Born on March 20, 1966, in Kolkata, Alka Yagnik is a revered Indian playback singer, celebrated for her captivating vocals in Hindi cinema. Her musical journey commenced at the age of six when she began singing for Akashvani in Calcutta.
Recognising her talent, her mother took her to Mumbai, where she received an introduction to Raj Kapoor and, subsequently, met music director Laxmikant Shantaram Kudalkar, marking the commencement of her illustrious career.
Alka Yagnik's debut in 1980 with the film Payal Ki Jhankaar set the stage for her remarkable career. Songs like "Mere Angane Mein" from Laawaris (1981) marked her early prominence, but her breakthrough came in 1988 with the chart-topping "Ek Do Teen" from Tezaab. This success earned her the first of seven Filmfare Awards for Best Female Playback Singer.
Renowned for her versatility, Yagnik has lent her enchanting voice to over twenty-five languages, making her one of the most prolific female playback singers in Bollywood. Collaborating with Kumar Sanu and Udit Narayan in the '90s, the trio dominated playback singing for heroines, producing numerous romantic hits.
Alka Yagnik's contribution to the music industry is stellar, earning her seven Filmfare Awards, tying with Asha Bhosle. Her duets with Kumar Sanu and Udit Narayan have become iconic, and she boasts over 9000 songs in more than 300 films. In addition to playback singing, she has ventured into private albums and devotional songs, showcasing her musical diversity.
As of 2023, Alka Yagnik has a net worth of around $10 Million.
In 1989, Alka Yagnik married Neeraj Kapoor, a Shillong-based businessman, and the couple shares a daughter named Syesha. Despite her illustrious career, Yagnik has extended her expertise to judging singing reality shows on television, expressing her dedication to nurturing new talent.
Alka Yagnik's legacy goes beyond awards, earning her the title "the queen of playback singing." With a voice that beautifully conveys diverse emotions, she remains a cherished and influential figure in the realm of Indian music.
In 2022, Guinness World Records acknowledged her as the most-streamed artist globally on YouTube, accumulating a staggering 15.3 billion views. Yagnik's timeless melodies ensure her enduring presence in the rich tapestry of Bollywood's musical landscape.
