Amit Kumar Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Songs & Achievements
Introduction
Amit Kumar is a renowned Indian playback singer, actor, and music director, admired for his melodious voice and versatile singing. The son of legendary singer Kishore Kumar, Amit carried forward his father’s rich musical legacy while establishing his own identity in Bollywood. With evergreen songs like Yaad Aa Rahi Hai, Ek Do Teen, Keh Do Ke Tum Ho Meri Warna, and Aati Rahengi Baharen, he became one of the most successful singers of the 1980s and 1990s.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Amit Kumar Ganguly
- Date of Birth: 3 July 1952
- Birthplace: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Occupation: Playback Singer, Actor, Music Director
- Zodiac Sign: Cancer
- Parents: Kishore Kumar (legendary singer–actor), Ruma Guha Thakurta (actress–singer)
- Spouse: Reema Ganguly
- Children: Two daughters
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 70 kg
- Hair Color: Black (now grey)
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Amit Kumar was born into a family of legendary musicians and actors. His father, Kishore Kumar, was one of India’s greatest playback singers, while his mother, Ruma Guha Thakurta, was a noted Bengali actress and singer.
Growing up, Amit was exposed to the world of music and cinema, which deeply influenced his career choices. Despite being Kishore Kumar’s son, Amit worked hard to create his own identity in the music industry.
Musical Journey & Career Highlights
Debut & Early Career
Amit Kumar made his playback debut in 1970 with the film Door Ka Rahi, directed and composed by his father Kishore Kumar. However, his major breakthrough came later in the late 1970s and 1980s.
Bollywood Stardom
Some of his most popular Bollywood songs include:
- “Yaad Aa Rahi Hai” (Love Story, 1981)
- “Keh Do Ke Tum Ho Meri Warna” (Tezaab, 1988)
- “Ek Do Teen” (Tezaab, 1988, duet with Alka Yagnik)
- “Roz Roz Aankhon Tale” (Jeeva, 1986, with Asha Bhosle)
- “Aati Rahengi Baharen” (Kasme Vaade, 1978)
Amit became one of the most sought-after playback singers of the 1980s, often collaborating with music directors like R.D. Burman, Laxmikant–Pyarelal, and Anand–Milind.
Acting Career
Following in his father’s footsteps, Amit also acted in a few films like Door Ka Rahi (1971), Chalti Ka Naam Zindagi (1982), and Badhti Ka Naam Dadhi (1974). However, he focused more on singing than acting.
Stage Performances
Amit Kumar is also known for his live concerts in India and abroad, where he performs his father Kishore Kumar’s songs along with his own hits, keeping the family’s musical legacy alive.
Awards & Achievements
- Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer (Yaad Aa Rahi Hai, 1981).
- Numerous nominations and honors from the Bollywood music industry.
- Recognized for keeping Kishore Kumar’s legacy alive through concerts and tribute shows.
Personal Life
Amit Kumar is married to Reema Ganguly, and the couple has two daughters. Known for being private, he prefers to keep his personal life away from the media spotlight.
Legacy & Influence
Amit Kumar successfully balanced carrying forward Kishore Kumar’s legacy while making his own mark in Bollywood. His soulful renditions and versatile singing style made him one of the most popular singers of the 1980s and early 1990s. Even today, his live concerts attract fans across generations, keeping the golden era of Bollywood music alive.
FAQs
1. What was Amit Kumar’s debut song?
He first sang for Door Ka Rahi (1970), directed by his father Kishore Kumar.
2. Which is Amit Kumar’s most famous song?
Yaad Aa Rahi Hai from Love Story (1981).
3. Has Amit Kumar won any awards?
Yes, he won the Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer in 1981.
4. Did Amit Kumar also act in films?
Yes, he acted in a few films but primarily focused on singing.
5. Is Amit Kumar still active in music?
Yes, he continues to perform live shows and tribute concerts.
