About
Having stepped behind the microphone at the tender age of 12 in 1996, Shreya Ghoshal’s illustrious career now spans nearly three decades. Since making her iconic playback debut in 2002, she has reigned over the industry, yet her voice remains as fresh and captivating as ever. For millions, she has been more than just a singer; she’s been the soundtrack to countless moments in their lives.
Known as the Voice of India, her songs transcend languages, genres, and generations, leaving a piece of her soul in every note. From heart-stopping film hits to tender romantic ballads, from devotional hymns to chart-topping pop, Shreya’s voice has become a constant, comforting presence across the country and beyond.
Her music doesn’t just play — it resonates. With over 50 million monthly listeners on Spotify and more than 500 million on YouTube, Shreya has touched hearts worldwide, earning recognition as the most-streamed Indian female artist from 2021 to 2024.
Career
A Journey Rooted in
Passion and Dedication
Shreya’s story began in childhood with classical music lessons at the age of four. Her talent and dedication soon blossomed into something extraordinary. Winning the reality show Sa Re Ga Ma opened the doors to her debut in the 2002 cinematic classic ‘Devdas’. Her very first songs, ‘Bairi Piya’ and ‘Dola Re Dola’, captured hearts immediately, earning her a historic sweep of debut honors:
- National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer
- Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer
- Filmfare R.D. Burman Award for New Music Talent
(alongside wins at the IIFA, Zee Cine, and Sansui Awards.)
Recalling the recording of Bairi Piya, Shreya once said, “I simply closed my eyes and sang without a break. When I opened them, I noticed all the excitement outside the recording room. Then Sanjay Ji told me they had recorded the song in one go because of how well I sang.” That magical moment set the tone for a career defined by both talent and authenticity.
Today, her influence transcends borders. As the first Indian artist to be named a Spotify EQUAL Global Ambassador, she continues to champion female equity in the music industry, with her presence lighting up billboards from Mumbai to New York’s Times Square.
Over the years, her dedication and artistry have been recognized with numerous awards:
- Five National Film Awards
- State Film Awards:
- Four Kerala State Film Awards
- Two Tamil Nadu State Film Awards
- Two Nandi Awards (Andhra Pradesh)
- One Gaddar Telangana Film Award
- Seventeen Filmfare Awards (Hindi & South)
- Twelve IIFA Awards (Hindi & South)
Recognition
A Global Voice,
A Personal Connection
Shreya’s voice has never been confined by borders. She has captivated audiences worldwide, performing at iconic venues like the Sydney Opera House, London’s Royal Albert Hall, and becoming the first Indian to perform at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, the home of the Oscars.
Her influence has even been celebrated officially: in 2010, the Governor of Ohio declared June 26 as ‘Shreya Ghoshal Day.’ In 2015, John Cranley, the Mayor of the City of Cincinnati, also honoured her by proclaiming July 24, 2015, as ‘Shreya Ghoshal Day of Entertainment and Inspiration’ in Cincinnati. During her 2024 ‘All Hearts Tour’ in the United States, the City of Austin, Texas, Mayor Kirk Watson proclaimed June 15, 2024, as “Shreya Ghoshal Day.”
Shreya’s presence extends beyond the stage. From Forbes India’s Celebrity 100 list to Asia’s Top 100 Digital Stars and even a wax figure at Madame Tussauds Delhi, her impact is felt both culturally and digitally. But beyond the accolades, it’s her ability to make every listener feel a personal connection through her songs that truly defines her.
