Sukhwinder Singh Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Songs & Achievements
Introduction
Sukhwinder Singh is an acclaimed Indian playback singer and live performer, best known for his energetic and soulful voice. Famous for the Oscar-winning track Jai Ho (Slumdog Millionaire), he has delivered some of the most powerful songs in Bollywood, including Chaiyya Chaiyya, Dard-E-Disco, Hud Hud Dabangg, and Kar Har Maidan Fateh. With a career spanning over three decades, Sukhwinder remains one of the most versatile and respected singers in India.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Sukhwinder Singh
- Date of Birth: 18 July 1971
- Birthplace: Amritsar, Punjab, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Occupation: Playback Singer, Live Performer
- Zodiac Sign: Cancer
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 72 kg
- Hair Color: Black
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Born in Amritsar, Punjab, Sukhwinder developed a passion for music from a very young age. Inspired by folk and Sufi traditions, as well as greats like Lata Mangeshkar and Mohammad Rafi, he started singing at local events. He later trained in music and performed on stage before making his entry into playback singing.
Musical Journey & Career Highlights
Early Career
Sukhwinder’s initial career had its share of struggles. Though he sang a few songs in the late 1980s, his big breakthrough came in the 1990s.
Bollywood Breakthrough
His career-defining moment arrived with “Chaiyya Chaiyya” (Dil Se, 1998), composed by A. R. Rahman. The song became a global sensation and established him as a powerhouse voice in Bollywood.
Iconic Songs
Some of his most famous tracks include:
- Chaiyya Chaiyya (Dil Se, 1998)
- Jai Ho (Slumdog Millionaire, 2008 – Oscar & Grammy-winning song)
- Dard-E-Disco (Om Shanti Om, 2007)
- Hud Hud Dabangg (Dabangg, 2010)
- Gallan Goodiyan (Dil Dhadakne Do, 2015, group performance)
- Kar Har Maidan Fateh (Sanju, 2018)
International Recognition
His rendition of Jai Ho won the Academy Award for Best Original Song (2009) and a Grammy Award, bringing Indian playback singing to the global stage.
Awards & Achievements
- Academy Award (Oscar, 2009) – Jai Ho (Slumdog Millionaire).
- Grammy Award (2009) – Best Song Written for a Motion Picture for Jai Ho.
- National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer (2014) – Bismil (Haider).
- Multiple IIFA, Filmfare, and Screen Awards.
- Recognized as one of the most versatile live performers in India.
Personal Life
Sukhwinder Singh keeps his personal life private. Known for his simplicity and dedication to music, he focuses on his performances and playback career. He continues to live a life devoted to his art and spiritual inspiration.
Legacy & Influence
Sukhwinder Singh’s legacy lies in his dynamic, powerful voice and ability to adapt to both soulful and high-energy tracks. His collaborations with A. R. Rahman and other leading composers have given Indian cinema some of its most iconic songs. From Bollywood blockbusters to global recognition with Jai Ho, Sukhwinder remains a symbol of passion and dedication in playback singing.
FAQs
1. What was Sukhwinder Singh’s breakthrough song?
Chaiyya Chaiyya from Dil Se (1998).
2. Which international awards has he won?
An Oscar and a Grammy for Jai Ho (Slumdog Millionaire).
3. Has Sukhwinder Singh won a National Award?
Yes, for Bismil (Haider, 2014).
4. Does Sukhwinder Singh perform live?
Yes, he is known as one of the most energetic live performers in India and abroad.
5. Which music director is he most associated with?
A. R. Rahman, though he has worked with almost every leading composer.
