Kumar Sanu, one of the most iconic playback singers of Bollywood, is known for his melodious voice and extraordinary singing talent. He dominated the Indian music scene in the 1990s, delivering numerous chart-topping hits and leaving a lasting impact on the industry. His soulful renditions have made him a favorite among music lovers across generations. In this blog, we explore the life, career, and legacy of Kumar Sanu, highlighting his contribution to Indian music.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Kumar Sanu was born as Kedarnath Bhattacharya on September 23, 1957, in Kolkata, West Bengal. His father, Pashupati Bhattacharya, was a classical singer and composer, which influenced Kumar Sanu’s passion for music. He trained in classical music under his father’s guidance and began his career singing at local shows and small events.
Sanu’s entry into Bollywood came in the late 1980s, but his real breakthrough happened in 1990 when he sang “Ab Tere Bin” for the movie Aashiqui. This song skyrocketed him to fame and established him as a leading playback singer.
Rise to Stardom and Achievements
Kumar Sanu’s collaboration with music composers like Nadeem-Shravan, Jatin-Lalit, and Anu Malik led to numerous blockbuster hits. His ability to render romantic songs with a smooth and soothing voice made him the go-to singer for most romantic movies in the 90s.
- Record-breaking Awards: Kumar Sanu holds a unique record for winning the Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer for five consecutive years, from 1991 to 1995.
- Prolific Career: He has sung over 20,000 songs in various languages, including Hindi, Bengali, and Tamil.
- Padma Shri: In 2009, he was honored with the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, for his contribution to Indian music.
Popular Songs by Kumar Sanu
Kumar Sanu’s career is filled with memorable hits that defined Bollywood’s music in the 1990s. Here is a list of some of his most iconic songs:
| Song | Film | Music Director |
|---|---|---|
| Ab Tere Bin | Aashiqui (1990) | Nadeem-Shravan |
| Tujhe Dekha To | Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995) | Jatin-Lalit |
| Dheere Dheere Se | Aashiqui (1990) | Nadeem-Shravan |
| Ek Ladki Ko Dekha | 1942: A Love Story (1994) | R.D. Burman |
| Mera Dil Bhi Kitna Pagal Hai | Saajan (1991) | Nadeem-Shravan |
| Ye Kaali Kaali Aankhen | Baazigar (1993) | Anu Malik |
| Do Dil Mil Rahe Hain | Pardes (1997) | Nadeem-Shravan |
Singing Style and Influence
Kumar Sanu is known for his signature style of romantic ballads, characterized by smooth vocals and emotional depth. His voice, often described as soothing and full of emotion, was perfect for the melodious tracks of the 90s, which became the golden era of Bollywood music. His songs still resonate with listeners today, reminding them of simpler times filled with timeless melodies.
Key Contributions to Indian Music:
- Versatility: While Kumar Sanu is best known for romantic songs, he has also excelled in singing sad, upbeat, and semi-classical numbers, showcasing his versatility.
- Consistency: Sanu’s consistent output of hits in the 90s made him one of the most in-demand playback singers during that decade.
- Long-lasting Legacy: His songs remain popular today, with new generations discovering and enjoying his evergreen melodies through streaming platforms and television.
FAQs About Kumar Sanu
Q: What are some of Kumar Sanu’s most famous songs?
A: Some of his most iconic songs include “Ab Tere Bin,” “Tujhe Dekha To,” “Dheere Dheere Se,” “Ek Ladki Ko Dekha,” and “Mera Dil Bhi Kitna Pagal Hai.”
Q: How many Filmfare Awards has Kumar Sanu won?
A: Kumar Sanu has won the Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer five consecutive times from 1991 to 1995, a record in Bollywood.
Q: In which languages has Kumar Sanu sung songs?
A: Kumar Sanu has sung in multiple languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Punjabi, and Marathi.
Q: How did Kumar Sanu get his big break in Bollywood?
A: Kumar Sanu’s big break came with the song “Ab Tere Bin” from the 1990 movie Aashiqui. The film’s soundtrack became a massive hit, catapulting him to fame.
Q: Has Kumar Sanu received any national honors?
A: Yes, Kumar Sanu was awarded the Padma Shri in 2009 for his contribution to Indian music.
Conclusion
Kumar Sanu’s contribution to Bollywood’s golden age of music is irreplaceable. His melodious voice, coupled with his unique ability to convey emotions through song, made him a favorite among music directors and audiences alike. He brought romance to life in the 1990s with his memorable ballads, and his songs continue to hold a special place in the hearts of millions. Kumar Sanu’s legacy as one of the most beloved playback singers of India is secured, and his music will remain timeless for generations to come.