Shiv Lingashtkam-Kailash Kher

Ishq Anokha

Kailash Kher is an iconic Indian singer, composer, and lyricist, celebrated for his unique and powerful voice that fuses folk, Sufi, and rock music. His distinctive vocal style, spiritual lyrics, and raw, soulful energy have made him one of the most recognizable voices in the Indian music industry. His journey from a humble background to a Padma Shri awardee is a testament to his perseverance and unwavering dedication to his art.

Kailash Kher was born on July 7, 1973, in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, into a family with a deep connection to music. His father, Mehar Singh Kher, was a priest who often performed and taught traditional folk songs. This early exposure to devotional music and the influences of legendary Sufi singers and ghazal maestros shaped his unique singing style.

Driven by his passion, Kailash left home at the age of 14 to pursue a career in music. He endured a period of immense struggle and hardship, moving to different cities and performing odd jobs to survive. He initially tried his hand at a small business but faced financial ruin. He even attempted to break into the music industry in Mumbai, but his unconventional voice, which did not fit the typical Bollywood mold, was repeatedly rejected by music directors. This challenging period in his life, however, only deepened his commitment to his spiritual and folk-infused style.

Kailash Kher's big break came in 2003 with the song "Allah Ke Bande" from the film Waisa Bhi Hota Hai Part II. The song's raw emotion and unconventional melody were an instant sensation. It resonated with a wide audience and brought him widespread acclaim, earning him a nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer.

Following this success, Kailash formed the band Kailasa in 2004 with the Mumbai-based brothers Paresh and Naresh Kamath. The band's music is known for its blend of Indian folk and classical melodies with rock and modern pop. Their debut album, Kailasa, featured the monumental hit "Teri Deewani," a song that transcended genres and became a spiritual anthem for millions. The band went on to release several critically acclaimed albums, including Jhoomo Re (2007) and Chaandan Mein (2009).

Some of his most popular Bollywood and independent songs include:

• "Sikander" from Sikander (2009)
• "Arziyan" from Delhi-6 (2009), for which he won a Filmfare Award.
• "Jay Jaykara" from Baahubali 2: The Conclusion (2017)
• "Tauba Tauba" from Kaal (2005)
• "Kaise Batayein" from Jhoomo Re (2007)

Kailash Kher's remarkable contribution to music has been recognized with some of India's highest honors. In 2017, the Government of India bestowed upon him the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian award, for his exceptional contributions to music.

His award list includes:

• National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer for "Teri Deewani" from the film Sikander.
• Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer for "Arziyan" from Delhi-6.
• He has also received numerous other awards from ceremonies like the IIFA Awards, Zee Cine Awards, and Mirchi Music Awards.

Beyond his music career, Kailash Kher is also a noted philanthropist and a respected television personality. He has actively used his platform to raise awareness for various social causes, including child labor and poverty. He has served as a judge and mentor on popular singing reality shows like Indian Idol and Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, where his unique insights and spiritual perspective have made him a favorite among contestants and audiences.

Kailash Kher’s journey is an inspiring example of a musician who defied conventional norms and found success by staying true to his authentic voice and spiritual roots. His music continues to serve as a bridge between traditional and contemporary Indian sounds, resonating with a global audience.