Babul Supriyo, a prominent Indian figure, transitioned from a celebrated playback singer to a significant political personality. His journey, marked by both musical triumphs and political engagement, offers a fascinating insight into a multifaceted career.
Wiki/Biography
Babul Supriyo, born December 15, 1970 (age 53 as of 2023), hails from Uttarpara, West Bengal. A Sagittarius, his education commenced at Don Bosco High & Technical School, Liluah, West Bengal. He later earned a B.Com (Hons.) from Serampore College, West Bengal in 1991. His early talent shone through when he won the All India Don Bosco Champion title in 1983, followed by “The Most Enriching Talent” award in 1985.
Following his graduation, he briefly worked at Standard Chartered Bank in Kolkata before pursuing his passion for singing. His move to Mumbai in 1992 marked the beginning of his professional singing career, significantly influenced by his grandfather, a renowned Bengali vocalist and composer, Banikantha NC Baral. His extensive training under his grandfather’s tutelage laid a solid foundation for his musical journey. While in college, he participated and won an impressive 45 music competitions and regularly performed on All India Radio and Doordarshan.
Physical Appearance
- Height (approx.): 5′ 8″
- Eye Colour: Black
- Hair Colour: Black
Family, Wife & Caste
Babul Supriyo, originally named Supriya Baral, adopted his stage name upon moving to Mumbai. He is of Bengali ethnicity, born to Sunil Chandra Baral and Sumitra Baral. His first marriage was to Riaa, whom he met in Toronto during a Shah Rukh Khan concert in 1995. They have a daughter, Sharmilee (born 1999). Their marriage ended in divorce in 2006.
He later married Rachna Sharma, an air hostess, in 2016, whom he met on a flight. They have a daughter, Naina (born August 12, 2017).
Singing Career
His Bollywood debut as a playback singer came with the film Kaho Na Pyaar Hai, Hrithik Roshan’s debut. His remarkable voice quickly gained recognition, leading to numerous playback singing opportunities. His contributions to films like Hum Tum, Fanaa, and Hungama cemented his status. Beyond Bollywood, he also sang for Bengali films and even ventured into acting in Bengali cinema.
His talent extended beyond film; he was a regular performer in various music festivals internationally and hosted the show “K for Kishore” with Asha Bhonsle and Amit Kumar. He has recorded songs in eleven different languages. In July 2002, he received Honorary Citizenship from the State Council of Atlanta, USA.
Awards & Honours
Babul Supriyo’s accolades include numerous awards for Best Male Playback Singer. Below is a summary:
| Year | Award | For |
|---|---|---|
| 2002 | Honorary Citizenship (State Council of Atlanta) | N/A |
| 2002 | Best Male Playback Singer | Tak Jhal Mishti (Bengal Film Journalists’ Association Awards) |
| 2003 | Best Male Playback Singer | Kasauti Zindagii Kay (Kalakar Awards) |
| 2004 | Best Male Playback Singer | Mayer Anchal (Kalakar Awards) |
| 2006 | Best Male Playback Singer | Subho Drishti (Bengal Film Journalists’ Awards) |
| 2007 | Best Male Playback Singer | Kasauti Zindagii Kay (Zee Gold Awards) |
| 2016 | Walked the ramp at the Grand Finale of the Indian Federation for Fashion Development’s Runway Week (Season 6) | For fashion designer Agnimitra Paul |
Political Career
A follower of Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narendra Modi, he joined the BJP in 2014. He successfully contested the Lok Sabha elections from the Asansol constituency, winning by a significant margin. He served as a Union Minister under Narendra Modi, holding various portfolios including Urban Development, Housing, Heavy Industries, and Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. He notably resigned from the Council of Ministers in 2021, subsequently leaving the BJP and joining the All India Trinamool Congress. In 2022, he became a cabinet minister in the West Bengal government.
Controversies
* A defamation case was filed against him by TMC MP Mahua Moitra.
* He called for a ban on Pakistani artists in India.
* He faced criticism for threatening individuals at public events.
Signature
(Description of Signature)
Favourite Things
* Favourite Politician: Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narendra Modi
* Favourite Music Director: Nadeem-Shravan
* Favourite Singer: Kishore Kumar
* Favourite Song: Chingari Koyi Bhadke by Kishore Kumar
* Favourite Sport: Football
Address
Flat No. 2D, Prathama, Mohisila Colony, Asansol, West Bengal
Car & Bike Collection
He owned an Audi Q5 (2012), Chevrolet Beat (2011), Hyundai i20 Active (2015), and a Royal Enfield Thunderbird (2014).
Assets & Properties
His assets include significant movable and immovable properties.
Salary & Net Worth
His salary and net worth details are available, reflecting his various roles.
Facts
He appeared on MTV Coke Studio Season 4 with his daughter Sharmilee and served as Vice-President of the Under 17 Football World Cup Organizing Committee of India.
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