Female Singers In India: Read on for a list of the best female singers of all time in India, who have sung in Bollywood and independent musical videos, mesmerizing audiences with their soulful renditions.
India has been blessed with an abundance of musical talent. And female singers in India have played a significant role in shaping the vibrant music industry of the nation. From soul-stirring melodies to foot-tapping chartbusters, these exceptional women have graced the world with their mesmerizing voices. This article pays tribute to the top 20 top female singers of all time in India. We hope to highlight their remarkable contributions and their place as the best Bollywood female singers and voices in the industry.
Female Singers In India
Here is a list of the best Indian female singers who are loved and have touched the hearts of millions of people around the world.
List Of The Top Female Singers In India
1. Lata Mangeshkar
No list of legendary Indian female singers is complete without the mention of Lata Mangeshkar. With a career spanning over seven decades, her mellifluous voice has touched millions of hearts. Also, her versatility, impeccable control, and emotional depth make her one of the best female singers of all time in India. The legendary singer has blessed us with timeless classics like “Lag Ja Gale” “Tere Bina Zindagi Se”, “Aye mere Watan ke logo”, “Chup Gaye Sare Nazare”, “Aaj phir jeene ki tammana hai” and many more. With over 50,000 songs in various languages to her credit, she remains the undisputed queen of Indian playback singing. An icon who has transcended boundaries and touched the hearts of millions worldwide.
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2. Shilpa Rao
Known for her soulful renditions, Shilpa Rao has captivated listeners with her unique style. Her powerful vocals and ability to express emotions with utmost authenticity have made her a sought-after artist in the industry. Furthermore, her rendition of “Malang” from the film Dhoom 3 and “Bulleya” from Ae Dil Hai Mushkil stand out as two of her most iconic songs. With numerous awards and nominations, including a Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer, Shilpa Rao has firmly established herself as one of the leading voices in the Indian music industry.
3. Asha Bhosle
Renowned for her distinctive voice and versatility, Asha Bhosle has recorded over 12,000 songs in various languages. Her melodious and playful tones have graced numerous Bollywood classics, making her an icon in the world of Indian music. Asha Bhosle has enchanted hearts with classics like “Piya Tu Ab To Aaja” and “Dum Maro Dum.” Also, she has over 13,000 songs to her credit and a Guinness World Record for recording the most songs in multiple languages. She definitely remains an unparalleled icon in the realm of Indian music.
Best Female Singers In India
4. Shreya Ghoshal
Regarded as the “Queen of Melody,” Shreya Ghoshal’s melodious voice has won her millions of fans worldwide. With her exceptional vocal range and effortless rendition of complex compositions, she has become one of the most celebrated contemporary female singers in India. Her legendary songs like “Bairi Piya,” “Agar Tum Mil Jao,” “Teri Meri,” “Deewani Mastani,” and “Pal Pal Har Pal” have captivated hearts across the globe. With a record-breaking four National Film Awards and numerous other accolades, Shreya Ghoshal continues to reign as one of the most accomplished and celebrated playback singers of our time.
5. Sunidhi Chauhan
Sunidhi Chauhan’s powerful and energetic voice has made her an indispensable part of the Bollywood music industry. Furthermore, her ability to infuse energy and emotions into her performances has earned her immense popularity and critical acclaim. Her powerful vocals set ablaze legendary tracks like “Kamli” and “Sheila Ki Jawani,” solidifying her status as a musical force to be reckoned with. Her achievements include winning numerous awards, such as the Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer for songs like “Beedi” and “Dhoom Machale.” And being honored with the prestigious Padma Shri for her contribution to Indian music.
6. Palak Muchchal
Palak Muchchal, with her soulful voice and emotional depth, has gained recognition as a prominent playback singer. Her ability to convey a range of emotions through her vocals has made her a favorite among listeners of all ages. Furthermore, Palak’s mellifluous voice has given life to numerous timeless melodies. Some of her legendary songs include “Prem Ratan Dhan Payo,” “Kaun Tujhe,” “Meri Aashiqui,” “Laapata,” and “Chahun Main Ya Naa.” Her incredible talent and heartfelt performances have garnered her accolades. Additionally, she has won the prestigious Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer. And is also recognized as the youngest recipient of the Rajasthan Ratna Award for her philanthropic contributions.
Top Female Singers In India
7. Neha Kakkar
Known for her peppy and energetic performances, Neha Kakkar has made a mark in the music industry with her hit Bollywood numbers. Her charismatic stage presence and versatility have made her one of the best female singers in India today. Some of Neha’s most legendary songs include “Mile Ho Tum Humko,” “Kaala Chashma,” “Cheez Badi,” “Aankh Marey,” and “Dilbar.” Also, with numerous chart-topping hits, Neha Kakkar has achieved remarkable success in the music industry. Besides, she won the Mirchi Music Awards for Female Vocalist of the Year in 2020 and is one of the most-viewed female artists on YouTube with billions of views.
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8. Alka Yagnik
With her melodious and soothing voice, Alka Yagnik has created a rich musical legacy. Her ability to emote and bring out the essence of a song has made her a respected and beloved figure in Indian music. Moreover, her melodious voice has touched hearts and has become the soul of Bollywood. Her timeless classics include “Pardesi Pardesi” (Raja Hindustani), “Tum Dil Ki Dhadkan Mein” (Dhadkan), “Dil Ne Yeh Kaha Hain Dil Se” (Dhadkan), “Agar Tum Saath Ho” (Tamasha), and “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai” (Kuch Kuch Hota Hai). Additionally, she has a record-breaking seven Filmfare Awards for Best Female Playback Singer. Alka Yagnik remains an iconic figure in the music industry, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema with her versatile range and emotional renditions.
9. Rekha Bhardwaj
Rekha Bhardwaj’s soul-stirring and distinctive voice has garnered her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Her ability to infuse pathos into her renditions has made her one of the most respected female singers in the industry. Her iconic songs like “Genda Phool,” “Namak Ishq Ka,” “Kabira,” “Tere Ishq Mein,” and “Phir Le Aya Dil” have garnered immense acclaim. Also, her songs showcase her versatile range, earning her numerous awards, including the prestigious National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer.
Bollywood Female Singers
10. S. Chithra
S. Chithra’s angelic voice and versatility have made her an iconic figure in Indian music. Known for her contributions to both Bollywood and regional cinema, she has delivered numerous chart-topping hits over the years. From the soul-stirring melodies of “Ae Zindagi Gale Laga Le” to the enchanting tunes of “Kehna Hi Kya,” her versatile voice has garnered numerous accolades. Also, including six National Film Awards and several Filmfare Awards.
11. Falguni Pathak
Falguni Pathak’s melodious voice and energetic performances have made her the undisputed queen of Indi-pop music. Her songs have become an integral part of celebrations and festivals in India, earning her a special place in the hearts of music lovers. Besides, the queen of dandiya, has mesmerized hearts with her enchanting voice in timeless classics. Some of these are “Yaad Piya Ki Aane Lagi,” “Maine Payal Hai Chhankai,” “Chudi Jo Khankee,” “Meri Chunar Udd Udd Jaye,” and “O Piya.” Also, her songs continue to transcend generations, earning her numerous awards and accolades for her remarkable contribution to Indian music.
12. Neeti Mohan
Neeti Mohan’s sweet and soulful voice has garnered her popularity in both Bollywood and independent music. Her versatility and ability to effortlessly switch between genres have made her one of the most promising female singers in India. Further, Neeti’s melodious voice has graced numerous legendary songs, including “Jiya Re” from Jab Tak Hai Jaan, “Ishq Wala Love” from Student of the Year, “Sapna Jahan” from Brothers, “Sau Aasmaan” from Baar Baar Dekho, and “Nainowale Ne” from Padmaavat. Her remarkable achievements include winning the Filmfare RD Burman Award for New Music Talent. Additionally, she has been a judge on the popular singing reality show, The Voice India.
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Best Female Singers Of All Time
13. Kavita Krishnamurti
Kavita Krishnamurti’s enchanting voice and impeccable classical training have made her a respected figure in the music industry. Her contributions to Bollywood and fusion music have earned her accolades and a loyal fan following. The melodious voice that has captivated hearts, gifted us timeless gems like “Hawa Hawai,” “Nimbooda Nimbooda,” “Aaj Main Upar,” “Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam,” and “Dola Re Dola.” With her exceptional range and emotive expressions, she has garnered numerous accolades including the prestigious National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer.
14. Kavita Seth
Known for her mesmerizing Sufi renditions, Kavita Seth’s soulful voice has created a niche for her in the Indian music scene. Her ability to evoke emotions through her melodious compositions has made her an esteemed female singer. Moreover, her legendary repertoire includes timeless melodies like “Iktara” from the film “Wake Up Sid,” “Tum Hi Ho Bandhu” from “Cocktail,” “Jeete Hain Chal” from “Neerja,” “Mora Piya” from “Rajneeti,” and “Murabba” from “Raw Mango.” With her distinct style and emotive renditions, Kavita Seth has won the hearts of millions. Also, she has won a Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer for “Iktara.” And the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for her outstanding contributions to Indian music.
15. Bombay Jayashri
Bombay Jayashri’s melodic voice and classical expertise have made her a highly regarded figure in the music industry. Her soulful renditions and exceptional vocal control have earned her critical acclaim and numerous accolades. Also, Bombay Jayashri’s soulful voice has graced the music world with timeless melodies. These include “Vaseegara,” “Zara Zara,” “Munbe Vaa,” “Pi’s Lullaby,” and “Aaromale.” Additionally, her immense talent earned her a National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer and a nomination for an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
Indian Female Singers
16. Monali Thakur
Monali Thakur’s versatile voice and charming persona have won her fans across the country. From peppy dance numbers to soulful melodies, her talent knows no bounds. And this makes her one of the most promising female singers in Bollywood. Her mellifluous voice soared in enchanting melodies like “Sawaar Loon,” “Moh Moh Ke Dhaage,” “Zara Zara Touch Me,” “Badri Ki Dulhania,” and “Khwab Dekhe.” Her remarkable achievements include winning the National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer. And the Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer for her song “Moh Moh Ke Dhaage.” Moreover, she was also nominated for the same awards for her other mesmerizing performances.
17. Shalmali Kholgade
Shalmali Kholgade’s refreshing and husky voice has made her a popular choice for contemporary Bollywood music. Also, her unique style and ability to bring a fresh perspective to her songs have earned her widespread recognition. Shalmali’s soulful voice has graced several legendary songs. Some of these are “Pareshaan” from the film “Ishaqzaade,” “Balam Pichkari” from “Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani,” “Baby Ko Bass Pasand Hai” from “Sultan,” “Lat Lag Gayee” from “Race 2,” and “Aga Bai” from “Aiyyaa.” Her remarkable achievements include winning the Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer for “Pareshaan”. Furthermore, she was nominated for various other prestigious awards, showcasing her immense talent and versatility.
Amazing Female Singers In India
18. Neha Bhasin
Neha Bhasin is known for her powerful vocals. Her ability to adapt to various musical genres and experiment with her voice has made her one of the most respected female singers in India. From the peppy beats of “Kuch Khaas Hai” to the haunting melody of “Jag Ghoomeya,” she has earned accolades for her versatility. Also, she has received awards like the Filmfare and Mirchi Music Awards. Her other remarkable tracks include “Dhunki,” “Swag Se Swagat,” and “Nai Jaana,” solidifying her position as one of the industry’s most celebrated singers.
19. Richa Sharma
Richa Sharma’s soulful and earthy voice has won her immense praise in the industry. Her captivating performances and melodious renditions have made her one of the best female singers of all time in India. Furthermore, her soul-stirring voice resonates in timeless melodies like “Sajda” from the film “My Name Is Khan,” “Maahi Ve” from “Kal Ho Naa Ho,” “Billo Rani” from “Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal,” “Zor Ka Jhatka” from “Action Replayy,” and “Jag Soona Soona Lage” from “Om Shanti Om.”
20. Tulsi Kumar
Tulsi Kumar’s melodious voice and emotive renditions have made her a prominent playback singer in Bollywood. Her ability to convey the essence of a song with utmost sensitivity has garnered her a loyal fan base. Some of her legendary songs include “Tera Ban Jaunga,” “O Saki Saki,” “Paniyon Sa,” “Wajah Tum Ho,” and “Humko Pyaar Hua.” Moreover, her songs showcase her versatility and mastery of different genres. With multiple awards, chart-topping hits, and a voice that resonates with emotions, Tulsi Kumar continues to reign supreme in the realm of music.