Hariharan Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Songs & Achievements
Introduction
Hariharan is a legendary Indian playback singer and ghazal artist, admired for his soulful voice, flawless diction, and mastery of both classical and contemporary music. With a career spanning more than four decades, he has sung in over 10 languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, Telugu, and Marathi. Known for hits like Tu Hi Re (Bombay), Bharat Humko Jaan Se Pyaara Hai (Roja), and his ghazal albums like Colonial Cousins (with Leslie Lewis), Hariharan is celebrated as one of India’s most versatile and accomplished singers.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Hariharan Anantha Subramani
- Stage Name: Hariharan
- Date of Birth: 3 April 1955
- Birthplace: Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Occupation: Playback Singer, Ghazal Singer, Composer
- Zodiac Sign: Aries
- Parents: Anantha Subramani (father, Carnatic musician), Alamelu (mother, Carnatic vocalist)
- Spouse: Lalitha Hariharan
- Children: Akshay Hariharan, Karan Hariharan (both musicians)
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 75 kg
- Hair Color: Black (now salt-and-pepper)
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Hariharan was born into a musically gifted Tamil Iyer family. His father, Anantha Subramani, and his mother, Alamelu, were both Carnatic vocalists, which gave him a strong musical foundation from an early age. He trained in Carnatic music and later explored Hindustani classical under Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan.
Musical Journey & Career Highlights
Early Career
Hariharan began his playback journey in the late 1970s. His debut song in Hindi films came with Aandhi-Toofan (1985), but his career breakthrough came with A. R. Rahman in the 1990s.
Bollywood Playback Singing
Hariharan became a household name with his soulful songs:
- Tu Hi Re (Bombay, 1995, with Kavita Krishnamurthy)
- Bharat Humko Jaan Se Pyaara Hai (Roja, 1992)
- Chanda Re (Sapnay, 1997)
- Baahon Ke Darmiyan (Khamoshi: The Musical, 1996, with Alka Yagnik)
- Roja Jaaneman (Roja, 1992)
- Kabhi Kabhi Aditi (guest background vocals, Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na, 2008)
Ghazals & Independent Music
Hariharan is one of India’s finest ghazal singers, with popular albums like Hazir, Reflections, and Kaash. His ability to blend classical intricacies with modern arrangements won him critical acclaim.
Colonial Cousins
In 1996, Hariharan teamed up with Leslie Lewis to form Colonial Cousins, a fusion band that gained international recognition. Their debut album won the MTV Asia Viewers’ Choice Award, making them the first Indian act to receive it.
Regional Cinema
Hariharan has sung extensively in South Indian cinema, particularly Tamil and Malayalam films, collaborating with legends like Ilaiyaraaja and A. R. Rahman.
Awards & Achievements
- Padma Shri (2004) – India’s fourth-highest civilian award.
- National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer (1998) – Mere Dushman Mere Bhai (Border).
- National Film Award (2009) – Jiv Dangla Gungla Rangla (Marathi film).
- Filmfare Awards (South) for playback singing.
- Winner of MTV Asia Awards and multiple music honors.
Personal Life
Hariharan is married to Lalitha Hariharan, and the couple has two sons, Akshay and Karan Hariharan, who are also musicians. Despite his fame, Hariharan is known for his humility, deep spirituality, and passion for teaching music.
Legacy & Influence
Hariharan’s legacy lies in his fusion of classical depth with modern melodies. From Bollywood chartbusters to ghazals and global fusion, his music transcends genres. His collaborations with A. R. Rahman redefined playback singing in the 1990s, while his independent work made him a pioneer in world music. He continues to be an inspiration for aspiring singers who aim to balance versatility with classical rigor.
FAQs
1. What was Hariharan’s breakthrough Bollywood song?
Tu Hi Re from Bombay (1995).
2. Has Hariharan received a Padma award?
Yes, he was awarded the Padma Shri in 2004.
3. Did Hariharan form a band?
Yes, Colonial Cousins, with Leslie Lewis.
4. How many National Awards has he won?
Two National Film Awards for playback singing.
5. Does Hariharan also sing ghazals?
Yes, he is one of India’s most respected ghazal artists.
