Lata Mangeshkar is considered the evergreen no.1 singer in India. However, Arijit Singh is also widely loved and cherished as the current number one male singer in India.
No. 1 Singer in India: Top 10 Legendary Voices
Written By Gitika Chadha
Reviewed By: Khushi Choudhary
India’s musical landscape, dominated by Bollywood, is built on legendary voices spanning decades of emotional, versatile, and iconic performances. From the unmatched Nightingale, Lata Mangeshkar, to versatile geniuses like Kishore Kumar and Mohd Rafi, and contemporary stars like Arijit Singh and Shreya Ghoshal, these top 10 singers have defined generations.
Quick Answer:
Based on their immense, lasting impact on Indian music, popularity across generations, and vocal versatility, Lata Mangeshkar remains the no.1 singer in India. Following her, Kishor Kumar, Asha Bhosle, Mohammed Rafi, and many more secured their name in the list.
Who is the No.1 Singer In India?
Lata Mangeshkar was widely regarded as the all-time No. 1 singer in India. She was known and regarded as the ‘Nightingale of India’ with over 50,000 songs. Lata ji had an unparalleled seven-decade career. Her mastery of pitch, versatility, emotional depth, and crystalline voice allowed her to define the sound of Indian cinema across generations. She has set an unmatched benchmark for quality and longevity.
Let’s find out the 10 best Indian singers of all time.
10 Best Indian Singers of All Time
Choosing the best diamond from the collection of jewels is a Herculean task, and the same goes for picking the No. 1 singer in the world or in India. There are so many music legends in the country who have not just made an impression on the domestic audience but also achieved praise from the international music industry and fans. Amongst all the names we have mentioned below, Lata Mangeshkar is undoubtedly the best Indian singer of all time. With a career spanning almost 80 years, Lata Mangeshkar’s impact on the Indian music scene is way above anyone else.
Here are some of the most loved, followed, streamed, and respected singers of the music industry who have left an indelible mark on our hearts:
1. Lata Mangeshkar
Nightingale of India, Lata Mangeshkar, was born on 28 September 1929 in Indore. Singing more than 50,000 songs, Lata Mangeshkar is considered to be the No. 1 singer in Indian history. In her 7-decade-long career, Lata Ji delivered thousands of hits in 36 Indian languages, though primarily in Hindi, Bengali, and Marathi.
She left the world on 6 February 2022, leaving her unmatchable charm behind. Her ethereal voice gave life to many lyrics that will be remembered for eternity.
| Popular Songs | Luka Chuppi, Lag Jaa Gale, O Paalanhaare, Yeh Galiyan Yeh Chaubara, Dekha Ek Khwab, Tere Liye, Aaj Phir Jeene Ki, Ek Pyaar Ka Nagma Hai, Dil To Pagal Hai, Do Pal, Lo Chali Main, Humko Humise Chura Lo, etc. |
| Net Worth | At the time of her passing in 2022, ₹ 350 crore to ₹ 370 crore (approximately $50 million). |
| Awards | Bharat Ratna in 2001 Padma Bhushan in 1969 Padma Vibhushan in 1999 Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1989 Maharashtra Bhushan Award in 1997 Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1994 Filmfare Best Female Playback Award for 4 times National Film Award for 3 times Bengal Film Journalists’ Association Awards for 15 times Zee Cine Awards for Lifetime Achievements in 1999 |
2. Kishore Kumar
Born on 4 August 1929, Kishore Kumar was a dynamic and influential playback singer, musician, and actor. In addition to Hindi, he recorded songs in Bengali, Marathi, Gujarati, Malayalam, Odia, and Urdu. He gained huge popularity for his yodeling and ability to sing in multiple voices.
From his soulful melodies to peppy tunes, every song has a unique impact on listeners. Apart from Bollywood songs, Kumar also delivered several bhajans, ghazals, and qawwalis. He left the world on 13 October 1987 due to a heart attack.
| Popular Songs | Roop Tera Mastana, Khaike Paan Banaras Wala, Pag Ghungroo Baandh, Chingari Koi Bhadke, Zindagi Ek Safar, Chhookar Mere Mann Ko, Inteha Ho Gayi, Dekha Ek Khwab, O Mere Dil Ke Chain, Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas, Chala Jata Hoon, Kiska Rasta Dekhe, etc. |
| Net Worth | Not mentioned publicly. |
| Awards | Filmfare Awards 8 times Bengal Film Journalists’ Association Awards for 4 times Lata Mangeshkar Award |
3. Asha Bhosle
Asha Bhosle was born on 8 September 1933 in Indore. Having roots in the musical family, she is known for her soprano voice range and versatility. In her career spanning over 8 decades, Asha Ji delivered songs in multiple languages and genres, including film, pop, ghazals, folk songs, qawwalis, Indian classical music, gurbani, and others.
She also holds the Guinness Book of World Records for being the most-recorded artist in music history. Her collaboration with music directors like O.P. Nayyar, Ravi, SD Burman, RD Burman, Bappi Lahiri, A. R. Rahman, Jaidev, Shankar-Jaikishan, etc., gave numerous hits and left a remarkable imprint across generations.
| Popular Songs | Dil Cheez Kya Hai, Mera Kuchh Samaan, Radha Kaise Na Jale, Dum Maro Dum, Sapne Mein, Zara Sa Jhoom Loon Main, Mujhe Naulakha Manga De Re, Kajra Mohabbat Wala, Khatouba, Abhi na Jaao Chhod Kar, etc. |
| Net Worth | ₹ 80 crore to ₹ 100 crore ($8.6 to $10.8 million) |
| Awards | Padma Vibhushan in 2008 Maharashtra Bhushan in 2021 Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2000 National Film Award for 2 times Filmfare Best Female Playback Singer for 7 times Special Award in 1996 Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 2001 National Film Awards for 2 times IIFA Awards in 2002 Nightingale of Asia Award in 1987 Lata Mangeshkar Award MTV Award in 1997 Zee Cine Award for Hall of Fame in 2002 |
4. Mohammed Rafi
Mohammed Rafi was one of the most popular playback singers in Indian music history. Born on 24 December 1924, he delivered songs for thousands of Hindi films along with Urdu, Punjabi, Konkani, Marathi, Odia, Bangla, Sindhi, and many more. Rafi was highly versatile and recorded various fast, peppy numbers, patriotic songs, sad numbers, qawwalis, ghazals, bhajans, classical songs, etc.
In 2001, he was honored with the Best Singer of the Millennium by Hero Honda and Stardust magazine. He took his last breath on July 31, 1980, and left a wide collection of his melodious songs.
| Popular Songs | Kya Hua Tera Wada, Chaudhvin Ka Chand Ho, Husnwale Tera Jawab Nahin, Ehsan Tera Hoga Mujh Par, Likhe Jo Khat Tujhe, Chahunga Main Tujhe, Baharo Phool Barsao, Isharo Isharo Mein Dil Lenewale, Dard-e-dil Dard-e-jigar, Aaj Mausam Bada Beimaan Hai, etc. |
| Net Worth | As of 1980, ₹ 3 crores ($324,500) |
| Awards | Padma Shri in 1967 National Film Awards in 1977 Filmfare Awards 6 times Bengal Film Journalists’ Association Awards for 3 times Sur Singer Awards in 1964 |
5. S P Balasubrahmanyam
Sripathi Panditaradhyula Balasubrahmanyam (4 June 1946 to 25 September 2020) was a legendary playback singer, actor, composer, dubbing artist, and film producer. Born in a Tamil family with a strong musical background, SPB recorded songs in 16+ languages. He made a record by delivering 28 songs in Kannada, along with 19 in Tamil and 16 in Hindi, in a single day.
| Popular Songs | Jagadananda Karaka, Chumma Kizhi, Tere Mere Beech Mein, Vedam Anuvanuvuna, Thanga Thamarai, Hum Aapke Hain Koun, Dil Deewana, Indiramma, Wah Wah Ramji, Mere Rang Mein Rangne Wali, Aaja Saam Hone Aaee, etc. |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed. |
| Awards | Padma Shri in 2001 Karnataka Rajyothsava Award in 2008 Padma Bhushan in 2011 Padma Vibhushan in 2021 National Film Awards 6 times Filmfare Awards in 1989 Filmfare South Awards for 4 times Nandi Awards 25 times Tamil Nadu State Film Awards for 4 times Karnataka State Film Awards for 3 times Lata Mangeshkar Award in 1999 |
6. A. R. Rahman
Allah Rakha Rahman is one of India’s no. 1 singer, composers, record producers, songwriters, and musicians. He has delivered a long list of unforgettable songs in the Hindi and Tamil film industries, along with some forays into international cinema. He also runs an in-house studio, Panchathan Records Inn, and AM Studios.
Rahman began his career with the Tamil film Roja and got international praise for his music in Slumdog Millionaire (2008). He has also been featured in the Time list of the world’s 100 most influential people in 2009.
| Popular Songs | Rangeela, Doli Saja Ke Rakhna, Kun Faya Kun, Dil Se.., Taal, Maa Tujhe Salaam, Raanjhanaa, Jai Ho, Roja, Muzumathi, The Humma Song, Piya Haji Ali, Muqabala Muqabala, Ramta Jogi, Patakha Guddi, Tu Hai, Nadaan Parinde, Maahi Ve, Chanda Re Chanda Re, Aye Udi Udi Udi, etc. |
| Net Worth | ₹ 2000 crore to ₹ 2100 crore ($216 million) |
| Awards | Padma Shri in 2000 National Lata Mangeshkar Award in 2004 Padma Bhushan in 2010 Academy Award for 2 times British Academy of Film and Television Arts in 2009 National Film Award 7 times Critics’ Choice Awards for 2 times Filmfare Awards 15 times Filmfare Awards South 18 times IIFA Awards for 16 times IIFA Utsavam for 3 times Golden Globes in 2009 Grammy Awards for 2 times Zee Cine Awards for 7 times Screen Awards for 9 times Mirchi Music Awards 19 times |
7. Alka Yagnik
Listed among the most prolific singers, Alka Yagnik was born on 20 March 1966 in Kolkata. In her four-decade-long career, she has recorded over 22 thousand songs in 25 different languages. Known for her heartfelt romantic, seductive, peppy, and item numbers. Alka Ji sang most of the duet with Kumar Sanu, Udit Narayan, and Sonu Nigam.
She topped YouTube’s Music Charts & Insights list of top global artists as of June 2024. Furthermore, in 2022, Yagnik also set the Guinness World Record with 15.3 billion YouTube views and became the most listened-to artist in Pakistan.
| Popular Songs | Ek Do Teen, Choli Ke Peeche, Taal Se Taal, Dil Ne Yeh Kaha Hai Dil Se, O Re Chhori, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, San San Sana, Tumhi Dekho Na, Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna, Agar Tum Saath Ho, Udja Kale Kawan, Pardesi Pardesi, etc. |
| Net Worth | ₹ 60 crore to ₹ 68 crore ($7.3 million) |
| Awards | Filmfare Awards 7 times National Film Awards for 2 times Lata Mangeshkar Award in 2013 Bollywood Movie Awards for 4 times Global Indian Film Awards in 2007 Zee Cine Awards for 4 times Screen Awards for 4 times International Indian Film Academy Awards for 2 times Bengal Film Journalists Association Awards for 2 times Sansui Awards for 2 times |
8. Arijit Singh
Arijit Singh, a playback singer and music composer who gained huge popularity for his contemporary Bollywood music. During his early days, he worked as a music programmer and music producer and made his Bollywood debut with the Phir Mohabbat song, composed by Mithoon. He got his breakthrough with Aashiqui 2’s song Tum Hi Ho, which became a romantic sensation and won him several awards.
| Popular Songs | Binte Dil, Kesariya, Roke Na Ruke, Sooraj Dooba Hai, Ae Dil Hai Miushkil, Ae Watan, Kalank, Bolna, Muskurane, Bhaabo Jodi, Hawayein, Phir Le Aaya Dil, Tum Hi Ho, Rait Zara Si, Hamari Adhuri Kahani, Phir Bhi Tumko Chahunga, etc. |
| Net Worth | ₹ 414 crore ($50 million) as of 2026 |
| Awards | National Film Awards for 2 times Filmfare Awards 7 times Filmfare Awards Bangla for 3 times IIFA Awards for 5 times GiMA Awards for 5 times Mirchi Music Awards 27 times Zee Cine Awards for 6 times RMIM Puraskaar 26 times Screen Awards for 4 times |
9. Shreya Ghoshal
Referred to as the Queen of Dynamics, Shreya Ghoshal was born on 12 March 1984 in Murshidabad, West Bengal. Undoubtedly, she is one of the greatest vocalists of all time, singing in filmi, Indian pop, bhajan, classical, electronic, ghazal, sufi, folk, thumri, and other genres.
Shreya made her Bollywood debut with the 2002 classic hit Devdas after winning the reality show Sa Re Ga Ma Pa. Her songs Bairi Piya and Dola Re Dola became instant hits and won her the National Film Awards.
In the cities of Cincinnati, Austin, and Ohio, the government has also declared Shreya Ghoshal Day. She has been featured on the Forbes list of the 100 celebrities from India five times.
| Popular Songs | Bairi Piya, Yeh Ishq Hai, Pherari Mon, Jeev Rangla, Dola Re Dola, Jaadu Hai Nasha Hai, Piyu Bole, Barso Re, Teri Meri, Mere Dholna, Sunn Raha Hai, Agar Tum Mil Jao, Saans, Deewani Mastani, Ghoomar, Suna Suna, Ghar More Pardesiya, Ve Kamleya, etc. |
| Net Worth | Around ₹ 172 crore to ₹ 270 crore ($ 18 million to $29 million) |
| Awards | National Film Awards for 5 times Kerala State Film Awards for 4 times Tamil Nadu State Film Awards for 2 times Filmfare Awards 7 times Filmfare Awards South 10 times IIFA Awards for 9 times Mirchi Music Awards 20 times RMIM Puraskar 21 times GiMA Awards for 3 times Screen Awards for 7 times Zee Cine Awards for 8 times Bengal Film Journalists’ Association Awards for 2 times Guild Awards for 4 times Annual Central European Awards for 4 times |
10. Sunidhi Chauhan
Delhi-born Sunidhi Chauhan is a true music sensation in India. Born on 14 August 1983, she made her singing debut at 13 with the film Shastra and also won the singing reality show titled Meri Awaz Suno. In her passionate and gentle voice, she has delivered several Bollywood hits with acclaimed music directors like AR Rahman, Vishal-Shekhar, and Pritam.
Known for experimenting with her style and image, Sunidhi has also shown her smooth dance moves in her concerts and recent title, Aankh. She has been bestowed several awards and honors and has also been featured on the Forbes Celebrity 100 of India for four consecutive years (2012-2015).
| Popular Songs | Dhoom Machale, Beedi Jalaile, Ishq Sufiyana, Mahi Ve, Sheila Ki Jawani, Gun Gun Guna, Aaja Nachle, Ae Watan, Manwaa, Mere Haath Mein, Kamli, Chokra Jawaan, Crazy Kiya Re, Ainvayi Ainvayi, Ra Ra Rakkamma, etc. |
| Net Worth | ₹ 100- ₹ 110 crore ($ 12 to $ 15 million) |
| Awards | Filmfare Awards for 3 times Filmfare Awards South in 2023 IIFA for 2 times Annual Central European Bollywood Awards in 2007 Screen Awards for 2 times Zee Cine Awards in 2005 Global Indian Film Awards in 2005 Mirchi Music Awards in 2011 |
Some Other Renowned Singers in India
There is always a heated debate among fans about who is no. 1 singer in India. And there are still many names that also deserve to be among the top. Some of them include:
1. Sonu Nigam
Sonu Nigam is amongst the most versatile and famous singers in India, who sings predominantly in Hindi and Kannada. He has recorded 4000+ songs, including several all-time hits such as Sandese Aate Hai, Abhi Mujh Mein Kahin, Papa Mere Papa, Aone, Tumse Milke Dil Ka, Bole Chudiyan, Sapna Jahan, etc. He has also been honored with Padma Shri, one National Film Award, 2 Filmfare, 2 Filmfare South, and 4 IIFA.
2. Krishnakumar Kunnath
Krishnakumar Kunnath, aka KK, was one of the most celebrated singers, a recipient of two Screen Awards and several nominations of Filmfare. He has given multiple blockbusters in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada.
Some evergreen songs of KK are Zindagi Do Pal Ki, Ankhon Mein Teri, Dil Kyun Yeh Mera, Alvida, Tu Jo Mila, Tadap Tadap, Tu Hi Meri Shab Hai, Khuda Jaane, Yaaron, Piya Aaye Na, and many more. Unfortunately, he left the world on 31 May 2022 due to cardiac arrest.
3. Udit Narayan
Udit Narayan Jha has recorded songs in 13 languages and received four National Film Awards, 5 Filmfare, Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri, and several other awards and honors. Some of his top songs include Udja Kaale Kawan, Tujhko Na Dekhu, Pardesi Pardesi, Mera Rang De Basanti Chola, Laal Dupatta, Teri Ungli Pakad Chala, Dholida, Do Anjaane Ajnabi, Tu Chiz Badi Mast Mast, Radha, etc.
4. Kumar Sanu
Kumar Sanu, another well-known singer of the 90s, has delivered songs in 18 languages and holds the Guinness World Record for recording 28 songs in a single day. He also won 5 consecutive Filmfare awards from 1991 to 1995.
Some of his melodious hits include Jab Koi Baat Bigad Jaye, Mera Dil Bhi Kitna Pagal Hai, Ae Kash Ke Hum, Nazar Ke Saamne, Ladki Badi Anjani Hai, Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan, Ek Din Aap, Ek Ladki Ko Dekha, Do Dil Mil Rahe, etc.
5. Javed Ali
Javed Ali’s songs are true eargasm, including Tu HI Haqeeqat, Tum Tak, Srivalli, Guzarish, Kun Faya Kun, Jashn-e-Bahaaraa, Arziyan, Saude Bazi, Ek Din Teri Raahon, Kajra Re, Tu Jo Mila, and thousands of others. He has won IIFA, Screen Awards, Mirchi Music Awards, and many more for his work.
Let’s Wrap Up!
Filled with diversity, talent, and soulful voices, each artist has left a great impact on the Indian music industry. The list mentioned above was prepared after checking all the awards and nominations, popularity, contribution to music, and several other factors. These singers span generations and genres, and all of them definitely claim the position of no. 1 singer in India.
Author’s Note
I have tried jotting down the no.1 singer in India, keeping in mind the fairness and justice to all the generations. Lata Mangeshkar tops the list of being the most loved and the most evergreen singer in the rich musical history of India. Following her legacy, singers like Shreya Ghoshal, Arijit Singh, and Sunidhi Chauhan made their way to the top. Hopefully, I have done justice while answering your doubt! So, without falling into a debate, let’s respect music and enjoy our favorite singers on loop!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the no. 1 singer in India?
Who is the no. 1 female singer in India?
Shreya Ghoshal is widely regarded as India’s number one female playback singer, celebrated for her immense versatility, classical training, and record-breaking 10 IIFA Awards.
Who is the king of romantic songs in India?
Arijit Singh is currently considered the king of romantic songs in India. However, the evergreen king of romantic songs remains Kishore Kumar.
Give some emerging singers’ names in India?
Singers like Hansika Pareek, Ritviz, Prateek Kuhad, Anuv Jain, Jasleen Royal, Lisa Mishra, etc., are some emerging names in the Indian music industry, as of 2026.
Who is the highest-paid singer in India?
- Highest Paid Singer (Overall): A.R. Rahman (₹ 1,800 Crore net worth).
- Highest Paid Live Performer: Arijit Singh (₹ 14 Crore per 2-hour show).
- Highest Paid Female Singer: Shreya Ghoshal (approx. ₹ 25 lakh per song).
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