“Shreya Ghoshal: Award-Winning Indian Singer, Unmatched Vocal Prowess, Versatile Voice Enchanting Audiences with Musical Excellence.”
Born : 12 March 1984 (age 39)
Place : Berhampore, Murshidabad, West Bengal, India
Alma mater : SIES College of Arts, Science & Commerce
Occupations : Singer , composer, song writer,
Years active :1998 –present
Works : Discography , filmography
Spouse : Shiladitya Mukhopadhyaya (m. 2015)
Children : 1
Musical career
Genres : Filmi , Indian ,pop, ghazals, bhajans, classical electronic
About
Shreya Ghoshal, born on March 12, 1984, stands as an iconic Indian singer renowned for her extraordinary vocal range and adaptability. Her versatility spans across various Indian and foreign languages, earning her widespread acclaim and a multitude of awards, including multiple National Film Awards, Filmfare Awards, and others across different Indian states.
Her musical journey began remarkably early, starting formal training in classical music at six and gaining attention at sixteen after winning the TV show Sa Re Ga Ma. Ghoshal made a memorable debut in Bollywood with Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s ‘Devdas’ in 2002, receiving prestigious awards for her playback singing.
Beyond playback singing, she’s been a judge on TV reality shows and appeared in music videos. Her contributions have been recognized internationally; she was honored in the United States by the state of Ohio and by selected members of the UK’s House of Commons in London. She’s also been a fixture on Forbes’ list of top Indian celebrities and was the first Indian singer to have a wax figure at Madame Tussauds Museum in Delhi.
Early life
Shreya Ghoshal, born on March 12, 1984, in Berhampore, Murshidabad, West Bengal, hails from a Bengali Brahmin family. Growing up in Rawatbhata near Kota, Rajasthan, she showed an early interest in music, starting lessons at just four years old. Her father, Bishwajit Ghoshal, an electrical engineer at the Nuclear Power Corporation of India, and her mother, Sarmistha Ghoshal, a literature post-graduate, supported her musical journey.
Shreya Ghoshal’s education spanned schools in Rawatbhata and Mumbai, where she eventually pursued arts with English as her major at SIES College. Under the guidance of renowned tutors like Late Kalyanji Bhai and Late Mukta Bhide, she honed her classical music skills and made her mark by winning the Sa Re Ga Ma music reality show at the age of sixteen.
Career
Ghoshal’s first recording was “Ganraj Rangi Nachato” which is a cover version of a Marathi song originally sung by Lata Mangeshkar. Her first studio album was Bendhechhi Beena, which was released on 1st January 1998.
2002–2004: Playback singing debut and breakthrough
Shreya Ghoshal rose to fame after captivating director Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s attention on Sa Re Ga Ma’s 75th children’s special.
Recognizing her voice’s innocence, Bhansali cast her as the voice of Paro in Devdas (2002), praising her suitability for the role. At just sixteen, she recorded five tracks for the film, including “Bairi Piya,” managing her studies alongside studio sessions. Her rendition soared to the top of charts, earning her Filmfare and National Film Awards, establishing her as a promising talent in playback singing.
2005–2007: Established singer
Shreya Ghoshal’s musical journey blossomed further with remarkable contributions in various films. Notably, her rendition of “Dheere Jalna” in ‘Paheli,’ alongside Sonu Nigam, earned her a second National Film Award. Her versatility shone in tracks like “Kangna Re,” “Minnat Kare,” “Piyu Bole,” and “Naam Adaa Likhna” across movies like ‘Parineeta’ and ‘Yahaan,’ garnering critical acclaim and several Filmfare nominations.
In 2006, her collaboration with Ravindra Jain in ‘Vivah’ showcased her talent in melodies like “Mujhe Haq Hai” and “Milan Abhi Aadha Adhura Hai.” Ghoshal’s emotive rendition in “O Saathi Re” and “Pal Pal” earned her accolades and Filmfare nominations. Her prowess continued with hits like “Pyaar Ki Ek Kahani” in ‘Krrish,’ recognized for its depth and quality.
2007 marked her exceptional performance in songs like “Chale Aao Saiyan” for ‘Khoya Khoya Chand’ and the vibrant “Barso Re” in ‘Guru,’ earning her a third Filmfare Award. Notably, her contributions in ‘Jab We Met’ and ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa’ showcased her versatility, winning her a third National Film Award for “Yeh Ishq Haaye” and praise for the classical “Mere Dholna.” Her collaborations with composers like Ilaiyaraaja and Vishal–Shekhar continued to impress, cementing her status as a prominent playback singer.
2008–2014: Further success
Shreya Ghoshal’s musical repertoire expanded with hits like “Teri Ore” from ‘Singh Is Kinng’ (2008), winning her a fourth Filmfare Award.
The year 2008 marked her fourth National Award for songs in the Bengali film ‘Antaheen’ and Marathi film ‘Jogwa.’ Notably, her rendition of “Pherari Mon” in ‘Antaheen’ and “Jeev Rangla” in ‘Jogwa’ showcased her remarkable talent and vocal prowess.
In 2012, she delivered chart-topping tracks like “Chikni Chameli” from ‘Agneepath’ and “Saans” from ‘Jab Tak Hai Jaan.’ Despite initial discomfort with the lyrics of “Chikni Chameli,” her performance garnered acclaim, earning her Filmfare nominations.
Her collaborations extended across movies like ‘Rowdy Rathore,’ ‘Student of the Year,’ and ‘Raanjhanaa,’ showcasing her adaptability and proficiency across diverse musical genres.
In 2013, her soulful rendition in songs like “Naino Mein Sapna” and “Sunn Raha Hai” from ‘Aashiqui 2’ showcased her vocal prowess, earning praise and critical acclaim. Additionally, her contributions in films like ‘Raanjhanaa,’ ‘Krrish 3,’ and ‘Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela’ garnered positive to mixed reviews.
Shreya Ghoshal continued her streak of successful tracks in 2014 with songs like “Manwa Laage” from ‘Happy New Year’ and tracks in ‘PK,’ showcasing her ability to deliver chart-topping hits consistently.
2015–2019: Career progression
In 2015, Shreya Ghoshal impressed with “Pookkalae Sattru Oyivedungal” in Tamil film ‘I,’ praised for its Hindustani influence.
The next year saw Ghoshal’s versatility in tracks like “Tere Bin” in ‘Wazir,’ “Tum Bin Jiya” in ‘Sanam Re,’ and “Rang Rang Rangoli” in Marathi film ‘Sairat.’ Her rendition in “Aashiq Surrender Hua” for ‘Badrinath Ki Dulhania’ garnered praise. Contributions in ‘Naam Shabana,’ ‘Toilet: Ek Prem Katha,’ and ‘Half Girlfriend’ showcased her genre-spanning talent, earning acclaim and nominations.
In 2017, “Thodi Der” from ‘Half Girlfriend’ and “Rozana” from ‘Naam Shabana’ received praise and Filmfare nominations. Her work in regional cinema and the Mixtape web series showcased her diversity.
Starting 2018 with hits like ‘Bhaagamathie,’ ‘Tholi Prema,’ and ‘Padmaavat,’ her “Ghoomar” rendition earned a Filmfare Award. Contributions to ‘Baaghi 2’ and ‘Dhadak’ continued her impactful journey.
In 2019, her classical prowess in ‘Kalank’ tracks earned acclaim. Songs in ‘Kabir Singh’ and ‘Dabangg 3’ highlighted her versatile style. Collaborating in ‘The Family Man’ title track showcased her musical range and talent.
2020–present: Independent work and further success
In the early 2020s, Shreya Ghoshal showcased her versatility through independent singles like “Nah Woh Main,” featuring her as a songwriter and composer. She ventured into classical renditions with Pandit Birju Maharaj’s poems in “Mann Bheetar” and released “Apni Maati” as an Independence Day tribute.
Moving into 2021, Ghoshal received acclaim for “Chal Wahin Chalein” from ‘Saina’ and delivered chart-toppers like “Param Sundari” from ‘Mimi’ and “Zaalima Coca Cola” for ‘Bhuj: The Pride of India.’ Her tracks in ‘Atrangi Re’ gained popularity, earning her nominations and high viewership on digital platforms. In parallel, she released several independent singles showcasing her range and collaborated with renowned artists.
The following year, Ghoshal’s resonating vocals featured in diverse projects. Her rendition of “Jab Saiyaan” from ‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’ received critical acclaim and was highlighted as one of the best songs of the year.
Collaborations with A. R. Rahman across languages garnered appreciation, including her fifth National Film Award-winning rendition. Her songs in various regional soundtracks were well-received, and she continued to contribute to Bollywood and independent music.
Ghoshal’s impactful musical journey also extended to global concerts, charity events, and digital fundraisers. From her world tour with the Symphony Orchestra of India to virtual events aiding COVID-19 relief, her performances resonated across the globe.
The artist’s dedication and versatility reflected in her ongoing tour celebrating two decades in the industry, encompassing numerous countries and prestigious stages, including Expo 2020 in Dubai. Her musical contributions and live performances continued to captivate audiences across continents, marking a remarkable journey in the realm of music.
