Jagjit Singh Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Ghazals & Achievements
Introduction
Jagjit Singh, fondly remembered as the “Ghazal King of India”, was one of the most influential and soulful singers, composers, and music directors in Indian music history. With his rich, deep voice and ability to blend classical ghazals with modern music, he revolutionized the genre and brought it to the mainstream. Known for timeless ghazals like Hontho Se Chhoo Lo Tum, Tumko Dekha To Ye Khayal Aaya, and Jhuki Jhuki Si Nazar, he made poetry accessible to the common man while maintaining its elegance and depth. His partnership with his wife Chitra Singh further enriched the world of ghazals.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Jagjit Singh Dhiman
- Date of Birth: 8 February 1941
- Birthplace: Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, India
- Date of Death: 10 October 2011 (aged 70)
- Nationality: Indian
- Occupation: Ghazal Singer, Composer, Music Director
- Zodiac Sign: Aquarius
- Parents: Sardar Amar Singh Dhiman (father), Bachan Kaur (mother)
- Spouse: Chitra Singh (ghazal singer)
- Children: Vivek Singh (deceased), Monica (stepdaughter, deceased)
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 75 kg
- Hair Color: Black (later grey)
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Jagjit Singh was born into a middle-class Sikh family in Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan. His father, a government employee, encouraged him to study music. Jagjit was trained in Hindustani classical music under Pandit Chaganlal Sharma and later Ustad Jamal Khan, mastering ragas like Khayal, Thumri, and Dhrupad.
Though his family wished him to pursue engineering, Jagjit followed his passion for music and moved to Mumbai in the 1960s to seek opportunities in playback singing and composition.
Musical Journey & Career Highlights
Early Struggles
In his early years in Mumbai, Jagjit Singh struggled to find playback opportunities. He started singing jingles and small assignments before venturing into ghazals.
Rise to Fame
In 1969, Jagjit Singh married Chitra Singh, and together they formed a ghazal duo. Their album “The Unforgettable” (1977) marked a turning point, as it brought ghazals to a wider, younger audience with simpler compositions and relatable poetry.
Iconic Ghazals & Songs
- Hontho Se Chhoo Lo Tum (Prem Geet, 1981)
- Tum Itna Jo Muskura Rahe Ho (Arth, 1982)
- Jhuki Jhuki Si Nazar (Arth, 1982)
- Tumko Dekha To Ye Khayal Aaya (Saath Saath, 1982)
- Chitthi Na Koi Sandes
- Kagaz Ki Kashti
- Hazaron Khwahishen Aisi
Bollywood Contributions
Jagjit Singh also sang and composed for Hindi films such as Arth, Saath Saath, Prem Geet, and Sarfarosh, making ghazals more mainstream in Bollywood.
Social & Spiritual Music
He recorded numerous bhajans, Gurbani, and spiritual songs, including Hey Ram, which are cherished across generations.
Awards & Achievements
- Padma Bhushan (2003) – India’s third-highest civilian honor.
- Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1998).
- Multiple state and national awards for contribution to music.
- Credited with modernizing ghazals by introducing Western instruments and simple arrangements.
- His album “The Unforgettable” became one of the most successful non-film music albums in India.
Personal Life
Jagjit Singh married Chitra Singh in 1969. The couple performed together for decades and became one of the most iconic ghazal duos. Tragically, their son Vivek Singh died in a car accident in 1990, leading Chitra Singh to withdraw from singing. Jagjit continued his solo journey, carrying forward their legacy.
Death
Jagjit Singh passed away on 10 October 2011 in Mumbai due to a brain hemorrhage. His death left a void in the world of ghazals, and millions of fans mourned the loss of a legend.
Legacy & Influence
Jagjit Singh is remembered as the man who brought ghazals to the common man. By modernizing the traditional form with contemporary arrangements, he ensured the survival and popularity of the ghazal genre in modern India. His soulful renditions of Urdu poetry, combined with his deep baritone voice, made him a timeless icon whose music continues to heal and inspire listeners worldwide.
FAQs
1. What was Jagjit Singh’s most famous album?
The Unforgettable (1977), with Chitra Singh.
2. Which Bollywood films featured Jagjit Singh’s songs?
Films like Arth, Saath Saath, Prem Geet, and Sarfarosh.
3. Did Jagjit Singh receive a Padma Award?
Yes, he was honored with the Padma Bhushan in 2003.
4. Who was Jagjit Singh’s ghazal partner?
His wife, Chitra Singh.
5. What was Jagjit Singh’s biggest contribution to music?
He simplified ghazals with modern arrangements, making them accessible to mass audiences.
