Sonu Nigam, born on July 30, 1973, celebrates his 52nd birthday this year. A prominent figure in the Indian music industry, he's known for his versatile voice and extensive discography in Bollywood and Kannada cinema.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Sonu Nigam's musical journey began at a young age. He started singing at the age of four, joining his father, Agam Kumar Nigam, on stage to sing "Kya Hua Tera Wada" by Mohammad Rafi. He accompanied his father at weddings and parties, honing his skills. At 19, he moved to Mumbai to pursue a Bollywood singing career.

While many believe his first song was "O Aasmanwale" from the 1993 movie "Aaja Meri Jaan", Nigam actually recorded a song for the film "Janam" in 1990, which was never officially released. He also sang "Hum To Chhaila Ban Gaye" from DD1's TV serial "Talash" in 1992. His initial years involved singing in films like "Muqabla," "Meherbaan," and "Khuddar".

Breakthrough and Rise to Fame

Nigam's career gained momentum with the song "Accha Sila Diya" from the movie "Bewafa Sanam" in 1996. In 1997, he delivered two highly successful songs: "Sandese Aate Hai" from "Border" and "Yeh Dil Deewana" from "Pardes". His album "Deewana," released in 1999, further solidified his position in the industry.

From 1995 to 1999, Nigam hosted the popular music show "Sa Re Ga Ma Pa," which made him a household name. He also served as a judge on "Indian Idol".

Top Tracks and Musical Legacy

Sonu Nigam has recorded over 6,000 songs in more than 32 languages. Some of his most memorable songs include:

• "Kal Ho Naa Ho": The title track from the movie "Kal Ho Naa Ho".
• "Saathiya": The title track from the movie "Saathiya".
• "Abhi Mujh Mein Kahin": From the movie "Agneepath".
• "Do Pal": From the movie "Veer-Zaara".
• "Mere Haath Mein": From the movie "Fanaa".
• "Tumhi Dekho Na": From the movie "Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna".
• "Piyu Bole": From the movie "Parineeta".
• "Main Agar Kahoon": From the movie "Om Shanti Om".
• "Tanhayee": From the movie "Dil Chahta Hai".
• "Yeh Dil Deewana": From the movie "Pardes".
• "Satrangi Re": From the movie "Dil Se".
• "Sandese Aate Hai": From the movie "Border".

Nigam has also released numerous non-film albums and acted in Hindi films. He has received several awards, including a National Film Award, two Filmfare Awards, and two Filmfare Awards South. In 2022, he was honored with the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian award.

Sonu Nigam's contributions to music have earned him the title of "Modern Rafi". His ability to blend power and sensitivity in his voice has made him one of the most successful singers in the Indian music industry.

Recent News and Birthday Plans

To celebrate his 51st birthday in 2024, Sonu Nigam planned to watch a documentary about his Dubai concert experience, where he lost his voice before the show, with select fans in Mumbai. He also expressed that his birthday is usually an emotional and spiritual affair for him.