This blog post will take you on a musical journey, celebrating the lives and legendary careers of India’s most iconic female singers across generations.
These talented women have engaged audiences nationwide and beyond with powerful vocals and soul-stirring melodies.
Get ready to discover the inspiring stories, unique styles, and unforgettable hits that have cemented these influential singers as forces to be reckoned with in the Indian music scene.
Their artistic brilliance will leave you spellbound.
Legendary Indian Female Singers
1. Lata Mangeshkar
Lata Mangeshkar is among the most renowned playback singers in the Indian music industry.
Her career spans over seven decades, during which she has recorded songs in over thirty-six regional Indian languages and foreign languages.
Lata’s voice has been the soundtrack to countless Indian films, earning her a revered place in the hearts of music lovers.
Her contributions have significantly shaped the Indian music industry, and she is celebrated for her versatility, passionate singing, and technical prowess.
Lata’s influence extends beyond music to the broader cultural fabric of India, making her an iconic figure.
- Famous songs: “Lag Ja Gale,” “Ajeeb Dastan Hai Yeh,” “Tere Bina Zindagi Se”
- Awards: Bharat Ratna, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, Dadasaheb Phalke Award
- Years Active: 1942–present
2. Asha Bhosle
Asha Bhosle, Lata Mangeshkar’s younger sister, has made an indelible mark on the Indian music industry.
Known for her versatility, Asha has sung in various genres, including classical music, pop, and contemporary Bollywood tracks.
She has recorded thousands of songs in multiple languages, making her one of the most recorded artists in music history.
Asha’s lively and energetic singing style has brought her fame and recognition worldwide, and she continues to inspire new generations of singers.
- Famous songs: “Dum Maro Dum,” “Piya Tu Ab To Aaja,” “Chura Liya Hai Tumne Jo Dil Ko”
- Awards: Padma Vibhushan, Dadasaheb Phalke Award, National Film Awards
- Years Active: 1943–present
3. Geeta Dutt
Geeta Dutt was a prominent playback singer in the Hindi film industry during the 1940s and 1950s.
Known for her soulful voice and emotional depth, her songs often touched listeners’ hearts.
She was particularly known for her renditions in films directed by Guru Dutt, her husband.
Geeta’s ability to convey deep emotion and unique vocal style has left a lasting legacy in Indian music.
- Famous songs: “Mera Sundar Sapna Beet Gaya,” “Waqt Ne Kiya Kya Haseen Sitam,” “Babuji Dheere Chalna”
- Awards: N/A
- Years Active: 1946–1971
4. Shamshad Begum
Shamshad Begum, who started her career in the 1940s, was one of the first playback singers in the Hindi film industry.
Her rich and powerful voice made her a favorite for composers and audiences.
Shamshad sang numerous hit songs in various Indian languages and was known for her distinct and robust vocal style.
Her contributions to Indian music laid the groundwork for future generations of playback singers.
- Famous songs: “Mere Piya Gaye Rangoon,” “Kabhi Aar Kabhi Paar,” “Kajra Mohabbat Wala”
- Awards: Padma Bhushan
- Years Active: 1937–1970
5. Suraiya
Suraiya was a popular actress and playback singer in the 1940s and 1950s.
Her career as a singer and actress made her a beloved figure in the Indian film industry.
Known for her melodic voice and graceful screen presence, Suraiya’s songs often reflected the emotions of her on-screen characters.
Her dual talents brought her immense popularity and left a lasting impact on Indian cinema and music.
- Famous songs: “Tu Mera Chand,” “Woh Paas Rahe,” “Man Mor Hua Matwala”
- Awards: N/A
- Years Active: 1936–1963
6. Noor Jehan
Noor Jehan, the Queen of Melody, was a highly influential playback singer and actress in Indian and Pakistani cinema.
Her career spanned over six decades, during which she sang thousands of songs in various languages.
Noor Jehan’s powerful voice and dynamic singing style made her a legendary figure in the music industry.
She played a significant role in popularizing film music in the Indian subcontinent.
- Famous songs: “Awaaz De Kahaan Hai,” “Jawan Hai Mohabbat,” “Chandni Raatein”
- Awards: Sitara-i-Imtiaz, Tamgha-e-Imtiaz
- Years Active: 1930–1997
7. Suman Kalyanpur
Suman Kalyanpur is a noted playback singer known for her work in Hindi and Marathi films.
Often compared to Lata Mangeshkar, Suman carved out her own niche in the music industry with her sweet and melodic voice.
She has recorded many popular songs and worked with top composers.
Despite her immense talent, she maintained a low profile, which added to her unique charm.
- Famous songs: “Na Tum Hamen Jano,” “Mere Mehboob Na Ja,” “Aaj Kal Tere Mere Pyaar Ke Charche”
- Awards: Sur Singar Samsad Award
- Years Active: 1954–1986
8. Vani Jairam
Vani Jairam is a celebrated playback singer who has worked in various Indian languages, including Tamil, Hindi, and Telugu.
Known for her versatility and classical music training, Vani’s songs have won her acclaim and numerous awards.
Her ability to sing complex compositions with ease made her a favorite among composers and audiences alike.
Vani’s contributions to Indian music continue to be celebrated.
- Famous songs: “Bole Re Papihara,” “Humko Mann Ki Shakti Dena,” “Ezhu Swarangalukkul”
- Awards: Padma Bhushan, National Film Awards
- Years Active: 1971–present
9. Hemlata
Hemlata is a versatile playback singer known for her work in Hindi cinema.
She gained fame in the 1970s and 1980s with her melodious voice and emotive singing style.
Hemlata’s songs are often featured in films with music by Ravindra Jain, and she became known for her devotional and romantic songs.
Her contribution to Indian music has earned her a special place in the hearts of listeners.
- Famous songs: “Ankhiyon Ke Jharokhon Se,” “Le To Aaye Ho Hamen,” “Tu Is Tarah Se Meri Zindagi”
- Awards: Filmfare Award
- Years Active: 1968–present
10. Alka Yagnik
Alka Yagnik is one of the most successful playback singers in Bollywood, known for her versatile voice and wide range of songs.
Her career took off in the late 1980s, and she has since recorded thousands of songs in various languages.
Alka’s ability to sing different genres, from romantic ballads to upbeat dance numbers, has made her a favorite among composers and fans.
Her contribution to Indian cinema and music is immense.
- Famous songs: “Ek Do Teen,” “Choli Ke Peeche,” “Taal Se Taal Mila”
- Awards: National Film Awards, Filmfare Awards
- Years Active: 1980–present
11. Kavita Krishnamurthy
Kavita Krishnamurthy is an acclaimed playback singer known for her versatility and technical prowess.
She has sung in various Indian languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and others.
Kavita’s career began in the late 1970s, and she gained prominence in the 1980s and 1990s with her powerful voice and ability to handle complex compositions.
Her collaborations with notable composers like R.D. Burman, Laxmikant-Pyarelal, and A.R. Rahman have resulted in some of the most memorable songs in Indian cinema.
- Famous songs: “Hawa Hawai,” “Pyar Hua Chupke Se,” “Aaj Main Upar”
- Awards: Padma Shri, National Film Awards, Filmfare Awards
- Years Active: 1978–present
12. Anuradha Paudwal
Anuradha Paudwal is a prominent playback singer known for her work in Bollywood and devotional music.
Her career took off in the 1980s and 1990s, during which she sang numerous hit songs for top Bollywood films.
Anuradha’s melodious voice and expressive singing made her a favorite among audiences and composers.
Besides film music, she has also released many successful devotional albums, cementing her place as a versatile singer.
- Famous songs: “Dhak Dhak Karne Laga,” “Mera Piya Ghar Aaya,” “Bahut Pyar Karte Hai”
- Awards: Padma Shri, National Film Award, Filmfare Awards
- Years Active: 1973–present
13. Chitra
Chitra, also known as K.S. Chithra, is a highly respected playback singer in the Indian music industry.
With a career of over four decades, she has recorded thousands of songs in various languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi.
Chitra’s classical training and versatile voice have earned her numerous awards and accolades.
She is particularly known for her soulful renditions and ability to convey deep emotions through her singing.
- Famous songs: “Kannalanae,” “Kehna Hi Kya,” “O Priya Priya”
- Awards: Padma Bhushan, National Film Awards, Filmfare Awards
- Years Active: 1979–present
14. S. Janaki
S. Janaki, often called the Nightingale of South India, is a legendary playback singer with an illustrious career spanning over five decades.
Known for her versatile voice and expressive singing, Janaki has sung thousands of songs in various Indian languages.
Her ability to adapt to different genres and styles has made her a favorite among composers and audiences.
She has worked with top composers and has left a lasting legacy in Indian music.
- Famous songs: “Senthoora Poove,” “Poomaalai Vaangi Vanthaan,” “Singaravelane Deva”
- Awards: Padma Bhushan, National Film Awards, Filmfare Awards
- Years Active: 1957–present
15. Usha Uthup
Usha Uthup is a unique and celebrated playback singer known for her distinctive voice and energetic performances.
Her career began in the 1960s, and she has sung in numerous Indian languages and English.
She is particularly known for her contributions to pop and jazz music in India.
Usha’s powerful voice and charismatic stage presence have made her a popular figure in the music industry, and she continues to be an influential artist.
- Famous songs: “Darling,” “Hari Om Hari,” “Rambha Ho”
- Awards: Padma Shri
- Years Active: 1969–present
16. Bombay Jayashri
Bombay Jayashri is a renowned Carnatic vocalist and playback singer known for her soulful and expressive singing.
With a strong foundation in classical music, she has captivated audiences with her performances in various languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi.
Jayashri’s contributions to Indian music have earned her numerous accolades, and she continues to inspire with her dedication to the art form.
- Famous songs: “Zara Zara,” “Vaseegara,” “Ninaivugal”
- Awards: Padma Shri, Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer
- Years Active: 1982–present
17. Sadhana Sargam
Sadhana Sargam is a renowned playback singer known for her melodious voice and versatility.
She has sung in various Indian languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, and Gujarati.
Sadhana’s career began in the 1980s and has since recorded numerous hit songs.
Her ability to adapt to different musical styles has made her a favorite among composers and audiences.
She continues to be a prominent figure in the Indian music industry.
- Famous songs: “Pehla Nasha,” “Tera Mera Saath Rahe,” “Saat Samundar Paar”
- Awards: National Film Award, Filmfare Awards
- Years Active: 1982–present
18. Sujatha Mohan
Sujatha Mohan is a celebrated playback singer known for her work in the South Indian film industry.
With a career spanning several decades, she has recorded thousands of songs in Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu, and Kannada.
Sujatha’s melodious voice and expressive singing have made her a favorite among audiences and composers.
She has collaborated with many top music directors and is an influential figure in Indian music.
- Famous songs: “Pudhu Vellai Mazhai,” “Kaadhal Rojave,” “Minsara Kanna”
- Awards: Kerala State Film Awards, Tamil Nadu State Film Awards
- Years Active: 1974–present
19. Shreya Ghoshal
She gained national recognition with her debut in “Devdas” and has since become a leading voice in Bollywood and regional films.
Shreya’s melodious voice, versatility, and ability to convey deep emotions have earned her numerous awards and accolades.
She continues to be a dominant force in the music industry, delighting audiences with her soulful renditions.
- Famous songs: “Dola Re Dola,” “Teri Ore,” “Deewani Mastani”
- Awards: National Film Awards, Filmfare Awards, IIFA Awards
- Years Active: 2002–present
20. Sunidhi Chauhan
Sunidhi Chauhan is a dynamic playback singer known for her powerful voice and energetic performances.
She started her career at a young age and quickly rose to prominence with her versatile singing style.
Sunidhi has recorded songs in various genres, from romantic ballads to high-energy dance tracks.
Her contributions to Bollywood and regional cinema have made her one of the most sought-after singers in the industry.
- Famous songs: “Sheila Ki Jawani,” “Kamli,” “Desi Girl”
- Awards: Filmfare Awards, IIFA Awards
- Years Active: 1996–present
21. Anuradha Sriram
Anuradha Sriram is a distinguished playback singer in the South Indian music industry, known for her classical training and versatile voice.
With a background in Carnatic music, she has seamlessly transitioned into film music, delivering memorable songs across various languages.
Anuradha’s ability to blend classical nuances with contemporary styles has made her a sought-after singer in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam cinema.
- Famous songs: “Acham Acham Illai,” “Nalam Nalam Ariyaaval,” “Appadi Podu”
- Awards: Tamil Nadu State Film Awards
- Years Active: 1995–present
22. Mahalakshmi Iyer
Mahalakshmi Iyer is a talented playback singer known for her work in Bollywood and regional cinema.
Her melodious voice and versatility have made her a favorite among composers and audiences.
She has sung in various Indian languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, and Bengali.
Mahalakshmi’s ability to adapt to different musical styles has earned her a significant place in the music industry.
- Famous songs: “Kabhi Sham Dhale,” “Har Taraf Har Jagah,” “Chupke Se”
- Awards: Zee Cine Awards
- Years Active: 1997–present
23. Neeti Mohan
Neeti Mohan is a popular playback singer and performer known for her dynamic voice and energetic stage presence.
She rose to fame as one of the winners of the reality show “Popstars” and later as a member of the pop group Aasma.
Neeti’s transition to playback singing has been marked by several hit songs in Bollywood.
Her versatile voice and ability to sing across genres have made her a prominent figure in the music industry.
- Famous songs: “Jiya Re,” “Ishq Wala Love,” “Tune Maari Entriyaan”
- Awards: Filmfare Awards
- Years Active: 2012–present
24. Monali Thakur
Monali Thakur is a celebrated playback singer and actress known for her melodious voice and vibrant singing.
She gained recognition by participating in the reality show “Indian Idol” and quickly established herself in Bollywood with several hit songs.
Monali’s ability to convey deep emotions through her voice has made her a favorite among music directors and listeners.
- Famous songs: “Sawaar Loon,” “Moh Moh Ke Dhaage,” “Zara Zara Touch Me”
- Awards: National Film Award, Filmfare Awards
- Years Active: 2006–present
25. Neha Kakkar
Neha Kakkar is one of the most popular playback singers in contemporary Indian music, known for her energetic voice and chart-topping hits.
She started her career as a contestant on the reality show “Indian Idol” and quickly gained popularity for her unique singing style.
Neha’s ability to deliver catchy and upbeat songs has made her a favorite in Bollywood and among younger audiences.
- Famous songs: “Sunny Sunny,” “Kar Gayi Chull,” “Aankh Marey”
- Awards: Filmfare Awards
- Years Active: 2006–present
26. Shilpa Rao
Shilpa Rao is a renowned playback singer with a deep and soulful voice.
She began her career with jingles and quickly moved to Bollywood, where she delivered several memorable songs.
Shilpa’s ability to convey emotions and distinctive vocal style have made her a sought-after singer.
Her collaborations with top music directors have resulted in numerous hit songs.
- Famous songs: “Khuda Jaane,” “Manmarziyan,” “Bulleya”
- Awards: Filmfare Awards
- Years Active: 2007–present
27. Shalmali Kholgade
Shalmali Kholgade is a talented playback singer and performer known for her versatile voice and energetic performances.
She debuted in Bollywood with the hit song “Pareshaan” and quickly became a popular choice for music directors.
Shalmali’s ability to sing across genres, from romantic ballads to peppy dance numbers, has made her a prominent figure in the Indian music industry.
- Famous songs: “Pareshaan,” “Balam Pichkari,” “Lat Lag Gayee.”
- Awards: Filmfare Awards
- Years Active: 2012–present
28. Palak Muchhal
Palak Muchhal is a renowned playback singer known for her melodious voice and philanthropic work.
She started singing at a young age and has delivered numerous hit songs in Bollywood.
Palak is also known for her charitable initiatives, using her singing talent to raise funds for heart surgeries for children.
Her contributions to music and society have earned her widespread recognition.
- Famous songs: “Chahun Main Ya Naa,” “Teri Meri Kahaani,” “Prem Ratan Dhan Payo”
- Awards: Zee Cine Awards
- Years Active: 2011–present
29. Aditi Singh Sharma
Aditi Singh Sharma is a prominent playback singer known for her powerful voice and versatile singing style.
She debuted her Bollywood with the film “Dev.D” and has since delivered several popular songs.
Aditi’s ability to adapt to different musical genres, from rock to romantic ballads, has made her a favorite among composers and listeners.
- Famous songs: “Offo,” “Sooraj Dooba Hain,” “Dhoom Machale”
- Awards: N/A
- Years Active: 2009–present
30. Rekha Bharadwaj
Rekha Bharadwaj is a distinguished playback singer known for her distinctive voice and vibrant singing.
With a background in Indian classical music, she has delivered several memorable songs in Bollywood.
Rekha’s ability to convey deep emotions through her voice has made her a favorite among music directors and audiences.
Her collaborations with her husband, composer Vishal Bhardwaj, have resulted in some of the most soulful songs in Indian cinema.
- Famous songs: “Namak Ishq Ka,” “Sasural Genda Phool,” “Kabira”
- Awards: National Film Award, Filmfare Awards
- Years Active: 1997–present
31. Harshdeep Kaur
Harshdeep Kaur is a renowned playback singer with a soulful and powerful voice.
She gained popularity with her performances in Bollywood and Sufi music.
Harshdeep’s singing ability to convey deep emotions has made her a favorite among composers and audiences.
Her versatility allows her to sing across various genres, including traditional and contemporary music.
- Famous songs: “Katiya Karoon,” “Heer,” “Ik Onkar”
- Awards: IIFA Award, Filmfare Awards
- Years Active: 2003–present
32. Shweta Pandit
Shweta Pandit is a talented playback singer and performer known for her melodious voice.
She began her singing career young and has worked in various Indian languages, including Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu.
Shweta’s versatility and ability to adapt to different musical styles have made her a popular choice among composers.
- Famous songs: “Thug Le,” “Madhubala,” “Aankhein Khuli”
- Awards: Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer (Tamil)
- Years Active: 2000–present
33. Akriti Kakar
Akriti Kakar is a versatile playback singer known for her work in Bollywood and pop music.
Her unique voice stands out in various genres, from romantic ballads to upbeat dance numbers.
Akriti’s energetic performances and vocal prowess have made her a favorite among audiences and music directors.
- Famous songs: “Saturday Saturday,” “Iski Uski,” “Khuda Ya Khair”
- Awards: N/A
- Years Active: 2004–present
34. Richa Sharma
Richa Sharma is a prominent playback singer known for her powerful voice and traditional Indian music style.
She has significantly contributed to Bollywood music with her emotive singing and ability to handle complex compositions.
Richa’s classical training and versatility have earned her a special place in the Indian music industry.
- Famous songs: “Zor Ka Jhatka,” “Sajda,” “Billu Barber”
- Awards: Mirchi Music Award for Female Vocalist of The Year
- Years Active: 1994–present
35. Sona Mohapatra
Sona Mohapatra is a talented playback singer and music composer known for her distinctive voice and bold music style.
She has significantly impacted the Indian music industry with her unique singing style and powerful performances.
Sona is known for her work in Bollywood and her independent music projects.
- Famous songs: “Ambarsariya,” “Jiya Laage Na,” “Bedardi Raja”
- Awards: N/A
- Years Active: 2006–present
36. Neha Bhasin
Neha Bhasin is a celebrated playback singer and performer known for her versatile voice and energetic stage presence.
She gained fame as a member of the pop group Viva and later transitioned into playback singing.
Neha’s ability to sing across genres has made her a prominent figure in the Indian music industry.
- Famous songs: “Jag Ghoomeya,” “Dhunki,” “Swag Se Swagat”
- Awards: Filmfare Award
- Years Active: 2002–present
37. Kanika Kapoor
Kanika Kapoor is a popular playback singer known for her unique voice and hit Bollywood songs.
Her debut song, “Baby Doll,” gained widespread recognition and became an instant hit.
Kanika’s ability to deliver catchy and upbeat songs has made her a favorite among music directors and audiences.
- Famous songs: “Baby Doll,” “Chittiyaan Kalaiyaan,” “Lovely”
- Awards: Filmfare Award
- Years Active: 2012–present
38. Anupama Deshpande
Anupama Deshpande is a talented playback singer who gained recognition in the 1980s and 1990s.
Known for her versatile voice, she has contributed to various Indian films across different languages.
Anupama’s ability to sing many songs, from romantic melodies to devotional tracks, has made her a beloved figure in the music industry.
Her dedication and passion for music are evident in her performances, leaving a lasting impact on her audience.
39. Tulsi Kumar
She has sung numerous hit songs in Bollywood and has worked with top composers.
Tulsi’s ability to adapt to different musical styles has made her a favorite among audiences and music directors.
- Famous songs: “Tum Jo Aaye,” “Soch Na Sake,” “Paniyon Sa”
- Awards: IIFA Award, Mirchi Music Award
- Years Active: 2006–present
40. Asees Kaur
Asees Kaur is a rising playback singer known for her melodious voice and soulful renditions.
She gained recognition for her performances in various Bollywood songs.
Asees’s singing ability to convey deep emotions has made her a favorite among music directors and listeners.
- Famous songs: “Bolna,” “Ve Maahi,” “Makhna”
- Awards: Filmfare Award
- Years Active: 2014–present
Conclusion
Exploring the incredible journeys of these 40 iconic Indian female singers, one thing is clear—their immense talent, passion, and ability to stir emotions through their art are unparalleled.
Their powerful voices have soundtracked our lives, cultures, and experiences, from veteran playback legends to modern trailblazers.
As you reflect on their stories and musical genius, ask yourself – which of these singers’ styles resonated most with you? Whose skills left you in awe?
Share your thoughts and favorite tracks in the comments below.
And if you found this glimpse into India’s rich musical heritage inspiring, check out our detailed profiles on the all-time greatest Bollywood playback singers.
Their legendary careers are a treatise in artistry.
