10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
1. SATWINDER BITTI
Satwinder Bitti, born on November 29, 1975, is a renowned Punjabi singer from Punjab, India. She gained fame for her albums like “Pure Dee Hawa,” “Dil De Mareez,” and “Khand Da Khedna.” Bitti’s musical journey began early, influenced by her father’s love for music. Interestingly, she was also a national-level hockey player before dedicating herself to singing. In 2011, she served as a judge on the singing reality show “Awaaz Punjab Di” aired on the Punjabi TV channel mh1.
2. GURMEET BAWA
Gurmeet Bawa, born on February 18, 1944, was an Indian Punjabi folk singer. She was renowned for her remarkable ability to hold a single breath while singing, a feat she could sustain for about 45 seconds. This earned her the title “Lambi hek di malika” (Queen of singing in an extended breath). Gurmeet Bawa was the first Punjabi female singer to perform on Indian public service broadcaster Doordarshan. She left a lasting impact on the world of Punjabi music and culture. Sadly, she passed away on November 21, 2021, in Amritsar, India, at the age of 77.
3. JASPINDER NARULA
Jaspinder Narula, born on November 14, 1970, is an accomplished Indian playback singer known for her work in Hindi and Punjabi cinema. She gained fame with the duet “Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha” alongside Remo Fernandes from the 1998 film Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha, for which she won the 1999 Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer. Besides film songs, Jaspinder Narula has also made a mark in Sufi music, Gurbani, and other Sikh religious compositions. Her melodious voice has graced numerous successful Bollywood films, including Mission Kashmir, Mohabbatein, and Bunty Aur Babli .
4. SURINDER KAUR
Surinder Kaur (25 November 1929 – 14 June 2006) was an Indian singer and songwriter. She is primarily known for her contributions to Punjabi music, particularly folk songs. Often referred to as the “Nightingale of Punjab,” Kaur played a pivotal role in pioneering and popularizing Punjabi folk music. Her repertoire included Punjabi Sufi Kafis by Bulleh Shah and verses from contemporary poets like Nand Lal Noorpuri, Amrita Pritam, Mohan Singh, and Shiv Kumar Batalvi. Some of her memorable songs include “Maavan ‘te dheean,” “Jutti kasuri,” “Madhaniyan,” “Ehna akhiyan ‘ch pavan kiven kajra,” “Ghaman di raat,” and “Bajre da sitta.” Additionally, her wedding songs, such as “Lathe di chadar,” “Suhe ve cheere waleya,” and “Kaala doria,” have become integral to Punjabi culture.
5. PRAKASH KAUR
Prakash Kaur, also known as Parkash Kaur, was a renowned Punjabi singer. Born on September 19, 1919, in Lahore (which was part of British India at the time), she hailed from a Punjabi-Sikh family. Prakash Kaur is best known for her Punjabi folk songs and her efforts to innovate within the genre. Alongside her sister Surinder Kaur, she played a significant role in popularizing Punjabi folk music. Kaur’s music was in high demand, especially in metropolitan Delhi and the surrounding regions.
6. AMAR NOORIE
Amar Noorie, also spelled as Amar Noori, is an Indian singer and actress known for her work in Punjabi-language films. She was married to the noted Punjabi singer Sardool Sikander1. Noorie began her professional singing career at the tender age of 9, collaborating with Punjabi singer Didar Sandhu in 1981. She made her first recording when she was just 13 years old. In 1986,
she met Sardool Sikander, and they started singing together before eventually getting married. Noorie also ventured into acting and played lead roles in several Punjabi films. Her debut acting role came in 1988 in the landmark TV series “Eho Hamara Jeevna,” directed by Gurbir Singh Grewal. Some of her notable films include “Jee Aayan Nu,” “Dil Apna Punjabi,” and “Mel Karade Rabba.
Amar Noorie is a renowned Punjabi singer and actress, celebrated for her contributions to both the Punjabi music and film industries. Born in the 1960s in Rupnagar (Ropar), Punjab, she grew up with a passion for music, nurtured from a young age through her exposure to traditional Punjabi folk songs and classical music. Over the years, she has carved a significant place for herself in the Punjabi entertainment world, alongside her husband and legendary singer Harbhajan Mann, with whom she has often collaborated.
Amar Noorie’s interest in music was evident from an early age. She began her journey in the music industry when she was just a teenager, starting her professional career at the age of nine. Her talent in classical music and folk Punjabi songs quickly garnered attention. She learned music formally and honed her skills in singing, ensuring that she had a strong foundation in various musical styles. By her twenties, she was performing in live shows and earning a name in the Punjabi music scene.
7. RANJIT KAUR
Ranjit Kaur, also spelled as Ranjeet Kaur, is a renowned Punjabi singer from Indian Punjab. She is best known for her captivating duets with Muhammad Sadiq, another notable Punjabi singer and politician. Ranjit Kaur’s melodious voice graced many Punjabi films as a playback singer, and she also appeared in some films as a side-actress.
8. JASWINDER BRAR
Jaswinder Brar is an Indian folk singer who sings in Punjabi language. She is known as the Folk Queen and has made a significant impact in the world of Punjabi music. Let me share some interesting details about her:
- Career Start: Jaswinder Brar began her musical journey with the album titled “Keemti Cheez” in 1990. Since then, she has continued to captivate audiences with her soulful voice and energetic performances.
- Genre: She specializes in Punjabi folk and Bhangra music, which are deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of Punjab.
- Stage Shows: Known for her dynamic stage presence, Jaswinder Brar is often referred to as “Akharheya Di Rani” (the queen of lyrics). Her live performances are a treat for music enthusiasts.
- Lok Tatths: Jaswinder Brar is especially recognized for her “Lok Tatths,” traditional Punjabi songs that resonate with the heart and soul of the region.
- Awards and Honors: She has received several accolades, including the “Shromani Punjabi Lok Gaaiki Award 2010.” Additionally, she was nominated for the PTC Channel Punjabi Music Awards in 2006 and awarded as the best folk vocalist female.
- Discography: Over the years, Jaswinder Brar has released multiple albums, each contributing to her legacy. Some of her notable albums include “Khulla Akharha,” “Gallaan Pyar Dian,” and “Jeonde Rehn.”
9. AMRITA VIRK
Amrita Virk, also known as ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤਾ ਵਿਰਕ in Punjabi, is a talented Punjabi singer hailing from Indian Punjab. She made her debut in the Punjabi music scene in 1998 with her first album, “Kalli Beh Ke Ro Laini Aan” . Since then, she has released an impressive 56 albums, showcasing her versatility and contributing significantly to the music industry. Some of her notable albums include “Saada Pai Gia Vichhora,” “Masti Bharia Akhara,” and “Pai Na Jaan Puaare” . Amrita Virk’s soulful voice and captivating melodies have left a lasting impact on Punjabi music enthusiasts worldwide.
10. MISS POOJA
Miss Pooja, whose birth name is Gurinder Kaur Kainth, is an Indian singer and actress known for her work in Punjabi music. She primarily sings in Bhangra, Pop, and Folk genres1. Often referred to as “The Queen of Duets,” she has collaborated with numerous male singers and gained international success with her album titled “Queen of Duets”. Miss Pooja has released several hit songs and albums, contributing significantly to the Punjabi music industry.
Miss Pooja is one of the most prominent and successful singers in the Punjabi music industry. Born as Gurinder Kaur Kainth on December 4, 1980, in Rajpura, Punjab, India, Miss Pooja is often referred to as the “Queen of Duets” due to her dominance in duet songs. She revolutionized the Punjabi music scene, especially in the early 2000s, with her distinctive voice and style, quickly becoming a household name not only in Punjab but across the globe, wherever Punjabi music is cherished.
Early Life and Education
Miss Pooja hails from a middle-class Sikh family. From a young age, she showed a keen interest in music and singing. She pursued her early education in Rajpura and later completed a Bachelor of Arts in Vocal and Instrumental Music and a B.Ed. (Bachelor of Education). Before diving into her music career, Miss Pooja worked as a music teacher, a testament to her formal training and deep understanding of music theory and practice.
Entry into Punjabi Music Industry
Miss Pooja entered the Punjabi music scene in 2006 with her debut duet song “Jaan Ton Piyari” alongside singer Darshan Khella. The song became an instant hit, marking her arrival in the industry. This was a time when duet songs were popular in Punjabi music, but there were only a few female singers who consistently performed duets with male counterparts. Miss Pooja’s unique voice, bubbly personality, and infectious energy made her an instant favorite among audiences, especially in rural Punjab.
Over the years, Miss Pooja collaborated with several male singers, including Geeta Zaildar, Harjit Harman, and Sharry Mann, delivering numerous chart-topping hits. Her consistency in releasing hit duets earned her the title of “Queen of Duets.” Her music videos, often showcasing traditional Punjabi attire and settings, further cemented her popularity.
Rise to Fame
Miss Pooja’s music blends traditional Punjabi folk elements with modern beats, making her songs relatable to both rural and urban audiences. Some of her most popular songs include “Chhankata,” “Seeti Maar Ke,” “Pasand,” and “Pardesiya.” She released her debut solo album, “Romantic Jatt,” which was also a commercial success, allowing her to break out from being a duet singer and establish herself as a versatile solo artist.
Her songs usually revolve around themes of love, relationships, heartbreak, and celebration, which resonate deeply with her audience. In addition to singing, Miss Pooja has also dabbled in acting, appearing in Punjabi films such as “Panjaban” and “Ishq Garaari”.
Global Popularity and Influence
Beyond India, Miss Pooja’s music has gained significant popularity in countries with a large Punjabi diaspora, such as Canada, the UK, and the United States. She has performed at concerts and shows worldwide, captivating audiences with her live performances and electrifying stage presence. Her influence has also extended into the Bollywood music industry, where she collaborated on tracks like “Second Hand Jawani” from the film “Cocktail” (2012), which became a major hit.
Legacy and Impact
Miss Pooja’s contributions to Punjabi music, especially in popularizing duet songs, are undeniable. She helped shape the industry during a critical period when female voices were underrepresented in Punjabi music. Over the course of her career, she has released hundreds of songs and dozens of albums, earning numerous awards and accolades. Despite the rise of new artists in the Punjabi music scene, Miss Pooja remains a beloved figure, thanks to her dedication, humility, and passion for music.
Her journey from a small town in Punjab to becoming a global star is an inspiring story of talent, hard work, and perseverance. Even today, Miss Pooja continues to release music, experiment with new sounds, and engage with her fans, solidifying her status as an icon in Punjabi music.
FAQs
Here are 20 frequently asked questions (FAQs) about old Punjabi female singers, reflecting their contributions to the music industry, personal lives, and cultural significance:
1. Who are some of the most famous old Punjabi female singers?
- Some of the most famous old Punjabi female singers include Surinder Kaur, Asa Singh Mastana, Prakash Kaur, Narinder Biba, and Surinder Kaur’s daughter Dolly Guleria.
2. Who is known as the “Nightingale of Punjab”?
- Surinder Kaur is popularly known as the “Nightingale of Punjab” for her melodious voice and significant contributions to Punjabi folk music.
3. What kind of songs did Surinder Kaur sing?
- Surinder Kaur sang Punjabi folk songs, wedding songs (suhag, gidda), and emotional ballads, with famous songs like “Lathe Di Chadar” and “Suhe Ve Cheere Waleya.”
4. Who was the first Punjabi female playback singer?
- Surinder Kaur is credited as one of the first Punjabi female playback singers, starting her career in the 1940s.
5. What is Prakash Kaur known for?
- Prakash Kaur, the elder sister of Surinder Kaur, is known for her Punjabi duets and folk songs, often performing alongside her sister in the 1950s and 1960s.
6. Which old Punjabi female singer contributed to patriotic songs during India’s Independence movement?
- Narinder Biba sang patriotic songs and folk music. She was popular in the post-independence era for her lively voice and traditional songs.
7. What are some famous songs of Narinder Biba?
- Some of Narinder Biba’s famous songs include “Jutti Kasuri” and “Gorian Gulaban Di.”
8. Who were the contemporaries of Surinder Kaur in Punjabi music?
- Narinder Biba, Prakash Kaur, and Parkash Kaur (not related to Surinder Kaur) were some contemporaries of Surinder Kaur, contributing significantly to the growth of Punjabi folk music.
9. Did these old Punjabi female singers also sing for films?
- Yes, some of the old Punjabi female singers, like Surinder Kaur and Narinder Biba, lent their voices to Punjabi and Hindi films, though they are more remembered for their folk songs.
10. What themes were commonly featured in the songs of these singers?
- The themes in their songs often revolved around love, longing, marriage, cultural traditions, and the daily lives of rural Punjab. Songs related to weddings, harvests, and festivals were common.
11. Which old Punjabi female singer is known for reviving Punjabi folk music in modern times?
- Dolly Guleria, daughter of Surinder Kaur, is credited with continuing the legacy of her mother by promoting Punjabi folk music among newer generations.
12. What was the role of these singers in preserving Punjabi culture?
- These singers played a pivotal role in preserving Punjabi culture by popularizing traditional folk music, wedding songs, and gidda tunes. Their music was a bridge to connect modern audiences with their cultural roots.
13. Are there any Punjabi female singers from earlier times whose influence is still felt today?
- Yes, singers like Surinder Kaur and Narinder Biba have left a lasting legacy, and their songs are still played at Punjabi weddings and cultural events, maintaining their influence in Punjabi music.
14. Did any of the old Punjabi female singers collaborate with male singers?
- Yes, singers like Surinder Kaur and Prakash Kaur often collaborated with famous male singers like Asa Singh Mastana and Harcharan Grewal in the mid-20th century for duets and traditional folk performances.
15. What was the impact of Surinder Kaur’s death on Punjabi music?
- Surinder Kaur’s death in 2006 was a great loss to Punjabi music. However, her legacy continues to thrive through her daughter Dolly Guleria and other artists who still perform and preserve her music.
16. Who is known for popularizing Punjabi wedding songs (suhaag, gidha)?
- Surinder Kaur and Prakash Kaur are both credited for popularizing Punjabi wedding songs, especially the genre of suhaag and gidha.
17. Which singer was popular in the golden era of All India Radio (AIR)?
- Surinder Kaur and Narinder Biba were extremely popular during the golden era of All India Radio, where their music reached millions of listeners across India and abroad.
18. What were the challenges faced by female Punjabi singers in the earlier decades?
- Many old Punjabi female singers faced societal challenges related to performing publicly, breaking traditional gender norms, and balancing cultural expectations while pursuing their music careers.
19. Are there any old Punjabi female singers who gained international recognition?
- Surinder Kaur performed internationally, especially in countries with a large Punjabi diaspora, such as Canada, the UK, and the USA, earning recognition worldwide.
20. What is the cultural significance of the songs by old Punjabi female singers today?
- The songs of old Punjabi female singers remain culturally significant as they are a reflection of traditional Punjabi values, folklore, and rural life. Their music continues to resonate during weddings, festivals, and cultural events, keeping Punjabi heritage alive.
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers
10 Punjabi Female Singers