to the Indian film industry.

He used mostly Punjabi rhythm in his evergreen tunes, "Kahin pe nigahen kahin pe nishana", "Yeh desh hai veer jawanon ka", and "Leke pehla pehla pyar".

"He is a legend in the true sense. He doled out some of the most monumental songs," said composer-singer Shibani Kashyap.

"Nayyar-ji's music is simple but heart touching, a treat for any music lover," she added.

His dignity and poise, apart from his signature hat, made him a striking picture of elegance and charm.

The maestro faded from the Bollywood scene in the 1970s, but made a surprise comeback in the 1990s with "Nishchaiy" and "Zid".

During his retirement, Nayyar estranged himself from his family and lived with his friend at Thane. He kept in touch with only a few of his friends. However, he frequently appeared on music talent hunt reality shows.

He died of cardiac arrest on Jan 28 last year.

"Nayyar's compositions exude exuberance, sensuality, and liveliness, and will continue to inspire generations," said a fan.

"Almost all of us have grown up listening to Nayyar-ji's compositions. The kind of simplicity and originality his music has, proves a source of inspiration for many," said singer Remo Fernandes.