Udit Narayan, a celebrated Nepalese-Indian playback singer, has graced Bollywood with his melodious voice for decades. His musical journey spans numerous languages, including Nepali, Maithili, and Bhojpuri, showcasing his incredible versatility and talent.
Wiki/Biography
Born on December 1, 1955 (age 78 as of 2023), in Baisi village, Supaul District, Bihar, Udit Narayan’s zodiac sign is Sagittarius. He completed his schooling at Shree Public Bindeshawari Secondary School, Rajbiraj, Nepal. His SSC was from Jageshwar High School, Kunauli, Supaul, Bihar, followed by an intermediate degree from Ratna Rajya Lakshmi Campus, Kathmandu, Nepal. A pivotal moment arrived when he secured a musical scholarship through the Indian Embassy in Nepal, leading him to Mumbai to study classical music at Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan under the guidance of Pandit Dinkar Kaikini.
Physical Appearance
- Height (approx.): 5’ 6”
- Weight (approx.): 70 kg
- Eye Colour: Black
- Hair Colour: Black
Family, Caste & Wife
Udit Narayan’s father, Harekrishna Jha (Nepali), was a farmer, and his mother, Bhuvaneshwari Jha (Indian), a folk singer who greatly influenced his career. He has been married twice. His first wife is Ranjana Narayan Jha. He later married Deepa Narayan (also a singer) in 1985. They have a son, Aditya Narayan, who is also a playback singer.
Career
His career began in 1970 as a Maithili and Nepali folk singer for Kathmandu Radio. His Bollywood debut was in 1980 with the song “Mil gaya Mil gaya” from the movie “Unees-Bees”. A career highlight was singing all the songs for the iconic movie “Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak” with Alka Yagnik in 1988. He’s also released numerous solo albums, including Bhajan Sangam, Bhajan Vatika, I Love You, and many more, showcasing his diverse musical range beyond film.
Controversies
Udit Narayan faced controversy surrounding his two marriages. His first wife, Ranjana, filed a legal case, later resolved with an agreement acknowledging her rights. Further controversy arose in February 2023 following an incident involving a fan at a concert. He addressed the situation, emphasizing the enthusiasm of his fans. Another legal dispute arose in February 2023 when Ranjana Jha filed a lawsuit alleging financial and property issues. Udit countered these claims.
Awards & Honours
Udit Narayan’s contributions have been widely recognized. His accolades include:
| Award | Year |
|---|---|
| Padma Bhushan | 2016 |
| Padma Shri | 2006 |
| Order of Gorkha Dakshina Bahu | 2001 |
| Lata Mangeshkar Award | 2015 |
| National Bravery Award (Maharashtra) | 2016 |
| Maharashtra Ratna Awards | 2011 |
| Dr. Ambedkar awards | 2015 |
| Mohammed Rafi award | 2010 |
| Samrat Vikramaditya Sangeet Alankaran Samman | 2006 |
| National Film Awards (various Best Male Playback Singer awards) | 2001, 2002, 2004 |
| Filmfare Awards (various Best Male Playback Singer awards) | 1989, 1996, 1997, 2000, 2002 |
Favourite Things
- Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, Mohammed Rafi, Kishore Kumar, Alka Yagnik
- Musicians: Rajesh Roshan, Uttam Singh, A. R. Rahman, Ismail Darbar
- Own Song: Jugnu (from the film “Joker” 2012)
Facts
- He sang “Dulhe Raja” in the English film “When Harry Tries to Marry” (2011).
- He and Deepa Narayan collaborated on the pop album “Dil Deewana”.
- He acted in the Nepalese films “Kusume Rumal” and “Pirati” (1985).
- His friendship with Chitragupta, a veteran music composer, proved instrumental in his career.
- An official from the Indian Consulate in Nepal facilitated his classical music studies in Mumbai.
- As a child, he sang for 25 paise at village fairs in Nepal.
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