Kedarnath Bhattacharya, better known as Kumar Sanu, is an ever-present icon in the Indian music industry. Affectionately titled the “King of Melody”, his voice was the epitome of the 1990’s golden era in Bollywood. With a career that spanned several decades, Sanu has enchanted millions with his over 10,000 song record, which is in 14 different languages, and which has left an indelible mark on musical history.
Early Life and Musical Roots
Born on the 2nd of September 1957, in Kolkata, West Bengal, Kumar Sanu grew up in a culture that has very deep roots in art and heritage. His father, Pashupati Bhattacharya, who was a famous vocalist and composer, also identified his son’s talent for rhythm and tunes at an early age. Under his father’s mentorship, Sanu trained in voice performance and also learned to play musical instruments like the tabla.
After graduating from the University of Calcutta with a degree in Commerce in 1979, Sanu threw himself into music full-time. For years, he performed in local venues, which included support for the great playback singer Kishore Kumar, which in turn inspired him to develop his own unique vocal style.
Physical Appearance
Kumar Sanu is also known for his large physical presence, which in no doubt mirrors his powerful voice. At a height of almost 5’11’’ (180 cm) and a weight that is well managed at 84kg (185 lbs), he is also very healthy and in great shape. His wide brown eyes and rich black hair stand out, and he has a classic air about him that comes from his many years in public view.
Personal Life and Relationships
Jiko, Jassi, and Jaan Kumar Sanu — in that case, he followed in his father’s musical shoes and achieved modern success through TV. They had personal issues that led to his divorce in 1994.
Anna is a talented songwriter, and Shannon K is an international singer.
Career Highlights
In 1987, Kumar Sanu had his big break when legendary ghazal singer Jagjit Singh gave him a go at singing for the film Andhiyan. After moving to Mumbai, it was the veteran music directors Kalyanji and Anandji who suggested he change his stage name from Kedarnath Bhattacharya to “Kumar Sanu”, which they did to widen his mass appeal.
Also, he broke the record in the Guinness World Records for having recorded 28 songs in a single day.
Net Worth, Political Stint
Over the course of decades that saw his success in playback singing, live concert tours, and reality TV judging, Kumar Sanu has achieved great financial success. He has a net worth of about $11 million, which is around Indian Rupees 90 Crores, and this is a result of his constant presence in the industry and large body of work.
Beyond music, Sanu got into politics, which, over the years, saw him associate with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the cause of public welfare. Also very much into philanthropy, which saw the founding of the “Kumar Sanu Vidya Niketan”, a special school that provides quality education and resources to underprivileged children. Also, in the balance of entertainment with social responsibility, Kumar Sanu’s artistic talent and humanitarian works are still global, which he is known for.
