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Harshdeep Kaur
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Harshdeep Kaur (born 16 December 1986) is an Indian playback singer known for her Bollywood Hindi, Punjabi, English and Sufi songs. She is popularly known as "Sufi Ki Sultana" because of her soulful Sufi renditions.[1] After winning titles in two reality shows, Kaur established herself as a lead singer in Bollywood soundtracks. Kaur was sixteen years old when she released her first Bollywood song, "Sajna Mai Haari".
Key Information
Kaur has recorded songs for film music in multiple Indian languages, including Hindi, Punjabi, Malayalam, Tamil and Urdu, and has established herself as a leading playback singer of Indian cinema. She has worked with leading music directors[2] (including A R Rahman, Pritam Chakraborty, Vishal–Shekhar, Salim–Sulaiman, Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy, Amit Trivedi, Shantanu Moitra, Tanishk Bagchi, Himesh Reshammiya, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Sohail Sen.[citation needed] She's one of the very few Indian singers to have sung for a Hollywood film. Her track R.I.P., composed by AR Rahman, was a part of Oscar-winning director Danny Boyle's film 127 Hours.[3] She has also sung a few songs for the Pakistani film and television industry.
Some of her popular songs include Katiya Karun from Rockstar; Dilbaro from Raazi; Heer from Jab Tak Hai Jaan; Ik Onkar from Rang De Basanti; Zaalima from Raees; Nachde Ne Saare from Baar Baar Dekho; Bari Barsi from Band Baaja Baaraat; Kabira from Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani; Jugni ji from Cocktail; and Twist Kamariya from Bareilly ki Barfi.[4]
In 2019, Kaur received the IIFA Award for Best Female Playback Singer award at the 20th IIFA Awards for the song "Dilbaro" from the film Raazi. She also won the Star Screen Award, Zee Cine Award for the same song Dilbaro.[5]
Early life
[edit]Kaur was born on 16 December 1986 to Savinder Singh Sohal in Delhi.[6] She is from a musical background. Her father, Savinder Singh Sohal, owns a factory of musical instruments. She attended Springdales School in New Delhi. Apart from studying, she started learning music at the age of six. She learned Indian classical music from Mr. Tejpal Singh, popularly known as the Singh Brothers, and Western classical music from George Pullinkala, Delhi Music Theatre. Later, at the age of twelve, to explore the world of music, she joined the Delhi School of Music to learn piano.
Career
[edit]Television
[edit]Kaur won the singing competition MTV’s Video Ga Ga in 2003.[7] In 2008 she won Junoon – Kuch Kar Dikhaane Ka. She competed from the Sufi Ki Sultan genre with Rahat Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan as her mentor.[8]
She sang the title song of TV series Bani – Ishq Da Kalma in 2013.[9] Kaur is the only singer who has appeared on all four seasons of Coke Studio (India) from 2011 to 2015.[10]
Harshdeep Kaur became a "Judge" on StarPlus singing reality show The Voice India. She was joined by Adnan Sami, Kanika Kapoor and Armaan Malik as the other coaches and by "Super Guru" A. R. Rahman.[11]
Personal life
[edit]Kaur married her childhood friend Mankeet Singh in a traditional Sikh wedding ceremony on 20 March 2015 in Mumbai.[12] The couple's first child, Hunar Singh was born on 2 March 2021.[13][14][15]
Television appearances
[edit]- Coke Studio (India) on MTV:
- As a judge on The Voice, a singing reality show on StarPlus in 2019. Her team won the reality show.
- The opening ceremony of IPL in 2017.
- Special performance at the Global Indian Music Academy Awards in 2016.
- MTV Unplugged: Aaj din Chadeya with Pritam
- Featured multiple times on The Kapil Sharma Show
Concerts and tours
[edit]| Year | Concerts and Tours | City(s) / Country(s) | Notes | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | A. R. Rahman Jai Ho Concert: The Journey Home World Tour | USA, Canada, UK, South Africa, & Singapore | [21] | |
| 2011 | Rockstar Concert | India, London | Film promotional Concert | [22][23] |
2013
- In April she headlined the Southbank Centre Music Festival in London, alongside Soul/Bollywood singer Ash King.[24]
- In August she headlined the Mosaic Festival held in Mississauga, Canada.[24]
- In September she performed at the London Mela in Gunnersbury Park.[25]
2014
- AAS Concert at Purana Qila with Attaullah Khan.[26]
- MTV Unplugged Concert with Shafqat Amanat Ali Khan
- Live in Concert with Pritam at Wembley Arena, London, Dubai & Singapore
- Infinite Love Concerts with AR Rahman in Singapore and Malaysia
2015
- Performed with her band at the Stardust Concert held at the Royal Festival Hall in London in September 2015
2016
- Performed at the Heart of Asia Conference held in Amritsar in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other Asian leaders in 2016
- Hazaaron Khwahishein Aisi with Shekhar Ravjiani at The Esplanade in Singapore in September 2016
2017
- First Indian singer to become a headliner at the Manchester International Festival in June 2017.[24]
- Headlined "Sounds Of Sufi" Concert at the Esplanade in Singapore in November 2017
- Leading performers of the AR Rahman Encore tour in India 2017
- Her Solo UK tour in March 2018 was a huge success and garnered a lot of appreciation from the music industry and her fans.
- She has performed with the Legendary Punjabi singer "Gurdas Mann" in 2015 & 2018 in New Delhi.
2018
- She was the leading performer on Pritam's First-ever North American Tour in April 2018.
- She opened for Bryan Adams' on his India tour on 12 October(Mumbai) and 14 October (Delhi) in 2018.[27]
- Performed for Ranveer Singh & Deepika Padukone's Wedding in Lake Como, Italy.
2019
- Headlining performer at the "Jashn-e-Rekhta" Festival held in Delhi.
- Headlined Konark Festival in Orissa
Discography
[edit]Film songs
[edit]| Year | Film(s) | No. | Song(s) | Co-artist(s) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | Aapko Pehle Bhi Kahin Dekha Hai | 1 | "Sajna Main Haari" | Nikhil–Vinay | |
| Oops! | 2 | "Alag Alag" | Ravi Pawar | ||
| 3 | "Uljal Baat Hai Duniya Ki" | ||||
| 2005 | Karam | 4 | "Le Jaa" | Vishal Dadlani | |
| 2006 | Rang De Basanti | 5 | "Ik Onkar" | A. R. Rahman | |
| Taxi No. 9211 | 6 | "Udne Do" | Vishal–Shekhar | ||
| 2007 | 1971 | 7 | "Saajana" | Akash Sagar | |
| 8 | "Saajana" (Remix) | ||||
| Red: The Dark Side | 9 | "Dil Ne Ye Na Jaana" | Himesh Reshammiya | ||
| 2008 | Halla Bol | 10 | "Is Pal Ki Soch" | ||
| Karzzzz | 11 | "Lut Jaaon Lut Jaaon" | Himesh Reshammiya | ||
| 2010 | Kajraare | 12 | "Aafreen" | ||
| 13 | "Woh Lamha Phir Se Jeena Hai" | ||||
| 14 | "Woh Lamha Phir Se Jeena Hai" (Party Mix) | ||||
| Guzaarish | 15 | "Chaand Ki Katori" | |||
| Band Baaja Baaraat | 16 | "Baari Barsi" | Labh Janjua, Salim Merchant | ||
| Khatta Meetha | 17 | "Sajde Kiye" (Film Version) | Roopkumar Rathod | ||
| 18 | "Sajde Kiye" (Remix) | KK, Suzanne D'Mello | |||
| 2011 | Desi Boyz | 19 | "Jhak Maar Ke" | Neeraj Shridhar | |
| 20 | "Jhak Maar Ke" (Remix) | ||||
| Rockstar | 21 | "Katiya Karoon" | A.R. Rahman | ||
| 2012 | Cinema Company | 22 | "Sonee Lagdee" | Alphons Joseph, Manjari | Malayalam film |
| Cocktail | 23 | "Alif Allah (Jugni)" | Arif Lohar | ||
| Jab Tak Hai Jaan | 24 | "Heer" | A.R. Rahman | ||
| Khiladi 786 | 25 | "Tu Hoor Pari" | Javed Ali, Shreya Ghoshal, Chandrakala Singh | ||
| Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana | 26 | "Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana" | Shahid Mallya | ||
| 27 | "Luni Hasi" (Female) | ||||
| 2013 | Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani | 28 | "Kabira" (Encore) | Arijit Singh | |
| Phata Poster Nikhla Hero | 29 | "Mere Bina Tu" (Film Version) | Rahat Fateh Ali Khan | ||
| 2014 | Ennathan Pesuvatho | 30 | "Nenje Nenje Nee" | Tamil film | |
| 31 | "Pennaga Pirathu" | Dhilip Varman | |||
| Dil Vil Pyaar Vyaar | 32 | "Saanu Te Aisa Mahi" | Sunidhi Chauhan | Punjabi film | |
| Punjab 1984 | 33 | "Rabb Meri Umar" (Lori) | |||
| Pora Pove | 34 | "Nee Adugu Venaka" | Telugu film | ||
| Bang Bang! | 35 | "Uff" | Benny Dayal | ||
| 2015 | Bin Roye | 36 | "Ballay Ballay" | Shiraz Uppal | Urdu film |
| Prem Ratan Dhan Payo | 37 | "Jalte Diye" | Anweshaa, Shabab Sabri, Vinit Singh | ||
| 2016 | Saadey CM Saab | 38 | "Mere Vich Teri" | Harbhajan Mann | Punjabi film |
| 31st October | 39 | "Rabb De Bande" | |||
| Sultan | 40 | "Sachi Muchi" | Mohit Chauhan | ||
| Happy Bhag Jayegi | 41 | "Happy Oye" | Shahid Mallya | ||
| Baar Baar Dekho | 42 | "Nachde Ne Saare" | Jasleen Royal, Siddharth Mahadevan | ||
| Parched | 43 | "Mai Ri Mai" | Neeti Mohan | ||
| Befikre | 44 | "Khulke Dulke" | Gippy Grewal | ||
| 2017 | Raees | 45 | "Zaalima" | Arijit Singh | |
| Irada | 46 | "Mahi" | Shabab Sabri | ||
| Flat 211 | 47 | "Tere Lams Ne" (Unplugged) | |||
| Bareilly Ki Barfi | 48 | "Twist Kamariya" | Yasser Desai, Altamash Faridi | ||
| 2018 | Hichki | 49 | "Oye Hichki" | ||
| 50 | "Soul of Hichki" | ||||
| Raazi | 51 | "Dilbaro" | Vibha Saraf, Shankar Mahadevan | ||
| Lashtam Pashtam | 52 | "Rab Rakha" | Sukhwinder Singh | ||
| Manmarziyaan | 53 | "Grey Walaa Shade" | Jazim Sharma | ||
| 54 | "Chonch Ladhiyaan" | ||||
| 55 | "Jaisi Teri Marzi" | Bhanu Pratap Singh | |||
| Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi | 56 | "Happy Bhag Jayegi" | Daler Mehndi, Suvarna Tiwari | ||
| 2019 | Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga | 57 | "Gud Naal Ishq Mitha" | Navraj Hans | Composed by Rochak Kohli |
| Parey Hut Love | 58 | "Ik Pal" | Hadiqa Kiani, Suhas Sawant | Urdu film | |
| 59 | "Behka Na" | Ali Tariq | |||
| 2020 | Happy Hardy and Heer | 60 | "Ishqbaaziyaan" | Asees Kaur, Alamgir Khan, Jubin Nautiyal | |
| 61 | "Le Jaana" | Asees Kaur, Himesh Reshammiya, Navraj Hans | |||
| Bhangra Paa Le | 62 | "Sacchiyaan" | Amit Mishra | ||
| Panga | 63 | "Le Panga" | Divya Kumar, Siddharth Mahadevan | ||
| Tanhaji | 64 | "Tinak Tinak" | |||
| Jawaani Jaaneman | 65 | "Mere Baabula" (Madhaniyaa) | Akhil Sachdeva | ||
| 2022 | Bal Naren | 66 | "Ram Ji Aayenge" | Manish S | |
| 2025 | Love in Vietnam | 67 | "Burrah Burrah" | Meet Bros, Malkit Singh, Ninja |
Other songs
[edit]| Year | No. | Album(s) / TV Show(s) | Song | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 1 | Channel Divya | "Barse Channel Divya" (Theme Song 1) | |
| 2013 | 2 | Bani – Ishq Da Kalma | "Saaiyaan" | TV show |
| 3 | Mohabat Subh Ka Sitara Hai | "Ye Jo Subha Ka Ik Sitara Hai" | Pakistani TV Show | |
| 2015 | 4 | N/a | "Jutti Kasuri" | Punjabi Folk (Single) |
| 5 | Save the Girl Child | "Nanak di Soch" | Single | |
| 2016 | 6 | N/a | "Saaun Da Mahina" | Tribute to Jagjit Singh |
| 7 | Shabad | "Lakh Khushiyaan" | ||
| 8 | "Nanak Naam Mile" | |||
| 9 | Strumm Sufi Album | "Wali Allah" | ||
| 10 | Educate the Girl Child Anthem | "School ki Ghanti" | For Nestle | |
| 11 | 100 Days | "Joban Madhuban" | TV show | |
| 12 | Ek Shringaar-Swabhiman | "Ek Shringaar Swabhimaan" | ||
| 13 | MTV Unplugged | "Aaj Din Chadeya" | with Pritam | |
| 14 | 350th Birth Anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh | "Guru Gobind Singh Ji" | ||
| 2017 | 15 | "Waho Waho Gobind Singh" | ||
| 16 | Social Song | "Hawa Badlo Anthem" | Campaign against Air Pollution | |
| 17 | Collaboration | "Lovers Quest Medley 5" | ||
| 18 | Single | "Dil Di Reejh" | Punjabi Single | |
| 19 | T Series Mixtapes | "Ehna Akhiyaan / Yaar Mangeya Si" | ||
| 20 | Simran for meditation | "Satnam Waheguru Ji" | Guru Nanak Jayanti Special | |
| 2018 | 21 | T Series Mixtapes Punjabi | "Chhalla / Ni Mai Kamli" | |
| 22 | Single | "Chamba Kitni Duur" | Himachali Folk Song (Single) | |
| 23 | Song for Virushka | "Peer Vi Tu" | Wedding Song of Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma | |
| 24 | Shabad | "Satguru Nanak Aaye Ne" | 550 years of Guru Nanak Jayanti Special | |
| 2020 | 25 | Prayer | "Taati Vaao Na Lagai" | |
| 26 | Prayer | "Chaupai Sahib" | Prayer written by Guru Gobind Singh | |
| 27 | Title song | India Wali Ma | Sony TV | |
| 28 | Single | Pyaar Mileya | Single on her own music label | |
| 2021 | 29 | Single | Behaal | |
| 30 | Single | Jannat | Collaboration with UK Based artist Ezu | |
| 31 | Prayer | Tegh Bahadur Simriye | 400 years of Guru Tegh Bahadur Jayanti Special | |
| 32 | Bhoomi | Jallianwala | Released in Album Bhoomi by Salim Suleiman | |
| 2022 | 33 | Himesh Ke Dil Se | "Tenu Pyyarr Kardaa" | Music Album |
| 34 | Bhoomi | Koi Bole ram | Released in Album Bhoomi by Salim Suleiman | |
| 35 | Single | Ni Main Jaana | Featured at Times Square for Spotify Equal | |
| 36 | Prayer | Mere Maalik Ji | ||
| 37 | Single | Waah Sajna | Single on her own music label | |
| 38 | Prayer | Lakh Khushian Patshahian | ||
| 39 | Prayer | Purab Mubarak | ||
| 40 | Prayer | Jithe Jaaye Bahe Mera Satguru | ||
| 2024 | 41 | Single | Bhala Sipahiya | Dogri Song |
| 42 | Prayer | Naasro Mansoor Guru Gobind Singh | Released on her own music label | |
| 43 | Prayer | Ram Siya Ram | Released on the occasion of Ram Mandir opening at Ayodhya | |
| 44 | Single | O Sajna | Collaboration with Abhijit Vaghani | |
| 45 | Prayer | Anand Sahib | Released on her own music label | |
| 46 | Single | Yaar Banaaya Tennu | Collaboration with Kunaal Vermaa & Abhijit Vaghani | |
| 47 | Single | Dua | Collaboration with ShameerTandon and released on Zee Music | |
| 48 | Single | Pardesiya | Collaboration with Kanwar Grewal | |
| 49 | Single | Teri Ban Jaana | Released on Zee Music |
Awards and nominations
[edit]Reality competitions
[edit]- Winner, MTV Video GaGa Contest (2001)
- Winner, NDTV Imagine's JUNOON Kuchh Kar Dikhane Ka (2008)
- Winner, Aao Jhoomein Gaayein (SAB TV)
- Winner, SAREGAMA Punjabi (Alpha TV)
Notes
[edit]- ^ Refers to the year in which the ceremony was held.
- ^ Shared with Co-Singer Arijit Singh and Composers JAM8.
- ^ a b c Shared with Vibha Saraf for same song.
References
[edit]- ^ "Harshdeep Kaur on timesofindia". The Times of India. Retrieved 15 March 2017.
- ^ "Economictimes Harshdeep Kaur". The Economic Times. Retrieved 15 May 2017.
- ^ "My musical journey has been really beautiful: Harshdeep Kaur". Governance Now. 26 April 2018. Retrieved 11 May 2019.
- ^ Roy, Dhaval (20 November 2017). "Harshdeep Kaur to sing at Farhan Akhtar's concert". DNA India. Retrieved 1 November 2019.
- ^ ANI (19 September 2019). "IIFA 2019: Alia Bhatt-starrer 'Raazi' wins big; Ranveer Singh named Best Actor for 'Padmaavat'". Archived from the original on 12 October 2019. Retrieved 11 October 2019.
- ^ Kameshwari, A. (16 December 2017). "Happy birthday Harshdeep Kaur: The young singer who adds a Sufi twist to Bollywood songs". The Indian Express. Retrieved 14 April 2019.
- ^ "Music show fashions new teen princess of melody". Tribune. 20 July 2003. Retrieved 17 December 2023.
- ^ "Junoon made me a face". Rediff.com. Retrieved 11 May 2019.
- ^ "Musical chords that bind nations". Deccan Herald. 14 April 2014. Retrieved 1 November 2019.
- ^ "Harshdeep Kaur Turns 35: Why The Sufi Sensation Always Wears a Turban". News18. 16 December 2021. Retrieved 17 December 2023.
- ^ "The Voice winner: Sumit Saini wins the show, takes home prize money of Rs 25 lakh". India Today. 4 May 2019. Retrieved 17 December 2023.
- ^ "Harshdeep Kaur marries her best friend". The Indian Express. Indo-Asian News Service. 22 March 2015. Retrieved 14 May 2019.
- ^ Raghuvanshi, Aakanksha (3 March 2021). "Singer Harshdeep Kaur And Husband Mankeet Singh Welcome A Baby Boy". NDTV. Retrieved 4 March 2021.
- ^ Service, Tribune News (3 March 2021). "'Our junior 'Singh' has arrived': Singer Harshdeep Kaur, husband welcome baby boy". Tribune. Retrieved 4 March 2021.
- ^ "Harshdeep Kaur names her newborn son Hunar, here's what it means". The Indian Express. 10 March 2021. Retrieved 10 March 2021.
- ^ Hoo,Harshdeep Kaur,Coke Studio @ MTV,S01,E01, 9 June 2011, archived from the original on 19 December 2021, retrieved 28 October 2019
- ^ Nirmohiya – Amit Trivedi feat Devendra Singh & Harshdeep Kaur, Coke Studio @ MTV Season 2, 21 July 2012, archived from the original on 19 December 2021, retrieved 28 October 2019
- ^ Hey Ri – Hitesh Sonik feat Harshdeep Kaur, Coke Studio @ MTV Season 2, 14 July 2012, archived from the original on 19 December 2021, retrieved 28 October 2019
- ^ Papon & Harshdeep Kaur Teaser, Coke Studio @ MTV Season 3, 16 July 2013, archived from the original on 19 December 2021, retrieved 28 October 2019
- ^ 'Teriyaan Tu Jaane' – Studio Session – Amit Trivedi – Coke Studio @ MTV Season 4, March 2015, archived from the original on 19 December 2021, retrieved 28 October 2019
- ^ "I am fortunate to be working with Rahmanji: Harshdeep Kaur". Sify. 11 February 2011. Retrieved 23 July 2020.[dead link]
- ^ "Rockstar concert in Delhi, Mumbai in November". Hindustan Times. 2 October 2011. Retrieved 23 July 2020.
- ^ "'Rockstar' concert in Delhi, London in November". Zee News. 2 October 2011. Retrieved 23 July 2020.
- ^ a b c "A golden voice with a heart of gold". The Asian Age. 18 July 2017. Retrieved 23 July 2020.
- ^ "Harshdeep Kaur at London Mela 2013". BBC. Retrieved 23 July 2020.
- ^ "NGO AAS presents 'Ibaadat' Mehfil-e-Ruhaaniyat featuring Legendary Attaullah Khan's first performance in India at Purana Quila". DelhiEvents.com. 12 April 2014. Retrieved 23 July 2020.
- ^ "Harshdeep Kaur and Aditi Singh Sharma to open for Bryan Adams in India". The Indian Express. 9 October 2018. Retrieved 2 April 2019.
- ^ "Big Star Entertainment Awards 2011". Big Star Entertainment Awards. 31 December 2011. STAR India.
- ^ "Filmfare Awards 2011 Nominations". Filmfare. 1 February 2012. Retrieved 22 July 2020.
- ^ "GiMA Music Awards 2012 – Complete Nominations and Winners List". Koimoi. 2 October 2012. Retrieved 22 July 2020.
- ^ "Nominations for IIFA Awards 2012". Bollywood Hungama. 5 May 2012. Retrieved 22 July 2020.
- ^ "Nominations - Mirchi Music Award Hindi 2011". 30 January 2013. Archived from the original on 30 January 2013. Retrieved 22 July 2020.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: bot: original URL status unknown (link) - ^ Press Trust of India (20 January 2012). "Rockstar leads nominations at the Apsara Awards 2012". NDTV. Archived from the original on 10 July 2012. Retrieved 22 July 2020.
- ^ "ITA Awards 2013 Winners". Indicine.com. 24 October 2013. Retrieved 22 July 2020.
- ^ "GiMA Music Awards 2014 – Complete Winners". Global Indian Music Academy Awards. Retrieved 22 July 2020.
- ^ "Nominations of Mirchi Music Awards Punjab 2015". Mirchi Music Awards. Retrieved 22 July 2020.
- ^ "PTC Punjabi Film Awards 2015 Winners & Results". The Times of India. 12 January 2017. Retrieved 22 July 2020.
- ^ "Nominees and Winners of 15th Lux Style Awards 2016". Lux Style Awards. Archived from the original on 1 April 2022. Retrieved 22 July 2020.
- ^ "Zee Cine Awards 2018 complete nominees and winners list". Zee Cine Awards. Retrieved 22 July 2020.
- ^ "Star Screen Awards 2018 complete winners list". Hindustan Times. 17 December 2018. Retrieved 22 July 2020.
- ^ "Nominations for the 64th Vimal Elaichi Filmfare Awards 2019". Filmfare. 12 March 2019. Retrieved 22 July 2020.
- ^ "IIFA 2019 full winners list". India Today. 19 September 2019. Retrieved 22 July 2020.
- ^ "Nominations for the 11th Mirchi Music Awards". Mirchi Music Awards. Retrieved 22 July 2020.
- ^ "Zee Cine Awards full winners list". India Today. 20 March 2019. Retrieved 22 July 2020.
External links
[edit]Harshdeep Kaur
View on GrokipediaEarly life and education
Childhood and family background
Harshdeep Kaur was born on 16 December 1986 in Delhi, India, into a Sikh family immersed in musical traditions.[8] Her father, Savinder Singh, owned a factory producing musical instruments and was himself a skilled guitarist, fostering an environment filled with sounds that sparked her early interest in music.[9][10] Her mother supported the household alongside family members who recognized and encouraged Kaur's musical enthusiasm from childhood. In a close-knit family with her sister Simran, Kaur grew up surrounded by these influences, participating in school activities that highlighted her vocal talents.[2] She attended schools in Delhi, including New Era Public School and Springdales School, where changes in schooling marked key transitions in her formative years.[2] She later graduated from SNDT Women's University in Mumbai.[2] This early familial and educational environment laid the foundation for her passion, leading briefly to structured musical pursuits in her pre-teen years.[11]Musical training
Harshdeep Kaur began her formal musical education during her school years in Delhi, where she enrolled at New Era Public School, an institution that strengthened her command over Hindi and Urdu pronunciation essential for vocal training.[12] Influenced by her father's encouragement, she started classical music lessons at the age of six, laying the groundwork for her technical proficiency in Hindustani vocals.[12] Her primary training in Indian classical music came under the guidance of Tejpal Singh, one half of the renowned Singh Bandhu duo, exponents of Hindustani classical traditions and shabad kirtan, who imparted the core principles of raga, tala, and vocal modulation.[13] She also learned Western classical music from George Pullinkala at the Delhi Music Theatre.[14] At age twelve, she expanded her skills by joining the Delhi School of Music in Chanakyapuri to study piano and further Western classical techniques, blending Eastern and Western methodologies to enhance her versatility as a singer.[12] This dual training honed her ability to navigate complex melodic structures and harmonies, forming the bedrock of her later Sufi interpretations. During her school years, Kaur actively participated in local Sunday music competitions across Delhi, which provided practical exposure and built her stage confidence through performances of patriotic songs like "Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon" and duets with her sister inspired by The Sound of Music.[13] These early experiences in school assemblies and community events allowed her to apply her classical foundations in live settings, fostering discipline and audience engagement before her professional pursuits.[12]Professional career
Reality television and debut
Harshdeep Kaur gained initial recognition in the music industry through her participation in reality television competitions that showcased her vocal talents and Sufi influences. At the age of 15, she won the singing contest MTV Video Ga Ga in 2001, which marked her first major exposure on national television and opened doors to professional opportunities in music. This victory highlighted her ability to blend classical training with contemporary styles, earning praise for her emotive delivery during performances that included original compositions and popular tracks. Building on this foundation, Kaur competed in the 2008 reality show Junoon – Kuch Kar Dikhaane Ka on NDTV Imagine, representing the "Sufi Ke Sultan" genre. She captivated audiences and judges with versatile performances, such as her rendition of "Jaana Jogi De Naal" in the initial rounds and "Bulla Ki Jaana" during later episodes, which demonstrated her command over Sufi poetry and melody. Her interactions with judges, including Sonu Nigam and Salim Merchant, emphasized her unique Sufi flair and technical skill, with Nigam noting her potential to revive traditional genres in modern contexts. Emerging as the winner, Kaur received national acclaim, solidifying her reputation as a rising Sufi singer and leading to increased visibility in the industry. Following her reality show successes, Kaur pursued early professional gigs, including recording jingles for advertisements and minor backing vocal tracks for albums, which provided steady work while she honed her craft. These opportunities allowed her to collaborate with established producers and build a network in Mumbai's music scene. Her breakthrough into playback singing came in 2003 with the song "Sajna Main Haari" for the film Aapko Pehle Bhi Dekha Hai, composed by Bappi Lahiri, marking her official debut in Bollywood soundtracks at the age of 16. This track, a romantic ballad, showcased her soulful timbre and versatility across genres, setting the stage for future film assignments.Playback singing in films
Harshdeep Kaur's playback singing career in films gained significant momentum following her early recognition on reality television, where she showcased her vocal prowess in Sufi and devotional genres. Her prominence in Bollywood grew with tracks like "Katiya Karun" from Rockstar (2011), "Jugni" from Cocktail (2012), and "Kabira" from Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013), which highlighted her emotive depth and ability to blend traditional elements with cinematic storytelling. Another significant contribution was "Heer" from the 2012 film Jab Tak Hai Jaan, composed by A.R. Rahman.[15] Kaur's contributions to Bollywood expanded through several notable tracks that demonstrated her versatility across romantic and celebratory themes. In 2016, her duet with Arijit Singh on "Zaalima" from Raees, produced by JAM8 under Pritam, became a chart-topping hit, blending pulsating rhythms with heartfelt lyrics to underscore the film's intense romance. Another standout was "Sachi Muchi" in Sultan (2016), a lively duet with Mohit Chauhan composed by Vishal-Shekhar, which infused the sports drama with joyful energy and earned praise for its infectious hook. She also sang the poignant "Dilbaro" from Raazi (2018), composed by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy.[16] Beyond Hindi cinema, Kaur has made impactful contributions to regional films, particularly in Punjabi cinema, where her roots shine through. In Punjab 1984 (2014), she sang "Lori", for which she won a Mirchi Music Award and PTC Film Award. Her work in such films has helped bridge Bollywood's polish with regional authenticity, often incorporating folk influences that resonate with diverse audiences.[2] Throughout her filmography, Kaur has forged key collaborations with leading composers, enhancing her reputation for nuanced performances. Her longstanding partnership with A.R. Rahman continued beyond Jab Tak Hai Jaan, while tracks like "Zaalima" solidified her synergy with Pritam, and "Sachi Muchi" exemplified her rapport with Vishal-Shekhar. As of 2025, she contributed to the title track "Jaan Abhi Baaki Hai (Female Version)" in the film Jaan Abhi Baaki Hai, composed by Mahesh Matkar, delivering a poignant rendition that explores themes of love and resilience.[17] These associations underscore her enduring influence in Indian cinema's musical landscape.Sufi music and independent releases
Harshdeep Kaur has established herself as a prominent figure in Sufi music through her independent projects, blending traditional qawwali elements with contemporary arrangements to evoke spiritual depth. Her debut Sufi album, Rubaru (2013), released under Times Music, features soul-stirring tracks such as "Maula Maula," "Damadam Mast Kalandar," and "Rubaru Rubaru," which explore themes of divine love and longing, drawing from classical Sufi poetry. The album showcases her ability to infuse raw emotion into devotional lyrics, marking a significant step in her non-film career and earning acclaim for its authentic rendition of Sufi traditions.[18][19] Kaur's independent releases often incorporate covers and original compositions that highlight her interpretive prowess in the genre. For instance, her rendition of Rabbi Shergill's "Tere Bin" in 2020 served as a heartfelt tribute, integrating Sufi nuances into the folk-inspired track while emphasizing personal spirituality. Through her ongoing Junoon series, launched via Saibaba Studios, she has produced a collection of standalone Sufi songs like "Jaana Jogi De Naal" and "Chaap Tilak," which reinterpret timeless bhajans and qawwalis with minimalistic instrumentation to foster introspection and connection with the divine. Influenced by her Sikh heritage, Kaur's music frequently delves into universal spiritual themes, merging Sufi mysticism with Gurbani elements from her upbringing. Born into a Sikh family in Delhi, she credits early exposure to Sikh hymns like Ik Onkar—which she first sang for the 2006 film Rang De Basanti and later released as an independent devotional album Ik Onkar-Japji Sahib in 2012—as her foundational inspiration, shaping her approach to Sufi expressions of oneness and devotion.[14][20][21] This fusion is evident in tracks that transcend religious boundaries, promoting healing and inner peace, as she has described Sufi music's transformative power in interviews. In recent years, Kaur has continued to expand her independent catalog with Sufi-infused singles and EPs, addressing evolving spiritual narratives amid digital platforms. Her 2023 release "Waah Sajna," featuring dancer Mukti Mohan and composed by Gulraj Singh, is a modern Sufi track celebrating gratitude and self-acceptance, blending acoustic guitars with traditional rhythms for a fresh yet rooted sound.[22][23] Following this, the 2025 single "Chann Diggeya Ve" incorporates Punjabi folk-Sufi vibes, while the single "Sukh Shanti," released in November 2025 under White Hill Music, offers a serene devotional piece invoking peace through repetitive mantras, reflecting her commitment to accessible spiritual music in the post-pandemic era.[24][25] These works underscore her artistic independence, prioritizing thematic resonance over commercial constraints.Personal life
Marriage and family
Harshdeep Kaur married her childhood friend Mankeet Singh in a traditional Sikh wedding ceremony on March 20, 2015, held privately in Mumbai. The couple, who had known each other since school days in Delhi, opted for a low-key event, with Kaur sharing the news on social media shortly after, expressing gratitude for the blessings received.[26] On March 2, 2021, Kaur and Singh welcomed their first child, a son named Hunar Singh. The singer announced the birth on Instagram, describing the moment as one of immense joy and calling her newborn "Junior Singh." Hunar, whose name means "skill" or "art" in Punjabi, reflecting the family's artistic inclinations, has been a significant part of Kaur's life since his arrival.[27][28] Kaur has openly discussed the challenges and joys of balancing her demanding music career with motherhood, noting that Hunar often accompanies her to outdoor shoots and recordings, making the transition smoother. She has described her son as a "lyrical miracle," emphasizing how she introduces him to diverse music genres to foster his early exposure to sounds that inspire her own work. In interviews, Kaur has highlighted how family life, rooted in Sikh traditions, continues to influence her Sufi performances, providing emotional depth while she navigates work-life harmony.[29][30]Philanthropic activities
Harshdeep Kaur has actively supported various charitable causes through her musical performances and advocacy, particularly focusing on education, community welfare, and social equity. In March 2024, she performed at Alia Bhatt's Hope Gala in London, an event organized to raise funds for the Salaam Bombay Foundation, which provides in-school programs on leadership, advocacy, and life skills to empower underprivileged children in Mumbai's slums.[31] The foundation's initiatives target vulnerable adolescents, helping them build resilience and avoid early dropout from education.[32] During the COVID-19 pandemic, Kaur contributed to relief efforts by participating in multiple fundraising concerts. She joined the "I for India" virtual concert in May 2020, organized by filmmakers Karan Johar and Zoya Akhtar, where all proceeds went to the India COVID Response Fund managed by GiveIndia to support frontline workers and affected communities.[33] Additionally, in July 2020, she appeared in NDTV's "Dil Se Sewa" telethon, an initiative by the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee to sustain langars—Sikh community kitchens—providing free meals to thousands amid lockdowns.[34] She also pledged support for folk artists through the "Padharo Mhare Des" virtual COVID relief concert series in November 2020, aimed at aiding cultural workers facing economic hardship.[35] Kaur has advocated for women's empowerment within the music industry, emphasizing equity and equal opportunities during the Women in Cinema event in May 2023, where she highlighted how professionals are actively implementing inclusive practices beyond mere rhetoric.[36] Her involvement in Sikh community initiatives includes promoting sewa (selfless service) through performances of Gurbani, such as during the 2020 "Dil Se Sewa" campaign, which reinforced the Sikh tradition of communal feeding and support.[37] In September 2025, she performed the sacred Mool Mantra at a private event with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, underscoring her commitment to cultural and spiritual contributions within the Sikh community.[38]Live performances
Concerts and tours
Harshdeep Kaur has headlined several major concert series and tours, emphasizing her signature fusion of classical Sufi traditions with contemporary Bollywood and Punjabi elements, often featuring live instrumentation, qawwali rhythms, and elements like Sufi whirling dancers to create immersive spiritual experiences.[39] In 2018, she launched her solo UK tour, performing a blend of Sufi classics and popular tracks at London's IndigO2 on 10 March and the Waterside Theatre in Aylesbury on 11 March, drawing large crowds with her powerful vocals and emotional depth.[40] This tour marked one of her early international headlining efforts, showcasing her ability to connect with diaspora audiences through soul-stirring renditions. Kaur has also performed at prominent international festivals and events, including headlining the MOSAIC multicultural festival's outdoor concert in Saskatoon, Canada, in July 2013, where she captivated attendees with Sufi-infused Bollywood numbers.[41] In North America, she served as the leading performer on Pritam's inaugural tour across multiple cities in April 2018, highlighting her versatility in live settings.[42] Her appearances include Sufi-focused festivals like Jahan-e-Khusrau in Delhi, where she performed in 2025, blending poetic devotion and melody.[43] During the COVID-19 pandemic, Kaur adapted to virtual formats, participating in online concerts such as a September 2020 event supporting folk artists, streamed on social platforms to reach global fans amid lockdowns.[44] Post-2020, she staged a strong comeback with live tours, including a four-city North India series in 2023 that featured high-energy Sufi fusion sets.[45] By 2024, she returned to the UK for a headlining show at London's indigo at The O2 on 12 July, reviving her international presence with tracks like "Heer" and "Kabira."[46] In 2025, Kaur continued this momentum with concerts such as the "Noor – Sounds of Sufi" series in Singapore's Capitol Theatre on 11 October, incorporating multimedia visuals and dancer collaborations for a transcendent atmosphere, as well as concerts in Mumbai on January 25 and Pune on February 15, alongside performances at India's Baliyatra festival in November.[47][48][49]Collaborations and stage appearances
Harshdeep Kaur has made notable guest appearances on television music programs, including serving as a coach on the third season of The Voice India in 2019, where she mentored aspiring singers alongside judges Adnan Sami, Armaan Malik, and Kanika Kapoor.[50] Her involvement extended beyond the studio, as she hosted contestants at her home to foster a supportive environment during the competition.[51] Kaur featured prominently on MTV Unplugged, collaborating with composer Pritam in the 2016 episode to perform an acoustic rendition of "Aaj Din Chadheya," blending her Sufi-infused vocals with live instrumentation.[52] She extended this unplugged format internationally, performing at the inaugural MTV Unplugged concert in Singapore, 'Sounds of Sufi', in 2017, which highlighted her crossover appeal in global Indian music scenes.[53] Another key collaboration came in Dubai that same year, where she shared the stage with Pakistani singer Shafqat Amanat Ali for a fusion performance emphasizing shared Sufi traditions.[54] In addition to television, Kaur has delivered promotional stage performances at major award shows, such as joining Vibha Saraf for a duet at the Zee Cine Awards 2019, celebrating their shared work on film soundtracks.[55] More recently, she participated in interactive segments at the Mirchi Music Awards Grand Jury in 2024, engaging audiences with improvisational takes on Bollywood classics.[56] Her stage engagements continued into 2025 with appearances at cultural festivals, including a soulful set at Odisha's Baliyatra fair in November, where she connected with crowds through devotional and fusion pieces.[57]Discography
Film soundtracks
Harshdeep Kaur has lent her voice to over 50 film soundtracks, primarily in Hindi and Punjabi cinema, often blending Sufi influences with contemporary melodies. Her contributions include solo renditions, duets, and group songs, collaborating with artists like Arijit Singh and Diljit Dosanjh. Notable examples span Bollywood blockbusters and regional Punjabi films, showcasing her versatility across languages.| Year | Film | Song | Language | Co-singers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | Rang De Basanti | Ik Onkar | Hindi | None |
| 2010 | Band Baaja Baaraat | Baari Barsi | Hindi | Labh Janjua, Salim Merchant |
| 2011 | Rockstar | Katiya Karun | Hindi | None |
| 2012 | Jab Tak Hai Jaan | Heer | Hindi | None |
| 2012 | Cocktail | Jugni (Alif Allah) | Hindi | Arif Lohar |
| 2013 | Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani | Kabira (Encore) | Hindi | Arijit Singh |
| 2014 | Punjab 1984 | Lori | Punjabi | None |
| 2015 | Shaandaar | Pallo Latke | Hindi | Arijit Singh |
| 2016 | Baar Baar Dekho | Nachde Ne Saare | Hindi | Jasleen Royal, Siddharth Mahadevan |
| 2016 | Sultan | Sachi Muchi | Hindi | Mohit Chauhan |
| 2016 | Udta Punjab | Ikk Kudi | Punjabi | Diljit Dosanjh |
| 2016 | Kaptaan | Rabba Rabba | Punjabi | None |
| 2017 | Raees | Zaalima | Hindi | Arijit Singh |
| 2014 | Punjab 1984 | Rabb Meri Umar | Punjabi | None |
| 2018 | Raazi | Dilbaro | Hindi | None |
| 2020 | Happy Hardy and Heer | Ishqbaaziyaan | Hindi | Jubin Nautiyal, Asees Kaur, Alamgir Khan |
| 2025 | Love In Vietnam | Burrah Burrah | Punjabi | Malkit Singh, Meet Bros, Ninja |
Non-film songs and albums
Harshdeep Kaur has released several independent albums and singles outside of film soundtracks, spanning genres such as Sufi, pop, and devotional music, often drawing from her Punjabi roots and spiritual influences. Her early non-film output includes pop-oriented albums that marked her entry into the music industry, while later works emphasize Sufi mysticism and Sikh devotional themes, reflecting her nickname "Sufi Ki Sultana." These releases have garnered attention for their soulful renditions and have been distributed through major platforms like Times Music and White Hill Music.[58][59]Sufi Albums and Singles
Kaur's Sufi music often features poetic explorations of love, longing, and divine connection, with prominent releases including the album Rubaru (2013), produced by Times Music. This Sufi-focused collection showcases her vocal depth through traditional and contemporary interpretations. The tracklist includes:| Track | Title | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Maula Maula | 4:55 |
| 2 | Yaad Piya Ki Aaye | 4:59 |
| 3 | Rubaru Rubaru | 5:14 |
| 4 | Damadam Mast Kalandar | 3:57 |
| 5 | Ilahi Tera Jalwa | 4:23 |
| 6 | Allah Hu | 4:35 |
| 7 | Ishq Da Rog | 3:45 |
| 8 | Ye Hai Rang Rang | 3:28 |
Pop Albums
Kaur's initial foray into non-film music was through pop albums that established her as a versatile artist. Her debut, Romantica (2002), featured youthful, melodic tracks in Punjabi and Hindi, signaling her transition from classical training to commercial releases. This was followed by contributions to Ishq (2006), an album exploring romantic themes with upbeat rhythms and her signature emotive delivery, though specific track details remain less documented in major archives. These early works laid the foundation for her broader career, emphasizing accessible pop with cultural nuances.[63][58]Devotional Albums and Singles
Devotional music forms a significant part of Kaur's independent output, particularly Sikh Gurbani-inspired works that resonate with her heritage. The album Ik Onkar (Mool Mantra) (2012) is a cornerstone, reciting the foundational Sikh mantra with serene instrumentation, produced under her own composition efforts. Key tracks include the title mantra and extended Japji Sahib path, aimed at spiritual reflection.[64] Satnam Waheguru Ji (2017) expands on this with chants invoking divine peace. In 2019, she contributed to the collaborative single "Satguru Nanak Aaye Ne," celebrating Guru Nanak's 550th birth anniversary with multiple artists, composed by Kaur herself. More recent devotional singles include "Sukh Shanti" (2025), a Punjabi bhakti song released by White Hill Music, emphasizing tranquility and faith, and "Toon Mero Pyaro" (2020), a Gurbani shabad focusing on divine love. These tracks, often self-composed or arranged, underscore her role in contemporary devotional music. She also contributed to the compilation Evening Delights (2017) with the track "Saajan Aayo Re" alongside Laxmi Narayan.[58][65][66][67][68][69]Awards and recognition
Reality show achievements
Harshdeep Kaur first gained prominence in the music industry through her victory in the MTV Video GaGa Contest in 2001, at the age of 14, where she outperformed thousands of contestants with her rendition of a Sufi-inspired track.[70] This win marked her as a prodigious talent and provided an early platform for her soulful voice, earning her initial recognition in the competitive singing scene.[71] Her most significant reality show achievement came in 2008 when she won NDTV Imagine's Junoon – Kuch Kar Dikhaane Ka, a multi-genre talent competition that emphasized versatility across music styles. Competing in the "Sufi Ke Sultan" team, Kaur impressed judges and audiences with powerful Sufi performances, ultimately being crowned the overall winner in a grand finale that highlighted her command over classical and devotional genres.[72] The victory, attributed to her authentic Sufi renditions and stage presence, solidified her reputation as "Sufi Ki Sultana."[73] These reality show triumphs had lasting impacts on Kaur's career trajectory, opening doors to professional playback opportunities and mentorship roles in subsequent television formats. Following her Junoon win, she received offers for Bollywood soundtracks, transitioning from contestant to established artist and later serving as a coach on shows like The Voice India.[54] No major retrospective honors specifically tied to her reality TV participations have been awarded as of 2025, though her early successes continue to be celebrated in profiles of influential Indian singers.[74]Film and music awards
Harshdeep Kaur has received several accolades for her contributions to playback singing in Hindi and Punjabi films, as well as her work in Sufi and devotional music, from prominent award bodies such as the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA), Zee Cine Awards, Mirchi Music Awards, and PTC Punjabi Music Awards. These honors recognize her emotive renditions in soundtracks and standalone tracks, highlighting her versatility across genres.[75] Her notable wins include recognitions for soulful tracks that blend traditional elements with contemporary film narratives, establishing her as a prominent voice in Indian cinema music. Below is a categorized list of her key film and music awards by year.| Year | Award | Category | Song/Film | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | Mirchi Music Awards Punjabi | Film Female Vocalist of the Year | Punjab 1984 ("Rabb Meri Umar") | Recognized for her powerful vocal performance in the Punjabi historical drama.[76] |
| 2015 | PTC Punjabi Film Awards | Best Female Playback Singer | Punjab 1984 ("Lori") | Awarded for the poignant lullaby that captures the film's emotional core.[77] |
| 2019 | IIFA Awards | Best Female Playback Singer | Raazi ("Dilbaro", shared with Vibha Saraf) | Honored for the heartfelt father-daughter anthem in the espionage thriller.[78] |
| 2019 | Zee Cine Awards | Best Playback Singer (Female) | Raazi ("Dilbaro", shared with Vibha Saraf) | Praised for the song's emotional depth and cultural resonance.[79] |
| 2020 | PTC Punjabi Music Awards | Best Religious Song (Non-Traditional) | Ik Onkar (feat. various artists) | Celebrated for a contemporary rendition of the Sikh devotional hymn.[80] |
| 2022 | Indian Independent Music Awards (IIMA) | Best Devotional Song | Satguru Nanak Aaye Ne | Won for her devotional track honoring Guru Nanak.[81] |
| 2025 | ITSF Padma Shri Mahendra Kapoor Jeevan Gaurav Award | Singer | Career recognition | Lifetime achievement award for contributions to music.[82] |