Bangalore, Jun 9 (IANS): Multilingual playback singer Manna Dey, 94, is in critical condition and battling for life at a private hospital in the city, a family friend said Sunday.

"Mannada is in critical condition because of multiple organ failure. He was admitted to a private hospital late Saturday when he complained of breathing problem due to chest infection," the friend told IANS.

The nonagenarian legendary singer has been ailing for some time due to age-related complications.

"He was rushed to Narayana Health hospital a month ago when he complained of uneasiness and weakness. But when his health improved later, he returned home 10 days ago as his life-supporting parameters were stable," the friend, who wished to remain unidentified, said.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee honoured Dey on his birthday May 1 with the Vishesh Maha-Sangeet Samman award at his home in the northeast suburbs of the city.

Manna Dey has recorded more than 3,500 songs during his career which began 1943. His oeuvre boasts of a range of songs -- from romantic numbers to classicals to fun songs, he went behind the mike to sing all kind of songs and proved his versatility.

The music genius's all-time hits include "Sur na saje kya gaun main", "Na to karanwa ki talash hai na to humsafar ki talash hain", "Puchho na kaise maine rain bitayee", "Laga chunari main daag", "Aaja sanam madhur chandani mein hum", "Dil ka haal sune dilwala", "Ye raat bhigi bhigi, ye mast fizayen", "Jhanak jhanak tori baaje payaliya", "Tu pyar ka saagar hai", "Chunari sambhal gori udi chali jaye re" and "Ay meri Zohara".

Dey was honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the country's highest award in the film world, in 2007.