Neha Kakkar Singh is a prominent Indian playback singer known for her energetic voice and infectious performances. As the younger sister of fellow playback singers Tony Kakkar and Sonu Kakkar, Neha has carved out her own niche in the music industry. Her journey from performing at religious events to becoming one of the most-followed artists on YouTube is a testament to her talent and dedication.
Early Life and Background
Born in Rishikesh, Uttar Pradesh (now Uttarakhand), Neha Kakkar’s musical journey began at the tender age of four, performing at local gatherings and religious events. Her family moved to Delhi in the early 1990s to support her singing aspirations. In 2004, she moved to Mumbai with her brother Tony Kakkar to pursue a career in music.
Rise to Fame
Neha’s first major break came in 2005 when she participated in the second season of the singing reality show Indian Idol. Despite being eliminated early, she caught the public’s attention. Her Bollywood debut as a chorus singer in Meerabai Not Out marked the beginning of her journey in the film industry. However, it was the release of the dance track “Second Hand Jawaani” from Cocktail in 2012 that propelled her into the spotlight.
Chart-Topping Hits
Neha Kakkar became synonymous with hit party tracks. Songs like “Sunny Sunny” from Yaariyan and “London Thumakda” from the Queen soundtrack showcased her versatile voice and established her as a household name. Her collaborations with popular composers and artists, including Yo Yo Honey Singh and Tanishk Bagchi, resulted in numerous chartbusters.
Awards and Recognitions
In 2019, Neha was listed among the most-viewed female artists on YouTube, amassing 13.9 billion views. She made history by becoming the first Indian singer to win a YouTube Diamond Award in January 2021. Her influence extends beyond music, as evidenced by her appearances in the India Forbes Celebrity 100 list in 2017 and 2019 and her inclusion in Forbes Asia’s 100 Digital Stars in December 2020.
Personal Life
Neha’s personal life has also been in the spotlight. After a high-profile relationship with actor Himansh Kohli ended in 2018, she found love again with Punjabi musical artist Rohanpreet Singh. The couple got married in a traditional ceremony in New Delhi on 24 October 2020.
Artistry and Influence
Known for her distinct, chirpy, and occasionally nasal voice, Neha Kakkar’s style has been both celebrated and critiqued. She admits to being greatly influenced by her elder sister Sonu Kakkar and credits her brother Tony Kakkar for his constant support. Despite not having formal vocal training, Neha’s natural talent and hard work have made her one of the most successful playback singers in India.
Social Media and Public Image
Neha Kakkar is highly active on social media, where she engages with her fans and shares glimpses of her personal and professional life. In October 2019, she received the Instagram trophy, recognizing her as the first Indian musician and the fifth Indian to reach a significant milestone on the platform.
Recent Work and Future Projects
In 2022, Neha continued to release new music, including “Mud Mud Ke” with Tony Kakkar and “Baarish Mein Tum” with Rohanpreet Singh. Despite facing criticism for her involvement in remakes of classic songs, Neha’s popularity remains undiminished. She continues to innovate and inspire aspiring singers through platforms like her exclusive Masterclass with FrontRow.
Neha Kakkar Singh’s journey from a young girl performing at local events to a global music sensation is a remarkable story of perseverance, talent, and passion. Her contributions to the music industry and her ability to connect with audiences worldwide make her a true icon of modern Indian music.
