Hemlata Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Songs & Achievements
Introduction
Hemlata is an acclaimed Indian playback singer known for her melodious and soulful voice that graced Hindi films, devotional albums, and regional music from the late 1960s onwards. She gained fame in the 1970s and 1980s, becoming one of the most popular female playback singers of her time. With her sweet, classical touch and emotional singing, Hemlata delivered numerous evergreen hits that continue to be loved by music enthusiasts.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Hemlata Bhatt (professionally known as Hemlata)
- Date of Birth: 16 August 1954
- Birthplace: Hyderabad, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Occupation: Playback Singer, Devotional Music Artist
Early Life & Family
Hemlata was born into a Rajput family in Hyderabad and grew up in Jaipur. From a very young age, she displayed a natural gift for singing. Her father, an advocate by profession, supported her musical passion.
She was trained in Hindustani classical music under the guidance of Pandit Harishchandra, which laid a strong foundation for her playback career.
Musical Journey & Career Highlights
Entry into Playback Singing
Hemlata began her singing career in the late 1960s and made her mark with her melodious and devotional style. Her breakthrough came in the 1970s when she collaborated with legendary music directors.
Iconic Songs
Some of her most popular Bollywood songs include:
- “Tu Is Tarah Se Meri Zindagi Mein” (Aap To Aise Na The, 1980)
- “Megha O Re Megha” (Sunayana, 1979)
- “Ankhiyon Ke Jharokhon Se” (Ankhiyon Ke Jharokhon Se, 1978)
- “Yeh Jeevan Hai” (Piya Ka Ghar, 1972)
- “Sawan Ke Jhoole Pade” (Judaai, 1980)
Her voice became synonymous with innocence and romance, perfectly fitting the musical mood of the era.
Devotional & Regional Music
Apart from film music, Hemlata has sung extensively in bhajans, ghazals, and regional songs in languages like Rajasthani, Bhojpuri, and Gujarati.
Collaborations
Hemlata worked with many leading music directors, including:
- Ravindra Jain (who played a key role in shaping her career)
- Kalyanji–Anandji
- Laxmikant–Pyarelal
- Rajesh Roshan
She also sang duets with top singers like Kishore Kumar, Mukesh, Mohammed Rafi, and Yesudas.
Awards & Achievements
- Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer for Tu Is Tarah Se Meri Zindagi Mein (Aap To Aise Na The, 1980).
- Multiple Filmfare nominations in the 1970s and 1980s.
- Honored by cultural and music organizations for her contribution to Indian playback singing and devotional music.
Personal Life
Hemlata has maintained a low personal profile, dedicating her life to music. She also devoted time to live concerts and devotional albums, spreading Indian music traditions globally.
Legacy & Influence
Hemlata is remembered as the voice of purity and romance in Hindi cinema of the 1970s and 1980s. Her close association with Ravindra Jain produced many evergreen hits that still resonate with audiences. Through both film and devotional music, she left an indelible mark on Indian playback singing.
FAQs
1. Which was Hemlata’s most famous song?
“Tu Is Tarah Se Meri Zindagi Mein” from Aap To Aise Na The remains her most iconic song.
2. Did Hemlata win a Filmfare Award?
Yes, she won the Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer in 1980.
3. Who mentored Hemlata in her career?
She was closely mentored by music director Ravindra Jain.
4. Has she sung devotional music?
Yes, Hemlata is well-known for her bhajans and spiritual albums.
5. What is Hemlata’s legacy?
She is remembered for her sweet, melodious voice that enriched Hindi cinema’s golden era of music.
