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Earlier this week, we unveiled our list of Bollywood’s top 10 male singers. In honor of #womencrushwednesday, check out the top 10 female playback singers of Bollywood!
Shreya Ghoshal has been killing it in the Bollywood music industry since Ismail Darbar officially launched her in Devdas (2002). From her 16-year-old Saregamapa days to her current glamor and charisma as a stage performer, Shreya has delivered many chartbusting hits, such as “Dola Re Dola”, “Chikni Chameli”, and most recently, “Deewani Mastaani” from Sanjay Leela Bhansbali’s upcoming historical romance Bajirao Mastani.
Mamta Sharma has gained her place in listeners’ hearts as an item number queen in the music industry. Ever since her debut with Dabangg’s “Munni Badnaam Hui”, Mamta is only becoming increasingly popular with her unique, rustic tonal quality.
Palak Muchhal is a female playback singer that has recently risen to fame in the Bollywood music industry. Her light and melodious voice make any of her songs easy to listen and love. Currently, one of her most trending tracks is the title track of Prem Ratan Dhan Payo.
In stark contrast to Palak’s softness is Neeti Mohan’s spunky style. One of three sisters, Neeti is a dynamic singer that is most well-known for her upbeat numbers. My personal favorites of hers are “Jiya Re” from Jab Tak Hai Jaan and “Tune Maari Entriyaan” from Gunday.
Like Shreya, Sunidhi Chauhan is yet another singer that has been around for many years. Her versatility and powerful vocals make her the perfect choice for any sensuous, seductive song. Having worked with a wide range of music directors, Sunidhi’s most popular hits are definitely “Kamli” from Dhoom 3 and “Desi Girl” from Dostana.
Shilpa Rao is an amazing but underrated female playback singer in the music industry. Her husky voice and deep tonal quality lend intense passion and emotionality to her singing. My personal favorites by Shilpa are “Manmarizyan” from Lootera, “Khuda Jaane” from Bachna Ae Haseeno, and “Allah Maaf Kare” from Desi Boyz.
Kanika Kapoor is a strong female vocalist who sings and performs with intensity and conviction. Her most popular tracks are all upbeat Punjabi numbers, such as Roy’s “Chittiyaan Kalaiyaan”, Happy New Year’s “Lovely”, and Ragini MMS 2’s “Baby Doll.”
Chinmayi Sripada is a South Indian singer that has made her mark and established her place in the Bollywood music scene. Her Carnatic and Hindustani Music training have provided her with a strong background to render both melodious tracks and strong item numbers. This singer recently turned dubbing artist has many Hindi hits to her credit, including “Mast Magan” from 2 States, “Tere Bina” from Guru, and recently “Mera Naam Mary” from Brothers.
Shalmali Kholgade made her musical breakthrough into Bollywood with “Pareshaan” from Ishaqzaade, gaining much acceptance and appreciation for it! She has a very interesting voice that’s always a pleasure to hear. Some of her hits include “Lat Lag Gayi” from Race 2 and “Shayrana” from Daawat-e-Ishq.
Last but not the least, Shefali Alvares comes from a musical family so her talent is not surprising in the least. Her most popular tracks are fist-pumping party numbers, like “Party On My Mind” from Race 2 and “Tattoo” from ABCD 2.
