Suresh Wadkar Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Songs & Achievements
Introduction
Suresh Wadkar is a veteran Indian playback singer, music teacher, and performer, celebrated for his melodious and soulful voice. Active since the late 1970s, he has lent his voice to Hindi, Marathi, Bhojpuri, Konkani, and various regional films. Known for classics like Seene Mein Jalan (Gaman), Tumse Milke Aisa Laga (Parinda), and devotional renditions, Suresh Wadkar has built a legacy rooted in both Bollywood playback and Indian classical music. With a career spanning over four decades, he is regarded as one of India’s most respected playback singers and mentors.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Suresh Ishwar Wadkar
- Date of Birth: 7 August 1955
- Birthplace: Kolhapur, Maharashtra, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Occupation: Playback Singer, Music Teacher
- Zodiac Sign: Leo
- Spouse: Padma Wadkar (singer)
- Children: Two daughters
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 6 inches (167 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 70 kg
- Hair Color: Black (now grey)
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Suresh Wadkar was born in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, and raised in a modest Maharashtrian family. Initially, his interest was in teaching music, but his extraordinary voice soon led him towards playback singing. He trained in Indian classical music under Pandit Jialal Vasant, which gave him the strong foundation that defined his singing career.
Musical Journey & Career Highlights
Debut
Suresh Wadkar’s playback debut came with “Seene Mein Jalan” from the film Gaman (1978), composed by Jaidev. The song received immense critical acclaim and introduced his unique voice to Bollywood.
Bollywood Career
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Wadkar became a leading playback singer, working with legendary music directors such as R.D. Burman, Laxmikant–Pyarelal, Kalyanji–Anandji, Rajesh Roshan, and Vishal Bhardwaj.
Some of his most famous songs include:
- Seene Mein Jalan (Gaman, 1978)
- Tumse Milke Aisa Laga (Parinda, 1989)
- Main Hoon Prem Rogi (Prem Rog, 1982)
- Megha Re Megha (Pyaasa Sawan, 1981)
- Lagi Aaj Sawan Ki (Chandni, 1989)
- Aye Zindagi Gale Laga Le (Sadma, 1983)
Regional & Devotional Music
Apart from Bollywood, Wadkar became a leading voice in Marathi films and devotional music. His bhajans, abhangs, and classical renditions have a devoted fan base.
Music Education
Suresh Wadkar is also a respected music guru. He runs Ajivasan Music Academy, training thousands of young talents in classical and playback singing.
Awards & Achievements
- Padma Shri (2020) – India’s fourth-highest civilian honor.
- National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer (2010) – for Mee Sindhutai Sapkal (Marathi film).
- Multiple Filmfare nominations for playback singing.
- Honored by state governments and cultural organizations for his contribution to Indian music.
Personal Life
Suresh Wadkar is married to Padma Wadkar, a singer and entrepreneur. They have two daughters and continue to contribute to the music field. Known for his humility and dedication, Wadkar balances his time between performing, teaching, and family.
Legacy & Influence
Suresh Wadkar’s legacy lies in his versatility and classical grounding. From Bollywood melodies to devotional bhajans, from soulful ghazals to Marathi hits, he has showcased the richness of Indian music. As a playback singer and music teacher, he has inspired countless singers and continues to shape the future of Indian classical and film music.
FAQs
1. What was Suresh Wadkar’s debut Bollywood song?
Seene Mein Jalan from Gaman (1978).
2. Has Suresh Wadkar won a National Award?
Yes, for the Marathi film Mee Sindhutai Sapkal (2010).
3. Did he receive any civilian awards?
Yes, he was honored with the Padma Shri in 2020.
4. What is Suresh Wadkar’s contribution apart from playback singing?
He runs the Ajivasan Music Academy to train young talents.
5. Which music directors has he collaborated with?
R.D. Burman, Laxmikant–Pyarelal, Vishal Bhardwaj, and many others.
