The Chandogya Upanishad is one of the "primary" (mukhya) Upanishads. Together with the Jaiminiya Upanishad Brahmana and the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad it ranks among the oldest Upanishads, dating to the Vedic Brahmana period (probably before first millennium BCE).

It is associated with the Samaveda. It figures as number 9 in the Muktika canon of 108 Upanishads. It is part of the Chandogya Brahmana, which has ten chapters. The first two chapters of the Brahmana deal with sacrifices and other forms of worship. The other eight constitute the Chandogya Upanishad. Though there are more than two hundred Upanishads, ten are principal. These are called the Dashopanishads and are known for their philosophical depth, having become popular through the commentaries of Adi Shankara and Madhvacharya. Along with Brhadaranyaka Upanishad, the Chandogyopanishad is an ancient source of principal fundamentals of Vedanta philosophy. A number of references made to this Upanishad in Brahma sutras indicate the special importance of this Upanishad in Vedantic philosophy. Important Upasana's such as Dahara vidya and Shandilya vidya are its speciality.

Commentary

Of the available commentaries, the oldest was written by Adi Shankara. Adi Shankara stated that his commentary is a brief book for those who want a summary of this Upanishad. Ananda Giri mentioned in his commentary that a Dramidacharya wrote an elaborate and detailed commentary well before Adi Shakara, but little is known about this Dramidacharya and his work is now lost. Brahmanandi Tankacharya wrote a brief explanation for this upanishad and Dramidacharya wrote an elaborate and detailed commentary on the work of Brahmanandi Tankacharya. Sri Ramanuja makes many references to these two scholars in his commentaries, Vedanta Sangraha and Sri Bhasya.

Organization

The Chandogya Upanishad contains eight chapters, with each chapter divided into subchapters called Khandas.

First Chapter

The first chapter contains thirteen khanda's.

The first khanda ordains the Upasana of udgitha (or holy syllable OM). The syllable OM is called by the term udgitha since a priest designated as Udgata starts his singing of Sama's with OM in Vedic yajnas.

The second khanda ordains that udgitha should be meditated as Vital Life Force or Prana, and tells a story to explain the Holiness of Prana describing how it remained untouched by evil while all other five senses got tainted by evil.

Third khanda says that udgitha should be meditated as sun god.

Fourth khanda continues telling one more method ( Upasana )for meditating upon OM as the Eternal and Ultimate Refuge ( Amritam, Abhayam) and tells that one who mediatates this way becomes himself an Eternal and Ultimate Refuge.

Fifth khanda tells that one who meditates on the Sun and its rays as separate from each other or Prana and its functions such as speech etc. as separate from each other would beget many children.

One more Upasana of udgitha is told in Sixth khanda for obtaining all round wealth.

Seventh khanda ordains that OM (or udgitha) should be meditated as Purusha (Divine Person) present in the right eye who is nothing but another manifestation of Sun (Aditya)who in turn another manifestation of OM. Hence describes the equality of OM, Devine Person present in the Right Eye and Sun.

Another Upasana of udgitha is told in ninth and tenth khanda's which is said to result in a Superior Divine Essence ( Parovareeya Satva ) in the practitioner. This is told in the form of a story of Three Scholars of Sama.

Tenth and Eleventh khandas describe three parts of Sama called Prastava, udgitha and Pratihaara which are sung by priests in vedic Rituals and their respective gods through a Story of Priest Ushasti Chakrayana.

Twelfth khanda tells about the Udgitha Sama revealed by gods in the form of Dogs. The result of singing this Sama is availability of food.

Thirteenth khanda describes the various Upasana's of Sthobha-Akshara's.

Second Chapter

There are 24 khanda's in the second chapter. After having elaborated on different Upasana's of various organs of Sama, the second chapter elaborates many Upasana's of full Sama as a whole (that is, combined Sama with all Sama organs or parts). In other words, it can be said that if first chapter describes the Upasana of different body parts separately, the second chapter describes the Upasana's of whole body (Full Sama). Worshipping Full Sama or Whole Sama is described to be yielding good character (Saadhu Dharma) to worshipper in first khanda.

Second khanda describes Five-Fold Sama or Sama with Five Organs (Pancha Vidha Sama). HIM-Kara, Prastava, udgitha, Pratihara and Nidhana are the names of Five organs of Sama.

In second to seventh khanda's this Five-Fold Sama is ordained to be conceptualized or viewed as different worlds such as earth, heaven etc. in worldview, as wind, lightning etc. in view of process of raining, as cloud, rain, ocean etc. in water view, as different seasons like spring etc. in seasons view, as sheep etc. in animal view and finally as vital airs (Prana).

Each of these conceptualizations or views of FiveFold Sama is a separate Upasana of Fivefold Sama and described to be having definite fruit or result for the practitioner.

Eighth khanda ordains Seven-Fold Sama. Two more organs Adi and Upadrava are added to Five organs described in second khanda to make Sama Seven Fold. This Seven Fold Sama is ordained to be seen or viewed in the speech in eighth khanda. Fruit of this Upasana is worshipper never faces scarcity of food and will have enough food to provide for others.

Next Upasana is to meditate or view sevenfold sama in the movement of sun in the sky. Fruit of this upasana is worshipper attains Sun's form ( Aditya Swarupa ). This is the content of ninth khanda.

Tenth khanda ordains Upasana of syllables of seven organs of Seven Fold Sama (Sapta Vidha Sama Namakshara Upasana).

Khanda's 11-21 describe how some famous Samas or ( Sama Mantras ) to viewed.

Gayatra Sama is ordained to be viewed as Mind, Speech, Eye, etc.

Rathantara Sama is ordained to be viewed as process of generating fire by rubbing two wood pieces.

Vaamya Devya Sama is ordained to be viewed as mating process between male and female human beings.

Brihat Sama is ordained to be viewed as world activity as per of movement of sun across the horizon.

Vairupa Sama is ordained to be viewed as process of raining.

Vairaja Sama is ordained to be viewed as Seasonal Cycle.

Shakvaree Sama is ordained to be viewed as different worlds.

Revati Sama is ordained to be viewed as grazing animals.

Yagnya-Yagneeya Sama is ordained to be viewed as hair, skin, meat, etc.

Rajana Sama is ordained to be viewed as Fire, Wind, Stars, etc.

Finally Complete Sama or Sarva Sama is ordained to be viewed as three veda's (Trayi Vidya) which are Rigveda, Yajurveda and Sama veda and whole world.

Each of these Upasana's are mentioned along with a distinct fruit or result to the worshipper.

Later khandas of this chapter describe various modes of singing Sama, upasana on holy syllable OM, three Savana's, their respective gods and Sama's to them.

Third Chapter

This chapter has 19 khanda's. First 11 khanda's deal with Upasana of Sun and this Upasana is known as Madhu Vidya. Khandas 12 and 13 teach Brahman through Gayatri. 14th Khanda elaborates famous meditation Shandilya Vidya, known after its revealer the seer Shandilya. This Khanda describes the atman in terms of a grain: ‘This atman, which dwells in the heart, is smaller than a grain of rice, smaller than a grain of barely, smaller than a grain of mustard, smaller than a grain of millet, smaller than the germ which is in the grain of millet; this atman, which dwells in the heart, is also greater than the earth [the sphere of gross manifestation], greater than the atmosphere [the sphere of subtle manifestation], greater than the sky [the sphere of formless manifestation], greater than all the worlds together [that is, beyond all manifestation, being the unconditioned]. 15th Khanda describes Kosha Vidya for begetting long life and valour for one's son. 16th and 17th Khandas detail Purusha Vidya which results in increased life span of practitioner. It is told that seer Mahidasa Aitareya lived for 116 years by practicing Purusha Vidya. 18th Khanda ordains that Mind should be meditated as Brahman.

Fourth Chapter

A story of king Janushruti Pautrayana and Self realized seer Raikva is told in this chapter. A meditational practice called Samvarga Vidya is described.

Fifth Chapter

An esoteric knowledge of Five Fires ( Panchangi Vidya ) is described in this chapter.

Sixth Chapter

This chapter contains the most important message of this Upanishad. It establishes the principle of oneness of Atman with all beings and non beings. In this chapter, the famous story of Uddalaka and his son Shvetaketu is told and the dialogue between them establishes the principle of oneness of Atman. The Mahavakya Tat Tvam Asi ("That art Thou") is found in this chapter.

Seventh Chapter

In this chapter there is a well known dialogue between sage Sanatkumara and Narada establishing that realizing the ultimate principle of universe is only way to ride over sorrows of man.

Eighth Chapter

A meditation technique of concentrating in the cave of heart about Brahman (Dahara Vidya) is told in this chapter

See also

Isha Upanishad

Katha Upanishad

Primary resources

Chandogya Upanishad in ITRANS

Sources

S. Radhakrishnan, The Principal Upanishads

Sri Aurobindo, The Upanishads . Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Pondicherry. 1972.

Introduction by Sri Adidevananda: Chhandyogapanishads (Kannada translation)

External links

Chhandogya Upanishad - A translation by swami Nikhilananda

etext

Translation of Chandogya Upanishad at Celextel's Online Spiritual Library

Swami Krishnananda Speaks on The Chhandogya Upanishad - Contains audios

Category:Upanishads Category:Sanskrit words and phrases

Background	solo_singer
Name	Sunidhi Chauhan
Birth name	Nidhi Chauhan
Born	August 14, 1983 New Delhi, India
Origin	Indian
Instrument	Vocalist
Genre	playback singing, Indipop
Occupation	Singer
Years active	1996–present
Spouse	Bobby Khan (2002-2003)

Sunidhi Chauhan (; born Nidhi Chauhan on 14 August 1983) is an Indian playback singer, best known for her Hindi film songs in Bollywood. She is credited with over 2000 songs.

Chauhan began to sing at the age of four, and was discovered by a local TV anchor. She won recognition through a televised singing contest, Meri Awaz Suno, which she won, and made her entrance into playback singing with the Hindi film Shastra.

Chauhan stepped into the world of playback singing with the 1996 Bollywood film, Shastra, In April 2010, Chauhan joined Anu Malik and Salim Merchant as a judge on the fifth season of the immensely popular singing talent show, Indian Idol 5.

Collaborations

Chauhan has collaborated with Indian singers such as Alka Yagnik, Shaan, Udit Narayan, and is known for her popular pairing with Sukhwinder Singh (in films such as Omkara, Aaja Nachle). She is most often paired with singer Sonu Nigam, and with the successful female playback singer Shreya Ghoshal, whom many view as a stiff competition for Chauhan.

Lyricists she has worked with include Jaideep Sahni, Irshad Kamil, Gulzar, Sameer, Prasoon Joshi, Swanand Kirkire, the late Anand Bakshi and Javed Akhtar; music directors include Bappi Lahiri, A. R. Rahman, Anu Malik, Jatin Lalit, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, Pritam Chakraborty, Rajesh Roshan, Nadeem-Shravan, Anand-Milind, Vishal-Shekhar, Himesh Reshammiya and others. She was the main singer who lent her voice for the comebacks of two leading Bollywood actresses, Kajol, in the movie Fanaa; and Madhuri Dixit, in the movie Aaja Nachle. "amazing," "husky ... [and] sensuous". However, it has been noted that Chauhan can not hit high notes without losing some tonal quality, and people have cited her voice more suited to fast and pop songs, as compared to slow ones.

In 2007, while discussing Chauhan's popular song Beedi Jailaile, actress Bipasha Basu (on whom the song was picturised) said, "Sunidhi is a goddess. Her singing is so powerful. She added another dimension to my dancing."

Indian singer, Lata Mangeshkar has called Chauhan "one of the finest young singers." Ironically, Chauhan's item numbers have been said to mark the end of the "squeaky Lata era",

She was also a guest RJ for India's Radio City 91.1 FM's new morning show, Musical-e-Azam where, over her week-long stint, she interviewed the likes of Kunal Ganjawala, Daler Mehendi, Sukhwindar, Adnan Sami and Gulzar (lyricist).

Personal life

Chauhan was born in Delhi. Her father is a minor theatre personality who pushed her into the music industry from a young age. She has a younger sister, Suneha.

She completed her schooling from Greenway Modern School, Dilshad Garden.

Chauhan, who believes herself to be "the most versatile singer today," attributes her success to her parents and Indian singer Sonu Nigam. Chauhan also loves western music, and cites Mariah Carey and Michael Jackson as her inspirations. She has noted that one of her ambitions is to achieve global fame like them. She is also known for her admiration of international divas Celine Dion and Whitney Houston

Chauhan "changed" her image after making it big into Bollywood, upgrading her wardrobe and losing twelve kilos by jogging and working out. It was reported that the couple married in a secretly arranged ceremony, attended only by very close friends, and vigilantly watched over by security,

Chauhan was initially happy with the marriage. In an interview, she said:

"My in-laws don't make me feel I am 'married'. I don't feel I have stepped into a new house. I am so comfortable. And Bobby is a darling. I am very, very happy." However, Chauhan and Khan separated a year later, bringing about a reconciliation between the estranged parents and daughter. Chauhan, who lived with mentor, actor and TV anchor, Annu Kapoor and his wife Arunita during the separation, filed for divorce the same year, citing that she had realized she and Khan "wanted different things from life."

Filmography

Ehsaas - A Feeling (Released November 30, 2001) [Special Appearance]

Bas Ek Pal [Special Appearance in Promotional Song Dheeme Dheeme with singer K.K.]

Bhoot [Special Appearance in Promotional Song Bhoot Hoon Main]

Awards and honors

{| class=wikitable |- !Year !Category !Song and Film !Result |- style="background:#ddd;" | colspan="5" style="text-align:center;"| Filmfare Awards |- | 2000 | Best Playback Singer - Female || "Ruki Ruki" (Mast) || Nominated |- | rowspan=2|2001 | R. D. Burman Award for Most Promising Newcomer || || Winner |- | Best Playback Singer - Female || "Mehboob Mere" (Fiza) || Nominated |- | 2005 || Best Playback Singer - Female || "Dhoom Machale" (Dhoom) || Nominated |- | rowspan=2|2006 | Best Playback Singer - Female || "Kaisi Paheli" (Parineeta) || Nominated |- | Best Playback Singer - Female || "Deedar De" (Dus) || Nominated |- | rowspan=3|2007 | Best Playback Singer - Female || "Beedi" (Omakara) || Winner |- | Best Playback Singer - Female || "Soniye" (Aksar) || Nominated |- | Best Playback Singer - Female || "Aashiqui Main" (36 China Town) || Nominated |- | rowspan=2|2008 | Best Playback Singer - Female || "Aaja Nachle" (Aaja Nachle) || Nominated |- | Best Playback Singer - Female || "Sajnaji Vari Vari" (Honeymoon Travels Pvt. Ltd.) || Nominated |- | 2009 || Best Playback Singer - Female || "Dance Pe Chance" (Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi) || Nominated |- | 2010 || Best Playback Singer - Female || "Chor Bazari" ( Love Aaj Kal) || Nominated |- | 2011 || Best Playback Singer - Female || "Udi" ( Guzaarish) || Nominated |- | 2011 || Best Playback Singer - Female || "Sheila Ki Jiwani" ( Tees Maar Khan) || Nominated |- style="background:#ddd;" | colspan="5" style="text-align:center;"| Star Screen Awards |- | 2001 || Best Playback Singer - Female || Bhumro for Mission Kashmir || Nominated |- | 2004 || Best Playback Singer - Female || "Meri Zindagi Mein Aaye Ho for Armaan || Nominated |- | 2004 || Best Playback Singer - Female || Sajna Ve Sajna for Chameli || Winner |- | 2005 || Best Playback Singer - Female || Dhoom Machale (Dhoom) || Nominated |- | 2006 || Best Playback Singer - Female || "Kaisi Paheli" (Parineeta) || Nominated |- | 2007 || Best Playback Singer - Female || Beedi Jalaile for Omkara || Winner |- | 2008 || Best Playback Singer - Female || Sajnaji Vaari for Honeymoon Travels Pvt. Ltd. || Nominated |- | 2009 || Best Playback Singer - Female || Dance Pe Chance for Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi || Nominated |- | 2010 || Best Playback Singer - Female || Chor Bazari for Love Aaj Kal || Nominated |- | 2011 || Best Playback Singer - Female || Sheila Ki Jawani for Tees Maar Khan || Nominated |- style="background:#ddd;" | colspan="5" style="text-align:center;"| Awards of the International Indian Film Academy |- | 2001 || Best Female Playback Singer || Mehboob Mere for Fiza || Nominated |- | rowspan=2|2005 | Best Female Playback Singer] || Dhoom Machale for Dhoom || Winner |- | Best Female Playback Singer || Sajna Ve for Chameli || Nominated |- | style="text-align:left;" rowspan="2"|2006 | Best Female Playback Singer || Kaisi Paheli for Parineeta || Nominated |- | Best Female Playback Singer || Deedar De for Dus || Nominated |- | style="text-align:left;" rowspan="2"|2007 | Best Female Playback Singer || Crazy Kiya Re for Dhoom 2 || Nominated |- | Best Female Playback Singer || Beedi Jalaile for Omkara || Winner |- | 2008 || Best Female Playback Singer || Aaja Nachle for Aaja Nachle || Nominated |- | 2009 || Best Female Playback Singer || Desi Girl for Dostana || Nominated |- style="background:#ddd;" | colspan="5" style="text-align:center;"| Zee Cine Awards |- | rowspan=2|2005 | Best Female Playback Singer || Dhoom Machale for Dhoom || Winner |- | Best Female Playback Singer || Kaise Paheli Zindagi for Parineeta || Nominated |- | 2007 || Best Female Playback Singer || Beedi Jalaile for Omkara || Nominated |- style="background:#ddd;" | colspan="5" style="text-align:center;"| Apsara Awards |- | 2005 || Best Female Playback Singer || Dhoom Machale for Dhoom || Nominated |- | 2008 || Best Female Playback Singer || Aaaja Nachle (Aaja Nachle) || Nominated |- | 2011 || Best Female Playback Singer || Ainvayi Ainvayi (Band Baaja Baraat) || Nominated |- | 2011 || Best Female Playback Singer || Shiela Ki Jawani (Tees Maar Khan) || Nominated |- style="background:#ddd;" | colspan="5" style="text-align:center;"| Global Indian Film Awards |- | 2006 || Best Female Playback Singer || Beedi Jalaile (Omkara) || Nominated |- | style="text-align:center;" colspan="5"| |}

Bengali Film

. Director Arin Paul

References

External links

Official website

Category:1983 births Category:Living people Category:Bollywood playback singers Category:Indian female singers Category:Indian film singers Category:Idol series judges Category:People from Delhi Category:People from Mumbai Category:Indian pop singers Category:Indian singers Category:Indian television personalities Category:Rajput people

Name	Sonu Nigam
Background	solo_singer
Born	July 30, 1973Faridabad, Haryana, India
Instrument	Vocals
Genre	Pop, playback singing
Occupation	Singer, Actor, Music Director, Television presenter, Radio Jockey
Years active	1985 – present
Url	sonuniigaam.in

Sonu Nigam (; ; born 30 July 1973 in Faridabad, Haryana, India) is an Indian playback singer whose songs have been featured in numerous Hindi, Telugu, Marathi, Tamil and Kannada movies. He has also released numerous Indi-pop albums and acted in a few Hindi feature films. He has changed the spelling of his last name from 'Nigam' to 'Niigaam' in accordance with numerology, but not getting desired results, he returned to the old spelling 'Nigam'.

Career

Early years and playback singing

Sonu Nigam began his singing career at the age of three, when he joined his father on stage to sing Mohammad Rafi's "Kya Hua Tera Vaada, Wo Kasam Wo Irada." From then on Sonu accompanied his father on his singing appearances at weddings and parties. In his teenage years he participated in several music competitions successfully. He moved to Mumbai with his father to begin his Bollywood singing career at the age of 19.

His initial years in Mumbai proved to be a struggle, beginning by singing covers of Mohammad Rafi songs, mainly for a number of "Rafi Ki Yaadein" albums released by T-Series. T-Series promoter Gulshan Kumar played a key role in identifying Sonu's talent by giving him a chance to reach a larger audience. These albums contributed to T-Series for some years although Sonu's singing style was regarded by some to be like that of a "Rafi clone". Nigam's first movie song as a playback singer was in the film Janam (1990), which was never officially released. Sonu also got a break in several radio commercials until he appeared on the popular TV show Sa Re Ga Ma, after which there was no turning back. He was trained by Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan, a very fine classical singer.

Sonu started hosting Sa Re Ga Ma in 1995 with the first episode airing on the 1st of May 1995. Sa Re Ga Ma, television singing talent competition, soon became one of the most popular shows on Indian television. The format of that show gave Sonu a chance to showcase his singing skills as well as his natural charm and audience appeal. Soon after, he sang "Accha Sila Diya" on the album Bewafa Sanam (1995), which was very successful. He has also released several devotional albums, both Hindu and Islamic ones, as well as albums of Mohammad Rafi's songs. These are from the "Rafi Ki Yaadein" collection in his early years, which have been re-released in September 2007 as a 6-disc collection of 100 songs , titled "Kal Aaj Aur Kal", in Mohammad Rafi's memory. In 2008, soon after releasing "Classically Mild", he released a single Punjabi track called "Punjabi Please", and "Rafi Resurrected", a 2-disc collection of Mohammad Rafi songs with music by the Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. He has contributed to the lyrics of several of his album songs and directed the music for his album Chanda Ki Doli himself. His last album was Neene Bari Neene in Kannada.

He released a single titled "Punjabi Please" in 2008. After the untimely death of Micheal Jackson, of whom Sonu Nigam is a huge fan and who has considerably influenced his singing as is evident in his rendition of "Dil Deewana" in Pardes, Sonu released a tribute song to Micheal in collaboration with his fans on facebook. The song made it to an 18-song global compilation of tribute songs CD titled "The Beat of Our Hearts". Sonu Nigam is currently working on a new CD with famed Producer Rene van Verseveld at Future Sound Studios in Hollywood.

Over the years. Sonu has given concert performances in many countries, including United States, Canada, UK, France, Germany, Belgium, Holland, Spain, Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Russia, Afghanistan, UAE, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, West Indies, Suriname, Mauritius, Nigeria and South Africa. In May/June 2007, he participated in a star-studded show in North America called "The Incredibles" in which famed Asha Bhonsle and recent singing sensations, Kunal Ganjawala and Kailash Kher, participated. In September and October, respectively, of the same year, he gave solo concerts titled, "Simply Sonu", in Canada and Germany, (becoming the first Indian singer to perform in the latter country). In April 2008, he did a marathon of concerts in various cities in India, promoting his Punjabi single "Punjabi Please".

In November 2007, at the inauguration of Harvard University's 28th president, Dr. Drew Gilpin Faust, Sonu sang with the Harvard College Sangeet the late Mahatma Gandhi's favorite bhajan, " Vaishnav Jan To Tene Kahiye".

In July 2008, he participated in a three-city tour of the United Kingdom, singing numerous famous Mohammad Rafi songs with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. This followed the release of these songs by the CBSO and the Indian music company Sa Re Ga Ma in a historic album entitled "Rafi Resurrected".

Amongst several other concerts, he notably participated in a US tour with Sunidhi Chauhan in 2009 called "The Explosion 2009" tour and in a UK tour titled "All Izz Well" in November 2010.

Television, radio and acting

Besides "Sa Re Ga Ma," Sonu Nigam also hosted the TV show "Kisme Kitna Hai Dum" and has appeared as a celebrity talent judge on the show Indian Idol (aired on Sony Entertainment Television) seasons 1 and 2. Sonu returned to Indian Idol in its third and fourth seasons as a judge. He was also a celebrity judge on Amul Star Voice of India in August 2007 in season 1 and in December 2008 in season 2. In October 2007, Sonu returned to the sets of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa (formerly called Sa Re Ga Ma and again hosted by himself) in a historical moment of sorts, this time as a judge along with Suresh Wadkar. This was for the Sa Re Ga Ma Pa L'il Champs International, a children's singing competition part of the show.

Sonu's acting career started as a child artist in a number of films including 1983's Betaab. As an adult, Sonu has acted in a few more films, namely alongside Sunny Deol, Manisha Koirala and Akshay Kumar as well as other actors; Kash Aap Hamare Hote, where he plays the male lead opposite Juhi Babbar, daughter of Raj Babbar; and most recently, Love in Nepal with Flora Saini and Sweta Keswani, where he again plays a leading role. However it is to be said that all three films have not done well at the box-office. although his acting was much better appreciated in his last venture. He has not taken up acting since his last venture Love in Nepal, but has recently been said to be involved in another film as a lead actor. The film, called Ankhon Ankhon Mein is supposedly about a blind singer.

Future projects

Sonu Nigam has a new album in the pipeline. His future projects also include an English album called Spirit Unfolding. He may be acting in a new film called Ankhon Hi Ankhon Mein, about a blind singer, although he has not officially signed it yet.

He is working on a unique project called Time Travel, wherein his voice will be aligned with erstwhile singers in yesteryear Hindi songs.

Popularity in Karnataka

Sonu Nigam is immensely popular in South India, particularly in Karnataka due to his Kannada songs. He sang his first Kannada song in 1999 for the movie Snehaloka. But in 2006,his songs from the movie Mungaru Male became chart-busters and Sonu became an overnight star. In the subsequent years he has won Filmfare Awards South for his songs in Milana and Mussanjemaatu.

In August 2009, he released his first Kannada album Neene Bari Neene composed by ace music director Mano Murthy with lyrics by Jayant Kaikini.

Personal life and voluntary work

Sonu Nigam comes from a singing family. Born to Agam Kumar Nigam and Shobha Nigam on 30 July 1973 in Faridabad, Haryana, India, he attended the J.D. Tytler School. He has two sisters, Meenal and Neekita. In the last few years his father has released several hit albums including "Bewafaai" and "Phir Bewafaai" and, more recently, "Bewafaai ka Aalam". Neekita is also an up and coming singer and has several songs and awards to her name, both in Hindi and Kannada. Sonu married Madhurima on 15 February 2002. They have a son, Nevaan, born in 2007. Nevaan is also very interested in music and has recently recorded a song with Lata Mangeshkar.

Sonu Nigam practices fitness and yoga exercises, and has trained in taekwondo.

Nigam has done work for various charities all over India as well as abroad for Dignity Foundation, various cancer organizations, leprosy organizations, blindness organizations, women's welfare organizations, kargil war affected families, earthquake affected families. He also sponsors a child from the organization “Crayon”.

National Film Awards

* 2004 - Won - National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer - "Kal Ho Naa Ho" - Kal Ho Naa Ho

Filmfare Awards

* 1997 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Sandese Aate Hain" - Border (with Roop Kumar Rathod)

* 1999 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Ishq Bina" - Taal

* 2000 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Tu Fiza Hain" - Fiza

* 2000 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Panchhi Nadiyaan" - Refugee

* 2001 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Suraj Hua Maddham" - Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham

* 2002 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer - "Saathiya" - Saathiya

* 2003 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer - "Kal Ho Naa Ho" - Kal Ho Naa Ho

* 2004 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Do Pal" - Veer-Zaara

* 2004 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Main Hoon Na" - Main Hoon Na

* 2004 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Tumse Milke Dil Ka" - Main Hoon Na

* 2005 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Dheere Jalna" - Paheli

* 2005 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Piyu Bole" - Parineeta

* 2006 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna" - Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna

* 2007 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Main Agar Kahoon" - Om Shanti Om

* 2008 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Inn Lamhon Ke" - Jodhaa Akbar

* 2009 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Shukran Allah" - Kurbaan (with Salim Merchant)

Filmfare Awards South

* 2008 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer (Kannda) - "Ninnindale Ninnindale" - Milana

* 2009 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer (Kannda) - "Eenagali Mundhe Saagu" - Mussanjemaatu

* 2009 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer (Kannda) - "Mayavagide Manasu" - Haage Summane

Star Screen Award

* 1998 - Won - Best Male Pop Artist

* 2000 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Panchhi Nadiyaan" - Refugee

* 2001 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer - "Tanhayee" - Dil Chahta Hai

* 2001 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Is Pyaar Ko Main Kya Naam Doon" - Mujhe Kucch Kehna Hai

* 2003 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Kal Ho Naa Ho" - Kal Ho Naa Ho

* 2004 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer - "Tumse Milke Dil Ka" - Main Hoon Na

* 2005 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer - "Dheere Jalna" - Paheli

* 2006 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Baawri Piya Ki" - Baabul

International Indian Film Academy Awards

* 2000 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Panchhi Nadiyaan" - Refugee

* 2001 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer - "Suraj Hua Maddham" - Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham

* 2001 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "You Are My Soniya" - Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham

* 2002 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer - "Saathiya" - Saathiya

* 2003 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer - "Kal Ho Naa Ho" - Kal Ho Naa Ho

* 2004 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Main Hoon Na" - Main Hoon Na

* 2005 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Piyu Bole" - Parineeta

* 2006 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna" - Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna

* 2009 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "All Izz Well" - 3 Idiots

Zee Cine Awards

* 1997 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer - "Sandese Aate Hain" - Border ^†

* 2001 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer – Male - "Suraj Hua Maddham" - Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham

* 2001 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Tanhayee" - Dil Chahta Hai

* 2002 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer - "Saathiya" - Saathiya

* 2003 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Kal Ho Naa Ho" - Kal Ho Naa Ho

* 2004 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Main Hoon Na" - Main Hoon Na

* 2005 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Piyu Bole" - Parineeta

* 2005 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Dheere Jalna" - Paheli

* 2006 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna" - Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna

* 2007 - Nominated - Best Male Playback Singer - "Main Agar Kahoon" - Om Shanti Om

Bollywood Movie Awards

* 2003 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer - "Kal Ho Naa Ho" - Kal Ho Naa Ho

* 2001 - Won - Best Pop Singer for the album Yaad

* 2002 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer - "Saathiya" - Saathiya

* 2006 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer - "Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna" - Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna

MTV Immies

* 2002 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer - "Saathiya" - Saathiya

* 2003 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer - "Main Hoon Na" - Main Hoon Na

* 2004 - Won - Best Pop Album - Chanda Ki Doli

MTV Style Awards

* 2003 - Style Icon 2003

* 2005 - Style Icon 2005

Anandalok Awards

2004 - Best Male Playback Singer - Bandhan

* 2005 - Best Pop Album - Chanda Ki Doli

Annual Central European Bollywood Awards

* 2007 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer - "Main Agar Kahoon" - Om Shanti Om

* 2008 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer - "Inn Lamhon Ke Daaman Me" - Jodha Akbar

Lions Gold Award

* 2005 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer - "Main Hoon Na" - Main Hoon Na

* 2008 - Won - Best Male Playback Singer - "Inn Lamhon Ke Daaman Me" - Jodha Akbar

Indian Television Academy Award

* 2005 - Best Male Singer - Miliee

* 2008 - Best Male Singer - Amber Dhara

* 2009 - Best Male Singer - Dill Mill Gayye

Other Awards

* 1997 - Ashirwad Award for Best Male Playback Singer - "Sandese Aate Hain" - Border

* 1997 - Sansui Viewers' Choice Award for Best Male Singer - "Sandese Aate Hain" - Border

* 2003 - Apsara Film Producers' Guild Award for Best Male Playback Singer - "Kal Ho Naa Ho" - Kal Ho Naa Ho

* 2005 - Swaralaya Yesudas Award, for his outstanding performance in Music

* 2005 - Teachers' Achievement Award

* 2006 - Nominated - Global Indian Film Awards - Best Male Playback Singer - "Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna" - Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna

* 2008 - GPBA (German Public Bollywood Award) for Best Male Playback Singer - "Main Agar Kahoon" - Om Shanti Om

2010 - GIMA (Global Indian Music Award) for Best Live Performer (Male)

† - Refused on the ethical ground of co-singer Roop Kumar Rathod not being nominated.

Discography

Filmography

{| class="wikitable sortable" |- !Film Title !!Character !!Year |- |Pyaara Dushman ||Tika Singh (credited as Master Sonu) || 1980 |- |Kaamchor ||Sonu (Rakesh Roshan's nephew), (credited as Master Sonu) || 1982 |- |Ustaadi Ustaad Se ||Raju (Young Mithun Chakraborty), (credited as Master Sonu) || 1982 |- |Betaab ||Sunny (Young Sunny Deol), (credited as Master Sonu) || 1983 |- |Hum se hai zamana ||Shiva (Young Mithun Chakraborty), (credited as Master Sonu) || 1983 |- |Taqdeer ||Shiva (Young Shatrughan Sinha), (credited as Master Sonu) || 1983 |- | ||Vivek Saxena || 2002 |- |Kash Aap Hamare Hote ||Jai Kumar || 2003 |- |Love in Nepal ||Abby || 2004 |- |Navra Maajha Navsacha (Marathi)||Guest appearance as himself in a song sequence || 2005 |}

References

External links

Official site

Category:1973 births Category:Living people Category:Kayastha Category:Indian singers Category:Indian film singers Category:Bollywood playback singers Category:Kannada playback singers Category:Indian film score composers Category:Indian pop singers Category:Indian male singers Category:Indian television presenters Category:Hindi film actors Category:Indian child actors Category:Indian actors Category:Indian film actors Category:Performers of Hindu music Category:People from Faridabad Category:Idol series judges Category:Sa Re Ga Ma Pa participants Category:Indian Hindus Category:People from Haryana

Name	Shahid Kapoor
Caption	Shahid Kapoor on Amul STAR Voice of India (2007).
Yearsactive	2003 – present
Birthname	Shahid Kapoor
Birthdate	February 25, 1981
Birth place	Delhi, India
Occupation	Film actor

Shahid Kapoor (; born on 25 February 1981) is an Indian actor who appears in Hindi language films. He is also a trained dancer.

Starting off his career by working in music videos and advertisements, Kapoor made his Bollywood debut as a background dancer in Subhash Ghai's Taal (1999). Four years later, he made his debut as a lead in Ishq Vishk (2003) and won a Filmfare Best Male Debut Award for his performance. Following through with acclaimed performances in films like Fida (2004) and Shikhar (2005), he had his first commercial success with Sooraj R. Barjatya's Vivah (2006), and followed it up with Jab We Met (2007) and Kaminey (2009) which are also his biggest commercial successes so far.

Career

Early career, until 2005

Before starting off his career as an actor, Kapoor worked in several music videos and ads, including the Pepsi commercial with Shahrukh Khan, Kajol and Rani Mukerji post Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998) and the music video Aankhon Me Tera Hi Chehra by the Aryans along with Hrishitaa Bhatt. While doing so, he decided to join the Shiamak Davar Institute for the Performing Arts (SDIPA), where he was later seen in Subhash Ghai's film Taal (1999) as a background dancer in the song Kahin Aag Lage Lag Jawe along with actress Aishwarya Rai and in Dil To Pagal Hai (1997) of Yash Raj banner with actress Karisma Kapoor.

In 2003, Kapoor played his first leading role as Rajiv Mathur, a carefree young man in Ken Ghosh's moderately successful love story Ishq Vishk. Appearing opposite Amrita Rao and Shenaz Treasurywala, the film was well received by audiences and Kapoor's performance earned him a Filmfare Best Male Debut Award. Film critic Taran Adarsh from indiaFM wrote, "Shahid Kapoor is an actor to watch. He has all the qualities to hit the top slot. Not only is he good looking, but he is an amazing performer as well. Very original as a performer [sic], the youngster has handled the dramatic and emotional moments with flourish. He is an exceptional dancer as well. All he needs to do is pick and choose his forthcoming assignments with care, so that the journey to the top slot is minus hiccups."

The following year, Kapoor joined once again with director Ken Ghosh in the thriller Fida, where he co-starred alongside Kareena Kapoor and Fardeen Khan. The film failed to do well at the box office, yet Kapoor's performance was praised. The Tribune concluded, "...Shahid Kapoor shines in his role. He looks fresh. As an impulsive emotional and innocent guy, who is sucked into crime because of these very qualities, he manages to evoke your sympathies." He then appeared in the romantic comedy Dil Maange More opposite Soha Ali Khan, Tulip Joshi, and Ayesha Takia. His performance opened to mixed reviews; Rediff.com wrote that "Shahid tends to imitate Shahrukh Khan a lot. He does it well in some scenes, overdoes it in others..."

Featuring in three more films in 2005, success continued to elude Kapoor. However, his performance as Jaidev Vardhan, a man who is sucked into the world of money and greed in John M. Matthan's drama Shikhar was critically acclaimed, earning Kapoor his first Star Screen Award for Best Actor nomination. According to IndiaFM, "Shahid Kapoor is only improving with every film. He matches up to Ajay in almost all sequences."

Breakthrough, 2006–present

In 2006, Kapoor starred in 36 China Town. Revolving around the story of seven individuals and a murder, the film became a moderate success despite receiving mixed reviews from critics. Shortly after the release of the film, Kapoor's second release of the year, Priyadarshan's comedy Chup Chup Ke, followed. The film became a moderate success at the box office. Kapoor's performance earned his second consecutive nomination for Best Actor at the Star Screen Awards. Taran Adarsh wrote, "Shahid Kapoor performs like never before. If he was super-cool in Ishq Vishk and showed flashes of brilliance in Fida, you've to watch him in Vivah to see his growth as a tremendous actor. He is exceptional in emotional sequences."

During the summer of 2006, Kapoor embarked on his first world tour, the Rockstars Concert, along with Bollywood stars, Salman Khan, Kareena Kapoor, John Abraham, Esha Deol, Mallika Sherawat and Zayed Khan.

In 2007, Kapoor appeared in two movies. His first release was Ahmed Khan's Fool and Final. The film received negative reviews and failed to do well at the box office; Kapoor's performance in the film did not receive positive reviews. His next release, Imtiaz Ali's comedy-romance Jab We Met, opposite Kareena Kapoor, became one of the biggest hits of the year.

Kapoor then appeared in the Aziz Mirza-directed film, Kismat Konnection (2008), opposite Vidya Balan. Upon release, the film under-performed at the box office.

In 2009, Kapoor portrayed the dual role of twins Charlie and Guddu in the crime film Kaminey. Directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, the film was a critical and commercial success and received mostly positive reviews. Kapoor's performance was also critically acclaimed. Rajeev Masand from CNN-IBN wrote, "Shahid Kapur rises to the challenge of creating two entirely different characters out of Charlie and Guddu, and delivers a credible performance as each. Breaking out of his chocolate-boy image, he gives evidence of his potential when trusted with well-written roles." Later in the year, Kapoor appeared in Anurag Singh's romantic comedy Dil Bole Hadippa! alongside Rani Mukerji.

In 2010, Kapoor appeared in Ken Ghosh's film Chance Pe Dance opposite Genelia D'Souza, in which he portrayed the role of a struggling Bollywood actor. The movie received poor review from critics, but Kapoor's performance was well received. He then starred in Ahmed Khan's Paathshala alongside Ayesha Takia and Nana Patekar followed by Yash Raj Films' moderately successful Badmaash Company. As of April 2010, Kapoor has completed filming for Satish Kaushik's Milenge Milenge, which released on July 9, 2010.

Personal life

Kapoor was born to actor Pankaj Kapoor and actor/classical dancer Neelima Azeem on 25 February 1981. Kapoor's parents divorced when he was three. After the divorce, he lived with his mother and maternal grandparents in Delhi. He shared a good relationship with his father and stepmother Supriya Pathak. As far as his religious affiliation is concerned, Kapoor has stated in an interview that while his father is a Hindu and his mother is a Muslim, both his parents have taught him that he "should look at all religions without hatred and have compassion for every human being whatever his religion may be," saying that he believes that "there is one God up above."

He studied in Rajhans Vidyalaya, Mumbai. Kapoor is a vegetarian. He has three half siblings: a sister named Sanah and brothers named Ruhaan and Ishaan Khattar; Ishaan acted with him in the movie Vaah! Life Ho To Aisi (2005). His maternal grandfather was Anwar Azeem, a noted Marxist journalist and author from Bihar. His great great grandfather was the film director, screenwriter, Urdu novelist and journalist Khwaja Ahmad Abbas more popularly known as K. A. Abbas. His mother Neelima is the daughter of Anwar Azeem, one of the greatest Urdu writers. K.A. Abbas in turn was the grandson of Hali, the chief protégé of Urdu poet, Ghalib.

While filming Fida (2004), Kapoor began dating Kareena Kapoor. They dated for three years and then separated during the filming of Jab We Met (2007). According to him, they remained on good terms, with him saying, "I wish her all the happiness in the world. I have great respect for her. She is a wonderful girl."

Awards and nominations

Filmography

{| border="2" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaa solid; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 95%;" |- bgcolor="#CCCCCC" align="center" ! Year !! Title !! Role !! Other notes |- | 1999 || Taal || || Background dancer in song Kahin Aag Lage Lag Jawe |- | 2003 || Ishq Vishk || Rajiv Mathur || Winner, Filmfare Best Male Debut Award |- |rowspan="2"|2004 || Fida || Jai Malhotra || |- | Dil Maange More || Nikhil Mathur || |- |rowspan="3"|2005 || Deewane Huye Paagal || Karan || |- | Vaah! Life Ho Toh Aisi! || Aditya (Adi) Verma || |- | Shikhar || Jaidev Vardhan (Jai) || |- |rowspan="3"|2006 || 36 China Town || Raj Malhotra || |- | Chup Chup Ke || Jeetu Prasad || |- | Vivah || Prem || |- |rowspan="2"|2007 || Fool n Final || Raja/Rahul || |- | Jab We Met || Aditya Kashyap || Nominated, Filmfare Best Actor Award |- | 2008 || Kismat Konnection || Raj Malhotra || |- |rowspan="2"|2009 || Kaminey || Charlie/Guddu || Nominated, Filmfare Best Actor Award |- | Dil Bole Hadippa! || Rohan Singh || |- |rowspan="4"|2010 || Chance Pe Dance || Sameer Behl || |- | Paathshaala || Rahul Prakash Udyavar ||Extended Cameo |- | Badmaash Company || Karan || |- | Milenge Milenge || Amit Singh (Immy) || |- | 2011 || Mausam || Rohan || Filming |}

See also

List of Indian film actors

References

External links

Kapoors, Shahid Kapoor, Shahid Kapoor, Shahid Kapoor, Shahid Kapoor, Shahid Category:People from Mumbai Kapoor, Shahid Category:Indian vegetarians

Name	Kunal Ganjawala
Background	solo_singer
Birth name	Kunal Ganjawala
Born	Mumbai, India
Spouse	Gayatri Ganjawala (2005 - present)
Genre	Playback singing
Occupation	Singer
Years active	2002–present

Spouse	Gayatri Ganjawala

Kunal Ganjawala (Hindi : कुणाल गांजावाला) is an Indian singer, known primarily for his work as a Hindi playback singer, but he also works in the Bengali, Marathi and Kannada film industries. His breakthrough hit, Bheegey Hont from the film Murder, won the 2005 Zee Cine Award for Best Playback Singer (male). He sang four songs in Saawariya, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, who is his cousin. He has also participated in Sa Re Ga Ma, an Indian singing talent competition on Zee TV (now Sa Re Ga Ma Pa) back in the days when it was hosted by Sonu Nigam. He was recently himself a judge on Amul Star Voice of India, another singing competition on Star TV, which he judges together with Shreya Ghosal and Pritam.

Early life

He has done his schooling from St. Peter's School, Mazagaon.

He says his singing career began in school:

Personal life

In 2005, he married fellow singer Gayatri Iyer. They performed the title track for STAR One's Antakshari together.

Kunal Ganjawala is lovingly called by the name Kunal Cocainewala by his fans and fellow singers.

Career

Other than Hindi, he also sings songs in the Tamil, Kannada, Marathi, Punjabi, Bengali, Telugu,and sindhi languages.

His Hindi song "Bheege Honth Tere" from Murder was a hit and won him several awards in that year, including a Filmfare-Best Male Playback Singer award in 2005.

His song "Channa Ve Ghar aa jaa" from a Punjabi album Channa Ve by DJ Anit was also a success.

In 2007, he participated in a concert tour in North America, called "The Incredibles", also starring Asha Bhosle, Sonu Nigam and Kailash Kher.

On 3 April 2010 he performed at RECSTACY, the annual cultural event of NIT-DURGAPUR.

On 26 November 2010 he performed at "SDSDMCETV", the mega fest event of SDMCET

Filmography

The IMDb includes almost all language songs which Mr. Ganjawala sang.

Hindi Films

"Humdum suniyo ree" - Saathiya

"Bheegey Hont" - Murder

"Kyaa Kool Hai Hum" - Title Song

Akkad Te Bakkad te" - Tango Charlie

"Chodo na Mujhe" -

"Dil Keh Raha Hai" - Kyon Ki

"Love You My Angel" - Pyare Mohan

"Dil Na Diya" - Krrish

Udh Jaana Bro" - Jaan-E-Mann

"Har manzar" - Baabul

"Bebasi Dard Ka Aalam" - Baabul

"Salaam-E-Ishq" - Title Song

"Dupatta Tera Nau Rang Da" - Partner

"Kaal Dhamaal" - Kaal

"Tauba Tauba" - Kaal

"Masha-Allah", "Jaaneman" and "Pari" - Saawariya

"Salaam Namaste" and "What's Going On" - Salaam Namaste

"Yaar Ko Maine" -Sheesha

"Main Hoon Romeo" and Apni Dum Bhi Oonchi Ho" - Roadside Romeo

"Everything's Gone Be Alright" - Jumbo

"channa-ve-ghar aa jaa ve"

"Raat Ke Dhai Baje" - Kaminey

"Kata Kata - Raavan

"Nana Chi Taang" - Khatta Meetha (2010)

"Tere Pyaar Mein" - Isi Life Mein(2010)

"Sau Gram Zindagi" - Guzarish

"Jadugari" - Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji

"Beshuba" - Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji

Bengali Films

Fighter - Marbo Noye Morbo. Director Ravi Kinagi; 2011

Se Din Dekha Hoye Chillo. Director Sujit Mondal; 2010

Dui Prithibi. Director Raj Chakraborty; 2010

Amanush. Director Rajib Biswas; 2010

Prem Amar. Director Raj Chakraborty; 2010

Le Chakka. Director Raj Chakraborty; 2010

Mon Je Kore Uru Uru. Director Sujit Guha; 2010

Sabdhan Pancha Aashche. Director Arin Paul

Minister Fatakesto. Director Swapan Saha; 2007

Marathi Films

Mr. Ganjawala sang a few Marathi film songs, which became very big hits and got him a big fame as a versatile singer with equal capability to sing the songs in different languages. A couple of those are listed below.

Varyavarti Gandh Pasarla - (Sawarkhed..Ek Gaon)

Dena Paisa Dena - (Uladhaal)

bayago bayago - (Ringa Ringa)

Kannada Films

Kunal entered the Kannada film industry in 2005 with the song Neene neene from Akash which was a huge hit and since then he has become one of the most popular Kannada film song singer. His hits include:

onde ondu sari (Mungaaru male) rocks

* Hrudayada Maathu (Soundarya)

Ninnanna Ninnanne (Suntaragali)

Na ninna pritiyalli (Julie)

Nimbiya banada myagala (Sevanthi sevanthi)

Ee saundaryakke (Datta)

Manasa (Datta)

Hudugi Hudugi (Aishwarya)

Aishwarya aishwarya (Aishwarya)

Kaayutaliruva kannige (Pandavaru)

Gilli (Ravi Shastri)

Preethse (Uppi Daada MBBS)

Enayitu Nanagidina (Ajay)

Maatu Muride (Ganda Hendati)

Nidirege raja (Ganda Hendati)

Don't Let Me (Ganda Hendati)

Preeti naanu (Mohini 9886788888)

Appa amma beda andre (Student)

Omariya (Akash)

Neene Neene (Akash)

Ninna Kanda Kshana (Arasu)

Nanagu Ninagu (Aramane)

Ninagende Visheshavada (Pruthvi)

Khushiyagide yeko {Taj Mahal}

Nenedena ninnane nenedena {onde ondu sari}

Telugu Films

Kunal Ganjawala entered Telugu films with the song 'Jagadame' in blockbuster movie "POKIRI" starring Mahesh Babu and Ileana in the lead roles. His latest song in Telugu is " Karige Loga " from the movie "Arya-2". Another hit song is "Tu Tu Tu" from the movie "Ready" which is composed by Devi Sri Prasad. Even before these three, gave his voice for the 'Spiderman' (movie Naani) starring Mahesh Babu and Amisha Patel and 'Hyderabadi Ladka' in the movies Balu. And He Sung very good song in TAJMAHAL-2009. ETU CHUSINA. Its very good song

2010 - Simha - "Janaki"

2009 - Taj Mahal - "Etu Chusina"

2009 - Arya 2 - "Karige Loga"

2009 - Adurs - "Neethone"

2009 - Ganesh - "Raja Kumari"

2006 - Pokiri - "Jagadame"

2005 - Balu abcdefg - "Hyderabadi Ladka"

2004 - Nani - "Spiderman"

2008 - Ready - "Tu Tu Tu"

Tamil Films

Kunal Ganjawala has sung the title song 'Maa ganga' from the movieNaan Kadavul under the baton of legendary composer ilayaraja.

Music Department

Aloo Chaat (2009) (playback singer)

Jumbo (2008) (playback singer)

Roadside Romeo (2008) (playback singer) (as Ganjawalla Kunal)

Money Hai Toh Honey Hai (2008) (singer)

Via Darjeeling (2008) (playback singer)

Accident (2008) (playback singer)

One Two Three (2008) (playback singer)

Mumbai Salsa (2007) (playback singer)

50 Lakh (2007) (playback singer)

Dhol (2007) (playback singer)

Buddha Mar Gaya (2007) (playback singer)

Partner (2007) (playback singer)

Apne (2007) (playback singer)

... aka Ours (India: English title: literal title)

Raqeeb (2007) (playback singer)

Kya Love Story Hai (2007) (playback singer)

Shakalaka Boom Boom (2007) (playback singer)

Traffic Signal (2007) (playback singer) (as Kunal Ganjawalla)

Bhupathi (2007) (playback singer)

... aka Guru Bhai (India: Hindi title: dubbed version)

Woh Lamhe (2006) (playback singer)

Khosla Ka Ghosla! (2006) (playback singer)

... aka Khosla's Nest (UK: subtitle)

Pyaar Ke Side Effects (2006) (playback singer)

Aap Ki Khatir (2006) (playback singer)

... aka Only for You (India: English title)

Ahista Ahista (2006) (playback singer)

Golmaal: Fun Unlimited (2006) (playback singer)

Krrish (2006) (playback singer)

... aka There's No One Like You (International: English title)

Alag: He Is Different.... He Is Alone... (2006) (playback singer)

Chup Chup Ke (2006) (playback singer)

36 China Town (2006) (playback singer)

Pyare Mohan (2006) (playback singer)

Sawaan.... The Love Season (2006) (playback singer)

Aisa Kyon Hota Hai? (2006) (playback singer)

Aksar (2006) (playback singer)

... aka Often (India: English title: literal title)

Anjaane: The Unknown (2005) (playback singer)

... aka Anjaane: The Unknown (India: English title: orthographically correct title)

Dosti: Friends Forever (2005) (playback singer)

Vaah! Life Ho Toh Aisi! (2005) (playback singer)

Ek Ajnabee (2005) (playback singer)

... aka One Stranger (International: English title)

Neal 'N' Nikki (2005) (playback singer)

The Hangman (2005) (playback singer)

Deewane Huye Paagal (2005) (playback singer: "Aisi umar mein")

Ek Khiladi Ek Haseena (2005) (playback singer: "Ishq Hai Jootha")

Kyon Ki... (2005) (playback singer)

Rain: The Terror Within... (2005) (playback singer) (as Kunal Ganjewala)

Chocolate (2005) (playback singer)

Salaam Namaste (2005) (playback singer)

Fareb (2005) (playback singer)

Bachke Rehna Re Baba (2005) (playback singer)

... aka Beware (India: English title: informal title)

Kyaa Kool Hai Hum (2005) (playback singer)

... aka We Are So Cool (International: English title)

Kaal (2005) (playback singer)

Kuchh Meetha Ho Jaye (2005) (playback singer)

Nigehbaan: The Third Eye (2005) (playback singer)

Chehraa (2005) (playback singer)

Sheesha (2005) (playback singer)

Ponniyin Selvan (2005) (playback singer) (as Kunal)

Musafir (2004) (playback singer)

Ab... Bas! (2004) (playback singer)

Hulchul (2004) (playback singer)

Naach (2004) (playback singer)

Stop! (2004) (playback singer)

Dhoom (2004) (playback singer) (as Hunal Ganjawala)

Kyun...! Ho Gaya Na (2004) (playback singer)

Taarzan: The Wonder Car (2004) (playback singer)

Lakshya (2004) (playback singer)

Uuf Kya Jaadoo Mohabbat Hai... (2004) (playback singer)

Bardaasht (2004) (playback singer)

Meenaxi: Tale of 3 Cities (2004) (playback singer)

Murder (2004) (playback singer)

Tum: A Dangerous Obsession (2004) (playback singer) (as Kunal Ganjewala)

Khakee (2004) (playback singer) (as Kunal)

... aka The Uniform (International: English title: informal literal title)

Paisa Vasool (2004) (playback singer)

... aka Moneysworth (International: English title)

Run (2004) (playback singer) (as Kunal)

Tere Naam (2003) (vocal)

Saaya (2003) (playback singer)

Saathiya (2002) (playback singer) (as Kunal)

Soundtrack

Detective Naani (2009) (performer: "Yahoo! Baby")

Heroes (2008) (performer: "Wat'S Up My Bro", "Wat'S Up My Bro - Cruiser")

Via Darjeeling (2008) (performer: "Sirf Ehsaas", "Phir bhi")

Saawariya (2007) (performer: "Masha Allah", "Jaan-E-Jaan", "Pari")

... aka Eternal Soulmate (India: English title: literal title) ... aka Oh, My Love (International: English title: literal title)

Apne (2007) (performer: "Ankh Vich Chehra Pyar Da", "Ankh Vich Chehra Pyar Da" (DJ Akbar Mix))

... aka Ours (India: English title: literal title)

Shakalaka Boom Boom (2007) (performer: "Saathiya", "Tera Sona Sona Roop", "Medley" (Remix))

Traffic Signal (2007) (performer: "Na Jis Din Teri Meri (fast)")

Mr. Hot Mr. Kool (2007) (performer: "Mister Hot, Mister Kool")

Bhupathi (2007) (performer: "Abhi Abhi")

... aka Guru Bhai (India: Hindi title: dubbed version)

Khosla Ka Ghosla! (2006) (performer: "Din din gin gin", "Iss se pyar karoon")

... aka Khosla's Nest (UK: subtitle)

Pokiri (2006) (performer: "Jagadame")

36 China Town (2006) (performer: "Jab Kahi", "Jab Kahi" (Akbar Sami), "Jab Kahi" (DJ Suketu))

Aksar (2006) (performer: "Jab Jayenge")

... aka Often (India: English title: literal title)

Tom, Dick, and Harry (2006) (performer: "O Mitra Re", "O Mitra Re" (Akbar Sami))

Vaah! Life Ho Toh Aisi! (2005) (performer: "Koi Aap Jaisa Mil Jaye")

Ek Khiladi Ek Haseena (2005) (performer: "Ishq Hai Jhootha")

Bachke Rehna Re Baba (2005) (performer: "Tera husn")

... aka Beware (India: English title: informal title)

"Kaisa Yeh Pyaar Hai" (2005) TV series (performer: "Andekhi Anjaani", "Jo Tum Nahi Paas", "Socha Tha Kya Aur Kya Humne Paaya Hai")

Self

Ankahee (2006) (uncredited) .... Himself (singing "Tumse Yun Milenge")

References

Radio FM

Kunal Ganjawal-Official Artist Page on Like.com

">Kunal Ganjawala launches Rajashri's Pop Album "Boondein"

"The Hindu" (February 4, 2009)

List of Kunal Ganjawala's songs

SaReGaMaPa - Live Performance">Kunal at SaReGaMaPa - Live Performance

External links

Kunal Ganjawal's Profile at Pipl.com

sachin kaminey

Category:Year of birth missing (living people) Category:Living people Category:Indian film singers Category:Bollywood playback singers Category:Sa Re Ga Ma Pa participants Category:People from Mumbai

Name	Kumar Sanu
Background	solo_singer
Alias	Kedarnath Bhattacharya
Born	September 23, 1957 Kolkata, India
Instrument	Tabla
Genre	Playback singing
Occupation	Singer,Actor,Music Director,Film Producer
Years active	1984–present

Kumar Sanu (alias Kedarnath Bhattacharya (), born in Kolkata, is a leading Indian playback singer of Bollywood. He won the Filmfare Best Male Playback Award for five consecutive years. The Government of India honoured him with the Padma Shri in 2009.

Early life

Kumar Sanu's father Pashupati Bhattacharya was a vocalist and composer. He trained Sanu as a singer and tabla player. After getting a degree in commerce from Calcutta University, Sanu began performing publicly in 1979, singing at shows and restaurants around Calcutta. He modeled his singing style after Bollywood singer Kishore Kumar. Later he developed his own singing style.

Career

In 1987, music director and singer Jagjit Singh offered Sanu the chance to sing in the Hindi film Aandhiyan. Sanu then relocated to Mumbai, where Kalyanji-Anandji gave him chance to sing in the film Jaadugar. Kalyanji-Anandji suggested that he change his name from Kedar Nath Bhattacharya to Kumar Sanu.

Sanu started off singing Jagjit Singh's film songs, and went on to work with composers including Naushad, Ravindra Jain, Hridayanath Mangeshkar, Pt.R K Razdan, Kalyanji Anandji, and Usha Khanna.

For the 1990 film Aashiqui, music directors Nadeem-Shravan got Sanu to sing all but one of the songs which included Sanson ki zaroorat hai jaise, Tu meri zindagi hain, Nazar ke saamne, Jaane jigar jaaneman, Ab Tere Bin Jee Lenge Hum and Dheere, dheere se meri zindagi mein aana. He won the first of his record five consecutive Filmfare awards as Best Male Playback Singer. His next Filmfare Awards came for songs in the movies Saajan (1991), Deewana (1992), Baazigar (1993), and (1994).

Sanu often collaborated with Nadeem-Shravan. Some of their collaborations include songs in movies like Aashiqi(1990), Dil Hai Ki Manta Nahin (1991),Sadak (1991), Saajan (1991), Deewana (1992), Dil Ka Kya Qusoor(1992),Kal Ki Awaz (1992), Shreeman Aashique (1993), Salami (1993), Damini: Lightning (1993), Dil Wale (1994), Agni Sakshi (1996) Raja Hindustani (1996), Jeet (1996) Pardes (1997), among others.

Sanu is often credited with having one of the leading voices among playback singers in India. In a career spanning two decades he has sung with numerous successful composers to name R.D. Burman, Anand-Milind, Anu Malik, Jatin-Lalit, Ismail Darbar, Kalyanji Anandji. Sanu has also worked with A. R. Rahman in Milgayee Milgayee from Kabhi Na Kabhi.

He has also turned his trade at making music for Indian films and also produced the Bollywood film, Utthaan.

Sanu was in the panel of judges on Sony TV for Waar Parriwar, a reality show based on the bringing together of a singing gharana (family of singers) and on Zee Bangla TV in a music reality show called Sa Re Ga Ma Pa - Vishwa Sera.

Hungama released a new single Lamhaa Ho Tum on Valentine's Day 2010 by Kumar Sanu, composed by Saikat Shankar and the song is written by Abhishek Brothers.

Awards

2009: Padma Shri: India's 4th highest civilian honour given by Government of India.

Filmfare

;Filmfare Best Male Playback Award

1990; Ab tere bin jeelenge hum - Aashiqui

1991: Mera Dil Bhi Kitna Pagal Hai - Saajan

1992: Sochenge Tumhe Pyaar - Deewana

1993: Yeh Kaali Kaali Aankhen - Baazigar

1994: Ek Ladki Ko Dekha -

Star Screen Award

;Star Screen Award for Best Male Playback

1994: Ek Ladki Ko Dekha - - Star Screen Award

Politics

He joined Bharatiya Janata party in 2004 in a ceremony headed by (party) president Venkiah Naidu.

References

External links

Category:Living people Category:Bengali musicians Category:Bengali people Category:Bollywood playback singers Category:Indian film singers Category:Indian male singers Category:People from Kolkata Category:Recipients of the Padma Shri Category:University of Calcutta alumni

Name	Asha Bhosle
Background	solo_singer
Birth name	Asha Mangeshkar
Born	September 08, 1933Sangli, Bombay Presidency, British India
Genre	Pop, folk, Indian classical music
Occupation	Singer, playback singer
Years active	1943–present

Asha Bhosle () (born September 8, 1933) is an Indian singer. She is one of the best-known and most highly regarded Hindi playback singers in India, although she has a much wider repertoire. Her career started in 1943 and has spanned over six decades. She has done playback singing for over 1000 Bollywood movies, and among other activities she has recorded many private albums and has participated in numerous concerts in India and abroad. Bhosle is the sister of playback singer Lata Mangeshkar.

Renowned for her voice range and often credited for her versatility, Bhosle's work includes film music, pop, ghazals, bhajans, traditional Indian Classical music, folk songs, qawwalis, Rabindra Sangeets and Nazrul Geetis. She has sung in over 18 languages including Assamese, Hindi, Urdu, Telugu, Marathi, Bengali, Gujarati, Punjabi, Tamil, English, Russian, Czech, Nepali, Malay and Malayalam.

In 2006, Asha Bhosle stated that she had sung over 12,000 songs, a figure repeated by several other sources. The World Records Academy, an international organization which certifies world records, recognized her as the "Most Recorded Artist" in the world, in September 2009.

Biography

Asha Bhosle was born in the small hamlet of Goar in Sangli, Bombay Presidency (now in Maharashtra), into the musical family of Master Deenanath Mangeshkar. Her father was a theater actor and classical singer. When she was nine years old, her father died. The family moved from Pune to Kolhapur and then to Mumbai. She and her elder sister Lata Mangeshkar began singing and acting in films to support their family. She sang her first film song Chala Chala Nav Bala for the Marathi movie Majha Bal (1943). The music for the film was composed by Datta Dawjekar. She made her Hindi film debut when she sang the song Saawan aaya for Hansraj Behl's Chunariya (1948). Her first solo Hindi film song was for the movie Raat Ki Raani (1949).

At the age of 16, she eloped with 31-year-old Ganpatrao Bhosle, marrying him against her family's wishes. Ganpatrao was sister Lata's personal secretary. The marriage failed miserably. Her husband and in-laws mistreated her. After a few years of marriage, Bhosle was turned out (around 1960) by a suspicious Ganpatrao and she went to her maternal home with two children and pregnant with her third child, Anand. She continued to sing in films to earn money.

At that time, prominent playback singers like Geeta Dutt, Shamshad Begum and Lata Mangeshkar (her sister) monopolized the singing for the "heroine" roles and the big films, whilst Asha Bhosle used to get the assignments they did not take: singing for the bad girls and vamps, or songs in the second-grade movies. In the 1950s, she sang more songs than most other playback singers in Bollywood (not counting Lata), yet most of these were in low budget B or C-grade films. Her earliest songs were composed by A R Qureshi, Sajjad Hussain and Ghulam Mohammed, most of which failed to do well. Some of the most popular Asha Bhosle-Helen numbers are Piya Tu Ab To Aaja (Caravan), O Haseena Zulfon Wali (Teesri Manzil), and Yeh Mera Dil (Don).

By the 1980s, Asha Bhosle had been stereotyped as a "cabaret singer" and a "pop crooner". In Rekha-starrer Umrao Jaan, she proved her versatility by singing ghazals like Dil cheez kya hai, In aankhon ki masti ke, Ye kya jagah hai doston and Justju jiski thi. The music director Khayyam, had lowered her pitch by half a note. Asha herself was surprised that she could sing so differently. The ghazals won her the first National Award of her career. A few years later, she won another National Award for the song Mera Kuchh Saamaan from Ijaazat (1987).

In 1995, a 62-year-old Asha Bhosle did playback for young actress Urmila Matondkar in the movie Rangeela. The soundtrack featured songs like Tanha Tanha and Rangeela Re sung by her, and composed by music director A. R. Rahman, who went on to record many more songs with her.

As late as 2005, 72-year-old Asha Bhosle's numbers for the Tamil film Chandramukhi and the pop song Lucky Lips for Salman Khan-starrer were chartbusters. Some of the other popular Tamil songs sung by Bhosle are Oh! Butterfly, September Maadham and Vennila Vennila.

In October 2004, The Very Best of Asha Bhosle, The Queen of Bollywood, a compilation album of songs recorded by Bhosle for albums and Bollywood films that were released during 1966-2003, was released.

Partnership with music directors

;O.P. Nayyar

Music director O. P. Nayyar's association with Asha Bhosle is part of Bollywood lore. He was the composer who first gave Asha her own distinct identity. Many people have speculated about a romantic relationship between the two.

Nayyar first met Asha in 1952, at the music recording of Chham Chhama Chham. He first called her for a film called Mangu (1954), and gave her a big break in CID (1956). However, it was the success of Naya Daur (1957), that made the duo very popular. After 1959, she was emotionally and professionally involved with Nayyar.

The team of O.P. Nayyar and Asha Bhosle is best remembered for their breezy and sometimes sirenish songs. Some good examples of their sensuous numbers are Aaiye meherbaan picturised on Madhubala (Howrah Bridge, 1958) and Yeh hai reshmi zulfon ka andhera picturised on Mumtaz (Mere Sanam, 1965). They recorded songs for many hit movies like Naya Daur (1957), Tumsa Nahin Dekha (1957), Howrah Bridge (1958), Ek Musafir Ek Hasina (1962), Kashmir Ki Kali (1964), etc. Some of their most popular songs include Aao huzur tumko (Kismat), Jaaiye aap kahan (Mere Sanam) etc. O.P. Nayyar used the Asha Bhosle-Mohammad Rafi duo for his most popular duets. some of these songs include Ude jab jab zulfein teri (Naya Daur). Main pyaar ka rahi hoon (Ek Musafir Ek Haseena), Deewana Hua Baadal, Ishaaron hi isharon mein (Kashmir Ki Kali) etc.

Asha recorded her last song for O.P. Nayyar in the movie Pran Jaye Par Vachan Na Jaye (1974). The solo number Chain se got many awards, but it was not included in the movie.

They split on August 5, 1972. It is not clear what made them part their ways. On being asked the reason for their parting, O P Nayyar once said, "I know astrology very well. I knew that one day I had to part with her. Something also happened, that upset me, so I left her." She gives the credit for her first big break to B. R. Chopra, the producer of Naya Daur.

;Khayyam Another music director who recognized Bhosle's talent early was Khayyam. His partnership with Asha Bhosle dates back to his first movie Biwi (1948). Khayyam gave her some good assignments in the 1950s, including Dard and Phir Subah Hogi. But the team is chiefly remembered for the songs of Umrao Jaan.

;Ravi Music composer Ravi considered Asha one of his favorite singers. She sang for his first movie Vachan (1955). The melodious lullaby from the movie, Chandamama door ke became an overnight hit among young mothers in India. Ravi got her to sing bhajans for the movies Gharana, Grihasti, Kajal and Phool Aur Patthar, at a time when most of the composers remembered her only when they needed to record B-grade songs picturized on the vamps or the side-heroines. Ravi and Asha Bhosle recorded a variety of songs, including the popular funny duet with Kishore Kumar - C A T...Cat maane billi (Dilli Ka Thug). The bhajan Tora man darpan (Kajal) is considered one of Asha Bhosle's best songs.

They also recorded songs for many popular movies like Waqt, Chaudhvin Ka Chand, Gumrah, Bahu Beti, China Town, Aadmi Aur Insaan, Dhund, Humraaz, and Kajal with her. For Chaudhvin Ka Chand, Ravi wanted Geeta Dutt (the wife of producer Guru Dutt) to sing the songs. But when she backed out, Guru Dutt insisted that Asha Bhosle sing the songs. During this period, S D Burman used Asha Bhosle as his lead female voice. She and S D Burman gave many hit songs in movies such as Kaala Pani, Kaala Bazaar, Insaan Jaag Utha, Lajwanti, Sujata and Teen Deviyaan (1965). They recorded many songs together after 1962 as well. Most famous of these songs were Asha Bhosle's duets with Mohammed Rafi and Kishore Kumar. The song Ab ke baras in Bimal Roy's Bandini (1963) consolidated her position as a lead singer. The seductive song Raat Akeli Hai from Jewel Thief (1967), picturised on Tanuja, became very popular.

;Rahul Dev Burman (Pancham) Asha first met Rahul Dev Burman (a.k.a. "Pancham") when she was a mother of two and he was in 10th grade having dropped out to pursue music. Their partnership was first noticed in Teesri Manzil (1966). She went on to record a variety of songs with him - cabarets, rock, disco, ghazals, Indian classical music and many more.

In the 1970s, Asha Bhosle and Pancham's youthful, Western songs took Bollywood music by storm - the raunchy cabaret Piya tu ab to aaja (Caravan, 1971, picturized on Helen), the rebellious Dum Maro Dum ( Hare Rama Hare Krishna, 1971), the sexy Duniya mein (Apna Desh, 1972), the romantic Chura Liyaa Hai Tumne (Yaadon Ki Baaraat, 1973). Pancham also recorded many hit duets with Asha Bhosle and Kishore Kumar - Jaane jaan, dhoondhta phir raha (Jawani Diwani), Bhali bhali si ek soorat (Buddha Mil Gaya) etc.

In 1980s, Pancham and Asha Bhosle recorded subtle numbers for films like Ijaazat (1987)- Mera kuch saaman, Khaali haath shaam aayi hai, Katra Katra. They also recorded the popular duet O Maria (Saagar). Mera Kuchch saamaan, the R.D. Burman composition for Gulzar's Ijaazat won her the National Award for Best Singer.

Asha Bhosle used to call R D Burman "Bubs". She married him in 1980. Their partnership lasted until his death.

RD Burman made her sing some of the most legendary songs in Bengali language as well, namely Mohuyae Jomechhe Aaj mou go,Chokhe Chokhe kotha bolo Chokhhe naame brishti(Bengali version of Jaane Kya Baat hai), Baanshi sune ki ghore thaka jaye,Sondhya Belae tumi aami,Aaj Gungun gun gunje amar (Bengali version of Pyaar Deewana hota hai),etc.

;Ilaiyaraaja The prolific south Indian film composer Ilaiyaraaja began employing Asha Bhosle's vocals in the early 1980s, their earliest collaboration being for the film Moondram Pirai (1982) (or Sadma, its Hindi remake in 1983). Their association continued, mostly through the latter half of the 1980s and early 1990s. Some of their notable songs from this period include Shenbagamae (Enga Ooru Paattukkaaran, 1987, Tamil). In 2000, Asha sung Ilaiyaraaja's theme song for Kamal Haasan's political film Hey Ram. The song, Janmon Ki Jwala (or Aparna's Theme), was a duet with ghazal singer Hariharan.

;A. R. Rahman A. R. Rahman is given the credit for Asha Bhosle's 'comeback' with Rangeela (1994). Songs like Tanha Tanha and Rangeela Re were chartbusters. She and Rahman went on to record more hits like Mujhe Rang De (Thakshak), Radha Kaise Na Jale (Lagaan, duet with Udit Narayan), Kahin Aag Lage (Taal), O Bhanware (Daud, duet with K. J. Yesudas), Venilla Venilla (Iruvar,1999), Dhuan Dhuan (Meenaxi,2004). Naushad, later in his life, also admitted that he has been unfair to Asha Bhonsle. Asha has also worked with other noted Bollywood composers like Jatin Lalit, Bappi Lahiri, Kalyanji Anandji, Usha Khanna, Chitragupt, and Roshan.

Non-Bollywood music

Private albums

In a rare feat, noted lyricist, Gulzar, music director, R.D. Burman and Asha Bhosle, came together in 1987, to create a double album, titled, Dil Padosi Hai, which was released on September 8, 1987, Asha Bhosle's birthday. In 1995, Asha underwent the gatha bandan (thread-tying) ceremony with Hindustani classical music maestro Ali Akbar Khan to learn a classical repertoire held within the Maihar gharana (stylistic school of Indian classical music), as handed down to Khan by his father Allauddin Khan (the guru of Ravi Shankar). Later, Asha and Ustad Ali Akbar Khan recorded eleven fixed compositions (or bandishes) in California for Legacy, a private album that won them a Grammy Award nomination.

In 1990s, Asha experimented with the remixed R D Burman songs. She was criticized by many, including Khayyam for tampering with old melodies. Nevertheless, albums like Rahul And I became quite popular. In 1997, Asha did a private Indipop album Janam Samjha Karo with Leslie Lewis. The album was hugely popular and won her many awards including the 1997 MTV Award.

Asha had been once asked by the director B R Ishaara to compose music for one of his films, but she had politely declined. In 2002, she turned music composer with the album Aap Ki Asha, an eight-song music and video album. The lyrics were written by Majrooh Sultanpuri (his last lyrics) and the music was composed by Asha herself. The album was released by Sachin Tendulkar on May 21, 2001 at a lavish party in Mumbai. The album received mixed reviews.

Asha had spotted Pakistani singer Adnan Sami's talent when he was about 10 years old. At that time was performing in London, with R D Burman. It was she who had asked him to pursue his interests in music seriously. When Adnan grew up and became a professional musician, Asha sang the title duet with him for his best-selling album Kabhi to nazar milao. The two came together again in the album Barse Badal. The album comprises eight songs, based on Indian Classical music. She contributed the song Yun Na Thi to the recording Womad Talking Book Volume Four: An Introduction to Asia 1 on Womad Records.

Asha has sung ghazals for many albums like Meraj-E-Ghazal, Aabshar-E-Ghazal and Kashish. In 2005, Asha released a self-title album (Asha), a tribute to the four ghazal maestros - Mehdi Hassan, Ghulam Ali, Farida Khanum and Jagjit Singh. The album features eight of her favorite ghazals like Farida Khanum’s Aaj Jaane Ki Zid Na Karo, Ghulam Ali’s Chupke Chupke, Aawargi and Dil Mein Ek Lahar, Jagjit Singh’s Ahista Ahista and Mehdi Hassan’s Ranjish Hi Sahi, Rafta Rafta and Mujhe Tum Nazar Se. These classic ghazals were recreated with modern sounds by the musician Pandit Somesh Mathur. The album was aimed at the younger generation, who, according to Asha, are "turned off" by the traditional sounds of tabla and sarangi.

Numerous compilations of Asha's songs have been released as well. To commemorate her 60th birthday, in 1993 EMI India released three cassettes: Bala Main Bairagan Hoongi (devotional songs), The Golden Collection: Memorable Ghazals (non-film ghazals by composers such as Ghulam Ali, R D Burman and Nazar Hussain), and The Golden Collection: The Ever Versatile Asha Bhosle (44 popular film songs).

In 2006, she recorded an album Asha and Friends, singing duets, with film actors Sanjay Dutt and Urmila Matondkar and famous cricket player Brett Lee, with whom she sang, You're the One for Me (Haan Main Tumhara Hoon). All these songs composed by Shamir Tandon were shot on video by journalist turned director S Ramachandran.

Concerts and collaborations with foreign artists

In 1980s and 1990s, Asha went globe-trotting, staging concerts in Canada, Dubai, UK, U.S. and many other countries. In 1989, during a world tour, she performed in 13 US cities in 20 days. Immediately after this, she had an already sold-out concert scheduled in Stockholm, Sweden. Due to the stressful schedule, Asha suffered a massive attack of colitis, together with fever, cough and weakness. In Stockholm, a pre-concert crisis meeting was called, attended by Asha's son (and manager) Anand and the sponsors. It was decided that the orchestra will play many instrumental tracks, the accompanying singers like Suresh Wadkar will shoulder the load, and Asha will make a small appearance. But Asha rejected all such proposals, and sang at the concert with great difficulty, in a not-so-good voice. Her first set of six Bollywood songs did not receive any response from the audience, which consisted mostly of Indian and Pakistani expats. Before the start of the second set of songs, a fan in the crowd requested her to sing a Marathi song. Asha obliged and sang Naach-naachuni ati mi damale ("I'm very tired of this endless dancing"). When the song ended, the auditorium erupted with claps and the encores started. After the concert, Asha was in bed for a month, recuperating from overexertion. In October 2002, she did a concert with Sudesh Bhosle and others, in London, for "Help the Aged" to help raise funds for older people in India. In 2007 she toured the USA, Canada, and West Indies in a tour called "The Incredibles". In this tour, she was accompanied by singers Sonu Nigam, Kunal Ganjawala and Kailash Kher. This tour went on to hold more than 20 concerts and was originally scheduled for only 12.

In the mid-1980s, Asha sang with Boy George (Bow down mister) and Stephen Lauscombe. In 1997, she sang a love song with the boy band Code Red, at the age of 64. She also recorded the song The Way you Dream (One Giant Leap, ) with Michael Stipe that was used in the English movie, Bulletproof Monk. The song was also released on the self-titled album 1 Giant Leap for 2002.

In 1997, the British band Cornershop paid tribute to Asha with their song Brimful of Asha, an international hit which was later remixed by Fatboy Slim. In 2001, the CD single of Nelly Furtado's "I'm Like A Bird" included a "Nellie vs. Asha Remix" created by Digital Cutup Lounge.

In 2003, British opera pop singer Sarah Brightman sampled her song "Dil Cheez Kya Hai" on her album Harem. It was used as the intro for her song "You Take My Breath Away".

In 2005, American string quartet Kronos Quartet re-recorded the R D Burman compositions like Chura Liya, Piya Tu, Mera Kuchh Saaman among others and got Asha to sing them. Despite her age (she had crossed 70), she recorded three to four songs in a day, leaving the quartet members stupefied. On August 23, 2005, You've stolen my heart - Songs From R D Burman's Bollywood was released in US. The album was nominated for Grammy Awards 2006 in the category of "Best Contemporary World Music Album". Earlier, in 1990s, a friend had introduced David Harrington of Kronos Quartet to the song Aaj ki raat. Harrington was mesmerised, and the song ended up on the album Kronos Caravan.

Also in 2005, The Black Eyed Peas sampled her songs "Ae Naujawan Sab Kuchh Yahan" (Apradh, 1972) and "Yeh Mera Dil Pyaar Ka Diwana" (Don, 1978) in their hit single "Don't Phunk with My Heart". In late 2006, Asha collaborated with Australian test cricket star, Brett Lee. The single, You're the One for Me debuted at number 4 on the charts and reached a peak position of number 2.

In 2006 Asha Bhosle recorded one song for the soundtrack of Pakistani movie Mein Ek Din Laut Kay Aaaonga. singing the song Dil Key Taar Bajey with famous Pakistani pop singer Jawad Ahmed. The song was aired as the part of the film's promotional campaign and became very popular, featuring on top music charts.

Personal life

Asha's house is situated in Prabhukunj Apt on Peddar Road area of South Mumbai. She has three children and five grandchildren. The eldest of her three children is Hemant Bhosle (named after Hemant Kumar), spent most of his early years as a pilot and quit to have a brief career as a music director. Asha's daughter Varsha, who is younger than Hemant, worked as a columnist for The Sunday Observer and Rediff. The youngest child is Anand Bhosle, who has studied business and film direction. He manages Asha's career. Her grandson, Chaitanya (Chintu) Bhosle (Hemant's son) also ventured in the world of music, as a member of a successful boy band, "Band of Boys". Her sisters Lata and Usha Mangeshkar are playback singers. The other two siblings, sister Meena Mangeshkar and brother Hridayanath Mangeshkar are music directors.

Asha is an excellent cook and cooking is her favorite hobby. She often gets flooded with requests by Bollywood celebrities for kadai ghosht and biryani and has rarely turned down a request. In fact, her paya curry, Goan fish curry and dal are very popular with the Kapoor family of Bollywood. Once, when asked in a Times of India interview, what if her singing career had not taken off, she said "I would have become a cook. I'd have cooked in four houses and made money."

Asha is a successful restaurateur and runs restaurants in Dubai and Kuwait, called Asha's. Asha's offers traditional north-western Indian cuisine. It has a presence in the Wafi City development in Dubai, as well as three restaurants in Kuwait, at The Avenues Mall, the Marina Mall and a brand new third outlet at the Spoons Complex. Other restaurants can be found in Abu Dhabi's Khaldiya Mall, Doha's Villagio and Bahrain's City Center Mall, with future outposts planned for Dubai's Mall of the Emirates and Cairo, Egypt. Asha Bhosle has a 20% stake in the business. Asha is not involved in day-to-day running of the restaurant which is looked after by the Wafi Group. She takes care of the kitchen and the décor. She personally trained the chefs for almost six months. According to a December 2004 report in the Menu Magazine, Russell Scott, a former head of Harry Ramsden's (the fish and chips chain), secured the UK rights to the Asha's brand and planned to open up to 40 restaurants over the next five years. As part of her chain of restaurants, Asha's, Ashatai has recently opened a new restaurant in Birmingham, UK.

Asha's fashion statement is white sarees with sparkling embroidery, pearls around her neck and diamonds. Harrington of Kronos Quartet said "The first time I met Ashaji she was dressed in the most beautiful sari with diamonds and looked very regal. Then I looked down and saw that she was wearing tennis shoes! I thought I love this woman."

Asha is a good mimicry artist as well. At a concert at World Trade Center in Dubai on April 22, 2004, she mimicked the song Kabhi To Nazar Milaao in the voices of Noor Jehan, Lata Mangeshkar and Ghulam Ali.

Nowadays, apart from singing and her restaurant, Asha is also working on her autobiography.

Rivalry with Lata Mangeshkar

Asha's sibling rivalry with her sister Lata Mangeshkar is often talked about, in spite of their insistence that these are just tales.

Lata considered Asha's act of eloping with her lover as irresponsible, leaving her alone to sing and earn for the family. This led to tensions among them. Asha herself accepted in an interview Asha said about the movie — "To have two women in long plaits, take a couple of incidents and exaggerate them into a 3-hour film is such a waste of time." She won her first two awards in 1967 and 1968, when Lata Mangeshkar still used to accept the award (Mangeshkar asked not to be considered for the award nominations after 1969 to promote new talent). After receiving the award in 1979, Bhosle emulated her elder sister and requested that her name not be considered for the nominations hereafter. Despite this, Bhosle is the most frequent winner of this award to date, tying with Alka Yagnik. She was later given a Special Award for Rangeela in 1996, and the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 2001. Following is the list of her Filmfare Awards:

Filmfare Best Female Playback Award:

1968: "Garibon ki Suno" (Dus Lakh, 1966)

1969: "Parde Mein Rehne Do" (Shikar, 1968)

1972: "Piya Tu Ab To Aaja" (Caravan, 1971)

1973: "Dum Maro Dum" (Hare Rama Hare Krishna, 1972)

1974: "Hone Lagi Hain Raat" (Naina, 1973)

1975: "Chain Se Humko Kabhi" (Pran Jaye Par Vachan Na Jaye, 1974)

1979: "Yeh Mera Dil" (Don, 1978)

Other Awards:

1996 - Special Award (Rangeela, 1995)

2001 - Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award

;National Film Awards Asha has won the National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer twice:

1981: Dil Cheez Kya Hai (Umrao Jaan)

1986: Mera Kuch Samaan (Ijaazat)

;Other awards Asha has won numerous other awards, some of which include: 1987: Nightingale Of Asia Award (from the Indo–Pak Association, UK).

1999: Lata Mangeshkar Award (Government of Maharashtra)

2000: Singer of the Millennium (Dubai).

2000: Zee Gold Bollywood Award (for Mujhe Rang De from Thakshak).

2001: MTV Award (for Kambakht Ishq).

2002: BBC Lifetime Achievement Award (presented by the UK Prime Minister Tony Blair).

2002: Zee Cine Award for Best Playback Singer - Female (for Radha Kaise Na Jale from Lagaan).

2002: Zee Cine Special Award for Hall of Fame.

2002: Screen Videocon Award (for Radha Kaise Na Jale from Lagaan).

2002: Sansui Movie Award (for Radha Kaise Na Jale from Lagaan).

2003: Swaralaya Yesudas Award for outstanding contributions to Indian music. 2005: MTV Immies, Best Female Pop Act for Aaj Jaane Ki Zid Na Karo. 2005: Most Stylish People in Music.

;Honours and recognitions

In 1997, Asha became the first Indian singer to be nominated for the Grammy Award, for Legacy, an album with Ustad Ali Akbar Khan.

She has received seventeen Maharashtra State Awards.

She received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2000 for her outstanding contribution to Indian cinema.

She holds honorary doctorates from the University of Amravati and University of Jalgaon in Literature.

She has received The Freddie Mercury Award for Outstanding Achievement in Arts.

The Birmingham Film Festival paid her a special tribute in November 2002.

She was honoured with the Padma Vibhushan by the Government of India.

She was among top 20 music icons of the past 50 years by CNN.

Footnotes and references

Further reading

External links

Asha Bhosle: The Voice Of Bollywood And More - audio report by NPR

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