Rekha Bhardwaj
Rekha Bhardwaj (born 23 January 1964) is an Indian playback singer known for her distinctive, earthy vocal style. She has worked extensively in Hindi cinema and has also recorded songs in Bengali, Marathi, Punjabi and Malayalam. She is the recipient of a National Film Award and multiple Filmfare Awards.
Rekha Bhardwaj 
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| Born | 23 January 1964 Delhi, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Playback singer, Live performer |
| Years active | 1997–present |
| Spouse | Vishal Bhardwaj |
| Children | 1 |
Early Life and Education
Rekha Bhardwaj was born in Delhi, India. She pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Music (Honours) from Hindu College, University of Delhi. From a young age, she showed interest in music and was encouraged to practice regularly.[1]
During her college years, she met filmmaker and composer Vishal Bhardwaj. The two later married and continued their creative collaboration in the music and film industry.[2]
Career
Rekha Bhardwaj made her Bollywood playback debut with the song “Ek Woh Din Bhi” from the film Chachi 420 (1997). Her major breakthrough came with the song “Namak Ishq Ka” from the film Omkara (2006), composed by Vishal Bhardwaj.
She gained widespread recognition with the song “Sasural Genda Phool” from Delhi-6 (2009), which earned her the Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer.[3]
In 2011, she received the National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer for the song “Badi Dheere Jali” from the film Ishqiya. The same year, she won another Filmfare Award (shared with Usha Uthup) for the song “Darling” from 7 Khoon Maaf.
Some of her notable songs include:
- “Humari Atariya Pe” – Dedh Ishqiya
- “Phir Le Aya Dil” – Barfi!
- “Darling” – 7 Khoon Maaf
- “Sasural Genda Phool” – Delhi-6
- “Ek Ghadi” – D-Day
Regional Work
Apart from Hindi cinema, Rekha Bhardwaj has sung in multiple regional languages:
- Marathi – “Unn Matlabi” (Kuni Mulgi Deta Ka Mulgi)
- Bengali – “Swapno Bheja Alo” (Doshomi)
- Malayalam – “Doore Doore” (Carbon)
She also recorded the soundtrack for the Pakistani television series Humnasheen (2013), earning a nomination for Best Original Soundtrack.[4]
Musical Style
Rekha Bhardwaj is known for her deep, husky and soulful voice. Her singing often blends folk, Sufi and classical influences. Her vocal texture and expressive style have made her one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary Indian playback music.
Awards and Recognition
Rekha Bhardwaj has received several accolades, including:
- National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer – Ishqiya
- Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer – “Sasural Genda Phool”
- Filmfare Award (shared) – “Darling” from 7 Khoon Maaf
- Mirchi Music Awards – Female Vocalist of the Year
- Multiple nominations for Filmfare and other music awards
Personal Life
Rekha Bhardwaj is married to filmmaker, composer and producer Vishal Bhardwaj. The couple has a son named Aasmaan.
She is known for her simple lifestyle and interest in cooking.
Net Worth
Rekha Bhardwaj’s estimated net worth is reported to be approximately INR 151 crore.
References
- ↑ https://www.hindustantimes.com/art-and-culture/the-lesser-known-side-of-singer-rekha-bhardwaj/story-DsD3h7QffclAIBSut0IvaM.html
- ↑ https://www.hindustantimes.com/htcity/htcity-delhi-junction/singer-rekha-bhardwaj-performs-at-bharat-mandapam-and-says-dilli-dilwalon-ki-hai-main-bhi-dilli-se-hoon-101753786653800.html
- ↑ https://www.millenniumpost.in/features/rekha-bhardwaj-to-perform-at-jazbaa-dilon-ko-dilon-se-jodne-ka-618296
- ↑ https://www.indulgexpress.com/culture/music/2025/Jul/29/rekha-bhardwajs-jazbaa-concert-a-return-to-her-delhi-roots