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Harshdeep Kaur
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:
    • Season 1 – Hoo[16] (Music recreated by Leslie Lewis) in 2011
    • Season 2 – Nirmohiya[17] (Music by Amit Trivedi) & Hey Ri[18] (Music by Hitesh Sonik) in 2012
    • Season 3 – Dinae Dinae[19] with Papon in 2013
    • Season 4 – Teriyan Tu Jaane[20] (Amit Trivedi) in 2015
  • 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]
Year [a] Award Category Film /Album Song Result Ref.
2011 BIG Star Entertainment Awards Most Entertaining Singer – Female Rockstar "Katiya Karoon" Nominated [28]
2012 Filmfare Awards Best Female Playback Singer Nominated [29]
Global Indian Music Academy Awards Best Female Playback Singer Nominated [30]
International Indian Film Academy Awards Best Female Playback Singer Nominated [31]
Mirchi Music Awards Female Vocalist of The Year Nominated [32]
Producers Guild Film Awards Best Female Playback Singer Nominated [33]
2013 Indian Television Academy Awards Best Singer Bani – Ishq Da Kalma "Bani Ishq Da Kalma" Won [34]
2014 Global Indian Music Academy Awards Best Devotional Album Ik On'kar N/a Won [35]
2015 Mirchi Music Awards Punjab Female Vocalist of The Year Punjab 1984 "Rabb Meri Umar" (Lori) Nominated [36]
PTC Punjabi Film Awards Best Female Playback Singer Won [37]
2016 Lux Style Awards Best Playback Singer - Female Bin Roye "Ballay Ballay" Nominated [38]
2018 Zee Cine Awards Song of the Year [b] Raees "Zaalima" Nominated [39]
Screen Awards Best Female Playback Singer Raazi "Dilbaro" Won [40]
2019 Filmfare Awards Best Female Playback Singer [c] Nominated [41]
International Indian Film Academy Awards Best Female Playback Singer [c] Won [42]
Mirchi Music Awards Female Vocalist of The Year Nominated [43]
Song of The Year Nominated
Reel Movie Awards Best Female Playback Singer Won
Zee Cine Awards Best Playback Singer – Female [c] Won [44]

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]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Harshdeep Kaur (born 16 December 1986) is an Indian playback singer renowned for her soulful renditions in Bollywood films, particularly in Sufi, Punjabi, and devotional genres, earning her the moniker "Sufi Ki Sultana." Born into a Sikh family in , she began her musical training at the age of six under her father Savinder , who owns a musical instruments factory, and later pursued formal education in with Tejpal and Western classical with George Pullinkala. Her career gained momentum after winning the Video GaGa contest in 2001 and debuting as a playback singer with "Sajna Main Haari" in the 2003 film Aapko Pehle Bhi Kahin Dekha Hai. Kaur rose to prominence through her victory on the reality show Junoon – Kuch Kar Dikhaane Ka in 2008, where she was titled "Sufi Ki Sultana," and her participation as the only singer across all four seasons of Coke Studio @ MTV from 2011 to 2015. She has sung over 100 songs in , including iconic tracks like "Katiya Karun" from Rockstar (2011), "Jugni" from (2012), "Heer" from (2012), "Kabira" from (2013), "Zaalima" from Raees (2017), "Dilbaro" from (2018), and "Nachde Ne Saare" from (2016), many of which earned her nominations for and IIFA Best Female awards. Her versatile voice has also featured in Punjabi films like "Lori" from (2014), for which she won a Mirchi Music Award and PTC Film Award, and devotional pieces such as "Ik Onkar" from (2006). In addition to her film work, Kaur has performed at international events like Music Week and the in , and contributed to albums and singles blending folk and contemporary elements. She received the Mirchi Top 20 Gold Disc for "" in 2017 and has been recognized with IIFA and in 2019. On the personal front, she married restaurateur in a traditional Sikh ceremony on 20 March 2015, and the couple welcomed their son, Hunar , on 2 March 2021. Educated at Springdales and New Era Public School in , and a graduate from SNDT University in , Kaur continues to advocate for tasteful remixes and the preservation of traditions.

Early life and education

Childhood and family background

Harshdeep Kaur was born on 16 December 1986 in , , into a Sikh family immersed in musical traditions. Her father, Savinder , owned a producing musical instruments and was himself a skilled , fostering an environment filled with sounds that sparked her early interest in music. 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. She attended schools in Delhi, including New Era Public School and Springdales School, where changes in schooling marked key transitions in her formative years. She later graduated from SNDT Women's University in Mumbai. This early familial and educational environment laid the foundation for her passion, leading briefly to structured musical pursuits in her pre-teen years.

Musical training

Harshdeep Kaur began her formal musical education during her school years in , where she enrolled at New Era Public School, an institution that strengthened her command over and pronunciation essential for vocal training. Influenced by her father's encouragement, she started lessons at the age of six, laying the groundwork for her technical proficiency in Hindustani vocals. Her primary training in came under the guidance of Tejpal Singh, one half of the renowned Singh Bandhu duo, exponents of Hindustani classical traditions and shabad , who imparted the core principles of , tala, and vocal modulation. She also learned Western classical music from George Pullinkala at the Music Theatre. At age twelve, she expanded her skills by joining the School of Music in to study and further Western classical techniques, blending Eastern and Western methodologies to enhance her versatility as a singer. 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 , 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 . 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.

Professional career

Reality television and debut

Harshdeep Kaur gained initial recognition in the music industry through her participation in competitions that showcased her vocal talents and Sufi influences. At the age of 15, she won the singing contest 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 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 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 , marking her official debut in Bollywood soundtracks at the age of 16. This track, a romantic , showcased her soulful 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. 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. 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. 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. 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 through her independent projects, blending traditional elements with contemporary arrangements to evoke spiritual depth. Her debut Sufi album, Rubaru (2013), released under , features soul-stirring tracks such as "Maula Maula," "Damadam ," 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. 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 , integrating Sufi nuances into the folk-inspired track while emphasizing personal . 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 elements from her upbringing. Born into a Sikh family in , she credits early exposure to Sikh hymns like —which she first sang for the 2006 film 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. This fusion is evident in tracks that transcend religious boundaries, promoting healing and , 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 and composed by Gulraj Singh, is a modern Sufi track celebrating and , blending acoustic guitars with traditional rhythms for a fresh yet rooted sound. 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. These works underscore her artistic independence, prioritizing thematic resonance over commercial constraints.

Personal life

Marriage and family

Harshdeep Kaur married her childhood friend Mankeet in a traditional Sikh wedding ceremony on March 20, 2015, held privately in . The couple, who had known each other since school days in , opted for a low-key event, with Kaur sharing the news on shortly after, expressing gratitude for the blessings received. On March 2, 2021, Kaur and welcomed their first child, a son named Hunar . The singer announced the birth on , describing the moment as one of immense joy and calling her newborn "Junior ." Hunar, whose name means "" or "" in Punjabi, reflecting the family's artistic inclinations, has been a significant part of Kaur's life since his arrival. Kaur has openly discussed the challenges and joys of balancing her demanding 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 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.

Philanthropic activities

Harshdeep Kaur has actively supported various charitable causes through her musical performances and , particularly focusing on , community welfare, and . In March 2024, she performed at Alia Bhatt's Hope Gala in , an event organized to raise funds for the Salaam Bombay Foundation, which provides in-school programs on leadership, , and life skills to empower underprivileged children in Mumbai's slums. The foundation's initiatives target vulnerable adolescents, helping them build resilience and avoid early dropout from . During the , 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 and , where all proceeds went to the COVID Response Fund managed by GiveIndia to support frontline workers and affected communities. Additionally, in July 2020, she appeared in NDTV's "Dil Se Sewa" , an initiative by the to sustain langars—Sikh community kitchens—providing free meals to thousands amid lockdowns. 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. 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. Her involvement in Sikh community initiatives includes promoting sewa (selfless service) through performances of , such as during the 2020 "Dil Se Sewa" campaign, which reinforced the Sikh tradition of communal feeding and support. In September 2025, she performed the sacred Mool Mantra at a private event with , underscoring her commitment to cultural and spiritual contributions within the Sikh community.

Live performances

Concerts and tours

Harshdeep Kaur has headlined several major series and tours, emphasizing her signature fusion of classical Sufi traditions with contemporary Bollywood and Punjabi elements, often featuring live instrumentation, rhythms, and elements like dancers to create immersive spiritual experiences. In , 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 on 11 March, drawing large crowds with her powerful vocals and emotional depth. This tour marked one of her early international headlining efforts, showcasing her ability to connect with 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 , , in July 2013, where she captivated attendees with Sufi-infused Bollywood numbers. In , she served as the leading performer on Pritam's inaugural tour across multiple cities in April 2018, highlighting her versatility in live settings. Her appearances include Sufi-focused festivals like Jahan-e-Khusrau in , where she performed in 2025, blending poetic devotion and melody. During the , 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. Post-2020, she staged a strong comeback with live tours, including a four-city series in 2023 that featured high-energy Sufi fusion sets. By 2024, she returned to the for a headlining show at London's indigo at on 12 July, reviving her international presence with tracks like "Heer" and "Kabira." 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 on January 25 and on February 15, alongside performances at India's Baliyatra festival in November.

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 , , and . Her involvement extended beyond the studio, as she hosted contestants at her home to foster a supportive environment during the competition. Kaur featured prominently on MTV Unplugged, collaborating with composer in the 2016 episode to perform an acoustic rendition of "Aaj Din Chadheya," blending her Sufi-infused vocals with live instrumentation. She extended this unplugged format internationally, performing at the inaugural concert in , 'Sounds of Sufi', in 2017, which highlighted her crossover appeal in global Indian music scenes. Another key collaboration came in that same year, where she shared the stage with Pakistani singer for a fusion performance emphasizing shared Sufi traditions. In addition to television, Kaur has delivered promotional stage performances at major award shows, such as joining Vibha Saraf for a duet at the 2019, celebrating their shared work on film soundtracks. More recently, she participated in interactive segments at the Mirchi Music Awards in 2024, engaging audiences with improvisational takes on Bollywood classics. 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.

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.
YearFilmSongLanguageCo-singers
2006Rang De BasantiIk OnkarHindiNone
2010Band Baaja BaaraatBaari BarsiHindiLabh Janjua, Salim Merchant
2011RockstarKatiya KarunHindiNone
2012Jab Tak Hai JaanHeerHindiNone
2012CocktailJugni (Alif Allah)HindiArif Lohar
2013Yeh Jawaani Hai DeewaniKabira (Encore)HindiArijit Singh
2014Punjab 1984LoriPunjabiNone
2015ShaandaarPallo LatkeHindiArijit Singh
2016Baar Baar DekhoNachde Ne SaareHindiJasleen Royal, Siddharth Mahadevan
2016SultanSachi MuchiHindiMohit Chauhan
2016Udta PunjabIkk KudiPunjabiDiljit Dosanjh
2016KaptaanRabba RabbaPunjabiNone
2017RaeesZaalimaHindiArijit Singh
2014Punjab 1984Rabb Meri UmarPunjabiNone
2018RaaziDilbaroHindiNone
2020Happy Hardy and HeerIshqbaaziyaanHindiJubin Nautiyal, Asees Kaur, Alamgir Khan
2025Love In VietnamBurrah BurrahPunjabiMalkit Singh, Meet Bros, Ninja

Non-film songs and albums

Harshdeep Kaur has released several and singles outside of film soundtracks, spanning genres such as Sufi, pop, and devotional , 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 and Sikh devotional themes, reflecting her "Sufi Ki Sultana." These releases have garnered attention for their soulful renditions and have been distributed through major platforms like and White Hill Music.

Sufi Albums and Singles

Kaur's often features poetic explorations of love, longing, and divine connection, with prominent releases including the album Rubaru (2013), produced by . This Sufi-focused collection showcases her vocal depth through traditional and contemporary interpretations. The tracklist includes:
TrackTitleDuration
1Maula Maula4:55
2Yaad Piya Ki Aaye4:59
3Rubaru Rubaru5:14
4Damadam 3:57
5Ilahi Tera Jalwa4:23
6Allah Hu4:35
7 Da Rog3:45
8Ye Hai Rang Rang3:28
More recent Sufi singles include "Maula Toh Puch" (2025), a meditative piece invoking spiritual guidance, released as a standalone track. Additionally, "Chann Diggeya Ve" (2025), a collaboration blending Sufi elements with Punjabi folk, was issued by Warner . "Jaane Jaan" (2025) further extends her Sufi repertoire with its ethereal composition. These singles highlight her ongoing commitment to the genre, often performed in live settings but recorded independently.

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 , signaling her transition from classical training to commercial releases. This was followed by contributions to (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.

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 with serene instrumentation, produced under her own composition efforts. Key tracks include the title and extended path, aimed at spiritual reflection. 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 song released by White Hill Music, emphasizing tranquility and , and "Toon Mero Pyaro" (2020), a 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.

Awards and recognition

Reality show achievements

Harshdeep Kaur first gained prominence in the music industry through her victory in the Video GaGa Contest in 2001, at the age of 14, where she outperformed thousands of contestants with her rendition of a Sufi-inspired track. 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. 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. The victory, attributed to her authentic Sufi renditions and stage presence, solidified her reputation as "Sufi Ki Sultana." 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 . 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.

Film and music awards

Harshdeep Kaur has received several accolades for her contributions to playback singing in 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), , Mirchi Music Awards, and Music Awards. These honors recognize her emotive renditions in soundtracks and standalone tracks, highlighting her versatility across genres. 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.
YearAwardCategorySong/FilmNotes
2014Mirchi Music Awards PunjabiFilm Female Vocalist of the YearPunjab 1984 ("Rabb Meri Umar")Recognized for her powerful vocal performance in the Punjabi historical drama.
2015PTC Punjabi Film AwardsBest Female Playback SingerPunjab 1984 ("Lori")Awarded for the poignant lullaby that captures the film's emotional core.
2019IIFA AwardsBest Female Playback SingerRaazi ("Dilbaro", shared with Vibha Saraf)Honored for the heartfelt father-daughter anthem in the espionage thriller.
2019Zee Cine AwardsBest Playback Singer (Female)Raazi ("Dilbaro", shared with Vibha Saraf)Praised for the song's emotional depth and cultural resonance.
2020PTC Punjabi Music AwardsBest Religious Song (Non-Traditional)Ik Onkar (feat. various artists)Celebrated for a contemporary rendition of the Sikh devotional hymn.
2022Indian Independent Music Awards (IIMA)Best Devotional SongSatguru Nanak Aaye NeWon for her devotional track honoring Guru Nanak.
2025ITSF Padma Shri Mahendra Kapoor Jeevan Gaurav AwardSingerCareer recognitionLifetime achievement award for contributions to music.
Kaur has also earned nominations from bodies like and Awards for earlier works such as "Katiya Karun" from Rockstar (2011), though she has not secured wins in those specific ceremonies to date. These awards underscore her impact on Bollywood and regional cinema, with a focus on songs that evoke deep emotional and spiritual connections.

References

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