Alka Yagnik was born on March 20, 1966, (59 Years Old) in Kolkata, India. You’ve probably heard her voice in movies, on the radio, or playing in the background at weddings. She’s sung some of the most famous songs in Bollywood and has been part of the music world for many years.
Music was a big part of her childhood. Her mom was a classical singer and noticed her talent early on. Alka started singing bhajans for All India Radio when she was just six. That support at home helped shape her singing career and over the years, her success has also added to her impressive net worth.
If you want to know more about her Wiki, personal life, career, big songs, and everything she’s done—you can read her full bio here.
Wiki
| Full Name | Alka Yagnik |
|---|---|
| Profession | Playback Singer |
| Famous As | Singer |
| Nick Name | Alka |
| Date of Birth | 20 March 1966 |
| Age | 59 Years Old |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Birthplace | Kolkata, West Bengal, India |
| Hometown | Kolkata, West Bengal, India |
| Country | India |
| Mother Tongue | Hindi |
| Zodiac Sign | Pisces |
| Religion | Hinduism |
| Hobbies | Singing, Reading & Travelling |
| Food Habits | Vegetarian |
| Educational Qualification | Yet To Update |
| School Name | Modern High School for Girls, Kolkata, West Bengal, India |
| College/University | Yet To Update |
| Debut | Yet To Update |
Family
Alka Yagnik’s dad is Dharmendra Shankar, and her mom is Shubha Yagnik, who actually had a background in classical music and was the first one to guide Alka into singing. She also has a brother named Samir Yagnik.
| Father Name | Dharmendra Shankar |
|---|---|
| Mother Name | Shubha Yagnik |
| Brother Name | Samir Yagnik |
| Sister Name | None |
Physical Appearance
Alka Yagnik stands around 5 feet 4 inches tall, which is about 163 cm. She weighs roughly 65 kg or 143 pounds. She’s got black eyes and dark brown hair, which has been part of her signature look for years. The information about her body measurements is yet to be updated.
| Height (Approx.) | in centimeters – 163 cm in meters – 1.63 m in feet inches – 5’ 4” |
|---|---|
| Weight (Approx.) | in kilograms – 65 kg in pounds – 143 lbs |
| Eye Color | Black |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
Relationship Status
Alka Yagnik is married to Neeraj Kapoor, a businessman based in Shillong. They’ve been together for a long time. The couple has a daughter named Syesha Kapoor.
| Marital Status | Married |
|---|---|
| Alka Yagnik Husband Name | Neeraj Kapoor (Shillong-based businessman) |
| Children | Son– None Daughter– Syesha Kapoor |
Alka Yagnik Career
Alka Yagnik has been one of the most popular playback singers in India since the 1980s. She’s known for her hit songs in Bollywood and has sung in over 25 languages. Her voice became a regular part of films, especially in the ’90s.
Early Start with Classical Roots
Alka Yagnik didn’t just wake up one day and become one of Bollywood’s most loved voices. Music was always part of her home life. Her mom, Shubha Yagnik, was a trained classical singer and noticed Alka’s talent early. By the age of four, she was already singing. At six, she was performing bhajans on All India Radio in Kolkata. That kind of early exposure set the stage for her future.
Entry into Bollywood
Her Bollywood playback career kicked off in the early ’80s. Her first recorded film song was for Payal Ki Jhankaar in 1980. After that came “Mere Angane Mein” from Laawaris in 1981, followed by songs in Hamari Bahu Alka in 1982. These songs gave her some initial recognition, but it was still early days. She kept singing smaller projects, slowly making her mark.
Breakthrough Moment with “Ek Do Teen”
1988 was a game-changing year. Alka recorded the now-iconic “Ek Do Teen” from Tezaab —a song that’s still remembered decades later. She had a high fever on the recording day but powered through. That track won her first Filmfare Award and gave her a firm foothold in the industry. After that, there was no looking back.
Voice That Traveled Beyond Borders
Alka wasn’t limited to Hindi songs. She recorded music in over 25 languages, including Bengali, Gujarati, Assamese, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Punjabi, and even Manipuri. She also sang 15 songs for Pakistani projects. Her ability to sing in so many languages helped her reach a wider audience.
She’s performed live concerts around the world too, bringing her voice to fans in different countries. Whether it was a romantic number or a high-energy dance track, her voice connected with people across cultures.
Iconic and Controversial Songs in the ’90s
In 1993, Alka created a buzz with the bold song “Choli Ke Peeche Kya Hai” from Khalnayak, sung with Ila Arun. The lyrics sparked controversy, but the song turned into a hit and won both singers a Filmfare Award.
A year later, she sang “Din Mein Leti Hai” from Amaanat, alongside Kumar Sanu and Ila Arun. She also did the female-only version with Ila. These songs showed her range and how she wasn’t afraid to try something different.
Throughout the ’90s, Alka and Kavita Krishnamurthy were the go-to voices for most lead heroines. Her work with composers like Kalyanji-Anandji and Laxmikant–Pyarelal during this time helped build some unforgettable tracks.
Private Albums, Devotional Music, and Hollywood Feature
Alka also worked on non-film music. In 1997, she released Tum Yaad Aaye with lyricist Javed Akhtar and composer Raju Singh. In 2002, she teamed up with Hariharan for Tum Aaye, and in 2003, she worked with Shankar Mahadevan on Shairana. These albums had a more personal feel and allowed her to experiment a bit more.
She didn’t just stick to love songs and film hits. Alka sang the Hanuman Chalisa and many devotional songs. Her voice in the track “Chamma Chamma” from China Gate became so popular that it ended up in the Hollywood film Moulin Rouge! in the remix “Hindi Sad Diamonds.”
Special Campaigns and Milestones
In 2012, Alka and Sonu Nigam recorded “Shiksha Ka Suraj” for India’s National Literacy Mission. That same year, her song “Taal Se Taal Mila” was picked as the best song of the century in a public poll. Another poll picked “Choli Ke Peeche” as the hottest song of the century. Her influence reached beyond just music charts.
She continued to use her voice for causes. In 2014, she sang “Phool Khil Jayenge” with Sonu Nigam for child health awareness. She was also part of a Women’s Day album where she sang “Maine Li Jo Angdai”.
Still Relevant and Still Respected
In 2015, Alka sang the hit track “Agar Tum Saath Ho” from Tamasha. Even though A R Rahman wasn’t physically present during the recording, he guided her through a Skype call. She said he told her to interpret the song her way, which shows the respect even top composers have for her instincts.
Record-Breaking Stats and Lasting Influence
Alka shares the record for most Filmfare Awards won by a female playback singer with Asha Bhosle—seven in total. She’s recorded 2,486 songs in 1,114 films. That puts her fifth among Bollywood’s most prolific singers. Only legends like Asha Bhosle, Mohammed Rafi, Lata Mangeshkar, and Kishore Kumar have sung more.
Among female playback singers, she’s in the top three for the most solo songs—right behind Lata and Asha.
What People Say About Her
Alka credits her mom for her early training. She also learned a lot from composers like Kalyanji-Anandji and Laxmikant-Pyarelal. Though she’s done all kinds of songs—romantic, sad, fun, item numbers—she feels romantic tracks suit her voice the best.
Most of her hit duets are with Kumar Sanu, followed by Udit Narayan and Sonu Nigam. That trio—Alka, Kumar, and Udit—pretty much ruled the ’90s music scene.
She’s often called the “queen of playback singing” and has been described as “honey-voiced” by The Times of India. Hindustan Times called her voice magical. Even younger singers like Sunidhi Chauhan say they look up to her. Music director Lalit Pandit said she stood out from others in her time because of her crystal-clear voice. Veteran vocalist Vani Jairam even named her as a personal favorite.
Awards
Alka Yagnik has received loads of awards and nominations over the years for her incredible voice and hit songs. Here’s a quick look at some of the most well-known ones from major award shows:
| Award Name | Year | Category | Work / Song | Result |
| Filmfare Awards | 2016 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Tamasha – “Agar Tum Saath Ho” | Nominee |
| 2009 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Yuvvraaj – “Tu Muskura” | Nominee | |
| 2007 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna – Title Track | Nominee | |
| 2005 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Hum Tum – “Saanso Ko Saanso Mein” | Winner | |
| 2005 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Mujhse Shaadi Karogi – “Lal Dupatta” | Nominee | |
| IIFA Awards | 2007 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna – Title Track | Nominee |
| 2005 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Hum Tum (Sad Version) | Nominee | |
| 2005 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Mujhse Shaadi Karogi – “Lal Dupatta” | Nominee | |
| 2005 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Aitraaz – “Aakhe Bandh Karke” | Nominee | |
| 2004 | Best Playback Singer – Female | LOC: Kargil – “Seemaaye Bulaaye” | Nominee | |
| Zee Cine Awards | 2007 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna – “Tumhi Dekho Na” | Winner |
| 2004 | Best Playback Singer – Female | In Your Name – “Odhni” | Nominee | |
| 2002 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham – “Suraj Hua Maddham” | Nominee | |
| 2001 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai – Title Song | Winner | |
| 1999 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Kuch Kuch Hota Hai – Title Song | Winner | |
| National Film Awards | 1999 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Kuch Kuch Hota Hai | Winner |
| 1994 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke | Winner | |
| Apsara Awards | 2016 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Tamasha | Nominee |
| 2004 | Best Playback Singer – Female | In Your Name – “Oodhni” | Winner | |
| Bollywood Awards | 2007 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna | Winner |
| 2002 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Asoka – “San Sanana” | Winner | |
| 2001 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai | Winner | |
| 1999 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Kuch Kuch Hota Hai | Winner | |
| Mirchi Music Awards | 2021 | Best Song of The Decade | Tamasha – “Agar Tum Saath Ho” | Winner |
| 2016 | Best Song of the Year | Tamasha – “Agar Tum Saath Ho“ | Winner | |
| 2016 | Best Vocalist – Female | Tamasha – “Agar Tum Saath Ho” | Nominee | |
| 2016 | Best Song of the Year | Tamasha – “Agar Tum Saath Ho” | Nominee | |
| Global Indian Music Awards | 2016 | Best Film Song | Tamasha – “Agar Tum Saath Ho” | Nominee |
| 2016 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Tamasha – “Agar Tum Saath Ho” | Nominee | |
| Screen Awards | 2004 | Best Playback Singer – Female | In Your Name | Nominee |
| 2002 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Asoka – “Sansanana” | Nominee | |
| 2001 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Refugee – “Paanchi Nadiyaan” | Winner | |
| 2001 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Dhadkan – “Dil Ne Ye Kaha Hai Dil Se” | Nominee | |
| 2001 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Refugee – “Panchi Nadiya” | Nominee | |
| MTV Video Music Awards (VMA) | 1999 | Viewer’s Choice – MTV India | Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (with Udit Narayan) | Nominee |
| 1999 | Viewer’s Choice – MTV India | Mera Mann (with Udit Narayan) | Nominee | |
| Indian Telly Awards | 2004 | Best Title Singer – TV Show | Piya Ka Ghar | Nominee |
| Global Indian Film Awards | 2006 | Best Singer – Female | Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna | Winner |
| FOI Online Awards | 2024 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Amar Singh Chamkila – “Naram Kaalja” | Nominee |
| 2015 | Best Playback Singer – Female | Tamasha – “Agar Tum Saath Ho” | Nominee |
Controversies
Alka Yagnik has mostly stayed away from drama, but a few controversies have popped up over the years. Here’s a quick look at the ones that made headlines:
| Date | Controversy | Description |
| 1993 | “Choli Ke Peeche Kya Hai” Song Controversy | The song from the film Khalnayak, sung by Alka Yagnik and Ila Arun, faced backlash for its provocative lyrics. Over 42 politicians opposed the song, deeming it vulgar, leading to its ban on Doordarshan. |
| February 2025 | Udit Narayan’s Unsolicited Kiss Incident | An old video resurfaced showing Udit Narayan kissing Alka Yagnik on the cheek during a public event without her consent, leaving her visibly uncomfortable. This incident, along with similar ones involving other singers, sparked discussions about consent and professionalism in the entertainment industry. |
| March 2025 | Comments on Osama Bin Laden’s Alleged Music Preferences | Alka Yagnik faced criticism for her remarks regarding reports that Osama Bin Laden had her songs in his collection. When informed about this, she responded, “Is it my fault?” Her reaction was perceived by some as insensitive, leading to public backlash. |
Net Worth & Salary
Alka Yagnik’s estimated net worth is around $10 million, which is roughly INR 82 crore. She reportedly charges about INR 24 lakh for each song she records.
| Net Worth in USD (Approx.) | $10 Million |
|---|---|
| Net Worth in Indian Rupees (Approx.) | ₹82 Crore |
| Salary (Approx.) | ₹24 Lakh/Song |
| Car & Bike Collection | Mercedes Benz GLE, |
| Income Source | Singing |
Social Media Handles
| @therealalkayagnik | |
| @AlkaYagnik | |
| @thealkayagnik | |
| YouTube | @Realalkayagnik |
Alka Yagnik Songs Lyrics
- Deewana
- Yuhi Nahi
- Mata Rani Ka Dhyan Dhariye
- Tumsa Koi Pyaara
- Mere Mehboob Mere Sanam
- Bitiya Rani
- Mera Dil Nahin Lagda
- Sang Tum Rehna
- Hori Khele Raghuveera
- Choli Ke Peeche
- Naram Kaalja
- Jai Shree Ram
- Mohabbat Mohabbat
- Udd Jaa Kaale Kaava
- Kanhaiya Re
- Mann Kailash
- Diya Jalao Ram Naam Ka
- Tip Tip
- Humnavva Humsafar
- Mujhko Mana Lena
- Meri Pukaar Suno
- Allah Bada Tu Hai
- Bailgadi
- Mirchi Lagi Toh
- Jina Jina Moraliya
Interesting Facts About Alka Yagnik
- Alka started singing at the age of four and gave her first performance on All India Radio when she was just six.
- Despite recording “Ek Do Teen” with a high fever, the song went on to become one of the biggest hits of her career.
- She has sung over 15 songs for Pakistani projects, which many of her Indian fans may not know about.
- Her song “Chamma Chamma” was featured in the Hollywood movie Moulin Rouge! in a remix titled “Hindi Sad Diamonds.”
- She once recorded up to five songs in a single day during her busiest years in the ’90s.
- Alka doesn’t live with her husband full-time—they’ve had a long-distance marriage for over two decades but remain close.
- In 2012, her song “Taal Se Taal Mila” was voted the best song of the century in a public poll.
- She has no formal music degree, yet she is one of the most awarded playback singers in Bollywood history.
- Veteran South Indian singer Vani Jairam once picked Alka as her personal favorite for her voice in the ’90s.
FAQs
How old is Alka Yagnik ?
Alka Yagnik is 59 Years Old.
What is Alka Yagnik ‘s height?
She is about 5 feet 4 inches tall (163 cm).
What is Alka Yagnik ‘s Net Worth?
Her net worth is estimated to be around $10 million (INR 82 crore)