As Neha Kakkar celebrates her 35th birthday, it’s appropriate to reflect on the incredible journey that has shaped her into one of India’s most beloved playback singers who has won several awards and nominations.
Her story is not just one of talent, but of perseverance, hard work and an unyielding spirit – a simple and ordinary girl who has made it big.
Born into a humble Punjabi family in Uttarakhand’s Rishikesh, Neha is the younger sister of playback singer Sonu Kakkar and singer-composer Tony Kakkar.
During the early days, her father Rishikesh Kakkar used to sell samosas outside a college for a living while her mother Niti was a homemaker.
The entire Kakkar family lived in a rented single room in the city.
From a young age, Neha’s life was full of challenges. Her family’s financial struggles meant that luxuries were few and far between. Despite the hardships, the Kakkar household was rich in one invaluable resource — music.
Neha’s parents recognised the innate musical talent in their children and encouraged them to pursue their passion.
In the early 90s, Neha along with her family moved to Delhi to try her luck in singing. At that time, the family was reeling under a financial crisis.
Hoping to contribute to the family, Neha started performing at devotional gatherings, known as jagratas, from the tender age of 4.
She and her siblings Tony and Sonu would perform bhajans and religious songs to make ends meet. She used to earn Rs 50 per jagrata.
Singing in jagratas boosted her confidence and helped in her training process.
In any case with musical talent at home, she didn’t need formal training in singing.
In 2004, she moved to Mumbai with her brother Tony. Two years later, at the age of 16, Neha auditioned for the second season of ‘Indian Idol’.
Being the youngest participant, she was pampered on the sets of the popular musical show. Although she didn’t win, her participation brought her into the limelight and showcased her immense talent to a national audience.
Her early days in Mumbai were filled with auditions and small gigs. The turning point in her career was the release of her debut album ‘Neha The Rock Star’, composed by Meet Bros. The album’s success opened doors for her in Bollywood.
Neha’s breakthrough in the film industry came with the song ‘Second Hand Jawaani’ from the movie ‘Cocktail’ in 2012. The popularity of that song cemented her place in Bollywood, leading to a series of hits like ‘Sunny Sunny’ from ‘Yaariyan’, ‘London Thumakda’ from ‘Queen’, and many more.
The superstar that we are celebrating today is a phenomenon.
After years of hardship, she achieved what she deserved, the smile never disappearing from her face. Though she often gets trolled for crying on shows, can people see the struggle she has endured? On the other hand, she sees her younger self in those who are struggling now.
We applaud not just her music, but the amazing journey that has made her the superstar she is today.
Happy birthday, Neha Kakkar! May your journey continue to inspire and your music continue to bring joy to countless hearts.
