The end came last night at the Goa Medical College and Hospital, where he was admitted and undergoing treatment. He was 84.

Gonsalves, who orchestrated music for several Hindi songs during the 50s and 60s contributed to hit films like 'Mahal', 'Naya Daur' and 'Dillagi' among others.

The veteran musician was named as one of India's finest violinists in his time and worked with legends like S D Burman and Laxmikant-Pyarelal.

He left for Mumbai in 1943 as a child, when he played violin at the church in his village. Gonsalves later made a name for himself after he orchestrated music for songs like 'Jyoti Kalash Zhalke'. His musical arrangements in 'Hum aapki aankhon mein' in 'Pyaasa' and 'Ayega aaane wala' in 'Mahal' are considered among his best works.

Gonsalves, who taught Pyarelal violin, became a household name after the musician dedicated the song to his real life 'guru' in 1977 release 'Amar Akbar Anthony'. The song was picturised on Amitabh Bachchan.

He returned to his native place in Majorda in South Goa in 1983 and lived a life away from glory.