Kumar Sanu Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Songs & Achievements
Introduction
Kumar Sanu is one of India’s most legendary playback singers, widely recognized as the “King of Melody” of the 1990s. With his silky, romantic voice, he became the defining male playback singer of Bollywood’s golden era of love songs. Known for timeless hits like Tujhe Dekha To, Mera Dil Bhi Kitna Pagal Hai, Chura Ke Dil Mera, and Dil Hai Ki Manta Nahin, Kumar Sanu has recorded thousands of songs across multiple languages. His Guinness World Record for recording 28 songs in a single day stands as a testament to his unmatched versatility and work ethic.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Kedarnath Bhattacharya (popularly known as Kumar Sanu)
- Date of Birth: 20 October 1957
- Birthplace: Kolkata, West Bengal, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Occupation: Playback Singer, Composer
- Zodiac Sign: Libra
- Parents: Pashupati Bhattacharya (father, classical singer & composer)
- Spouse: Saloni Sanu
- Children: Shannon K (singer), Jaan Kumar Sanu (singer), Ana
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 80 kg
- Hair Color: Black
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Kumar Sanu was born into a Bengali family in Kolkata. His father, Pashupati Bhattacharya, was a classically trained singer and composer, which gave Sanu an early musical foundation. Initially trained in classical music, he later moved to Mumbai in search of playback opportunities.
Musical Journey & Career Highlights
Early Struggles & Breakthrough
Sanu’s career took off after he was noticed by legendary music director Jagjit Singh, who gave him opportunities in films. His real breakthrough came when music duo Nadeem–Shravan chose him as their lead voice in the late 1980s.
Bollywood Stardom in the 1990s
Kumar Sanu dominated Bollywood music throughout the 1990s with romantic and soulful tracks. Some of his iconic hits include:
- Tujhe Dekha To (Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, 1995)
- Mera Dil Bhi Kitna Pagal Hai (Saajan, 1991)
- Dil Hai Ki Manta Nahin (Dil Hai Ki Manta Nahin, 1991)
- Chura Ke Dil Mera (Main Khiladi Tu Anari, 1994)
- Do Dil Mil Rahe Hain (Pardes, 1997)
- Ab Tere Bin Jee Lenge Hum (Aashiqui, 1990)
Guinness World Record
In 1993, Kumar Sanu created a world record by recording 28 songs in a single day, showcasing his incredible vocal stamina and discipline.
Other Works
Apart from Bollywood, Kumar Sanu has sung extensively in Bengali, Marathi, Assamese, Bhojpuri, Tamil, Telugu, and Gujarati. He also released several private albums and ghazals.
Awards & Achievements
- Padma Shri (2009) – India’s fourth-highest civilian award.
- 5 consecutive Filmfare Awards for Best Male Playback Singer (1990–1994) – a record in Bollywood.
- Guinness World Record for maximum songs recorded in a day (1993).
- Winner of multiple IIFA, Zee Cine, and Screen Awards.
- Honored by numerous state governments and cultural bodies.
Personal Life
Kumar Sanu married Saloni Sanu, and they have two daughters, Shannon K and Ana. His son, Jaan Kumar Sanu, has also pursued a singing career. Despite fame, Kumar Sanu is admired for his humility and philanthropic efforts, particularly in the field of child education.
Legacy & Influence
Kumar Sanu is remembered as the voice of romance in the 1990s. His duets with Alka Yagnik, Anuradha Paudwal, and Kavita Krishnamurthy defined an era of Bollywood music. His contribution to the Aashiqui (1990) soundtrack made it one of the most successful albums in Indian film history. Even today, his songs continue to be loved by fans across generations, cementing his place as one of the greatest playback singers of all time.
FAQs
1. What was Kumar Sanu’s debut Bollywood hit?
Jab Koi Baat Bigad Jaye (Jurm, 1990).
2. How many Filmfare Awards has Kumar Sanu won?
He won 5 consecutive Filmfare Awards for Best Male Playback Singer from 1990 to 1994.
3. Has Kumar Sanu received a Padma Award?
Yes, the Padma Shri in 2009.
4. Did Kumar Sanu create a world record?
Yes, he recorded 28 songs in a single day, earning a Guinness World Record.
5. Which music directors did he collaborate with most?
Primarily Nadeem–Shravan, Anu Malik, and Jatin–Lalit.
