Satinder Sartaaj has two identities, really; one is that of a singer, poet, and actor from Punjab, while the other involves the cruelly ironic combination of Sufi singing and Gurmukhi language singing that, until now, no one else could call easy and place in Punjabi culture. Besides his musical interests, he is also engaged in academics, holding a Doctorate (PhD) in Sufi Poetry from Punjab University, Chandigarh. With that wonderful combination of education and art, he can hardly fail to stand tall among the greatest musicians in Punjabi.
Early Life and Age
Satinder Sartaaj was born on 31 August 1982 in Bajrawar village of Hoshiarpur in Punjab. As of 2023, he is 41 years old with the sun sign being Virgo. From a small farming family, he grew up in an essentially rural ambiance, tending his father’s fields while simultaneously pursuing his education. Such early contact with the folk culture of Punjab in itself was something that attracted him towards poetry and singing.
Physical Appearance
His height stands around 5’6″ (168 cm) and he weighs approximately 58 kg. He has dark brown eyes and black hair, usually attired with a Sikh turban adorning the top of his head in keeping with the deep cultural and spiritual roots of the man. The dress and demeanor reflect his leaning toward Sufi philosophy that is foremost in his music and poetry.
Education
Highly accomplished academically, Satinder began his schooling in Government Primary School, Bajrawar, and later studied in nearby villages. He graduated with Music Honors from Government College, Hoshiarpur, and went on to pursue a Master’s and M.Phil. in Music from Punjab University, Chandigarh.
He later joined Punjab University as a lecturer in the Music Faculty and completed his PhD in Sufi Poetry. Additionally, he earned a diploma in classical music from Sangeet Visharad, Jalandhar, showcasing his dedication to learning the depth of music.
Personal Life – Wife and Family
Satinder comes from a small Punjabi family. His father, Balwinder Singh, was a farmer, while details about his mother remain private. He also has one brother.
Sartaaj is married to Gauri, an environmentalist whom he met during his PhD years. Their bond grew stronger during their academic journey, and they tied the knot on 9 December 2010 at the Taj Hotel, Chandigarh. The couple continues to support each other in their respective fields.
Career Journey
Satinder’s musical journey began in childhood when he sang at local events. Initially, he shared his songs on YouTube, which led to his first international invitation in 2008 to Ontario, Canada. The big break came for him when his self-titled album “Sartaaj” was released in 2010, and when the track “Sai” became immensely popular.
Over the years, Sartaaj has released other albums like Ibadat (2009), Rangrez (2014), Seasons of Sartaaj (2018), Shayrana Sartaaj (2023), and countless singles that have established him as one of the greatest Punjabi Sufi singers of modern times.
His first acting appearance came at the global level with the 2017 Hollywood film “The Black Prince,” portraying Maharaja Duleep Singh. He, thereafter, appeared in Punjabi films like Ikko Mikke (2020) and Kali Jotta (2023).
Net Worth
Sartaaj has amassed a net worth of $5 million through his career in singing, poetry, live concerts, and films. Further instances of income are his experienced international tours to countries such as Canada, Australia, and the UAE, besides brand endorsements and live concerts.
Social Media and Influence
Social media played a gigantic role in his career, making it a stepping stone for his later success. Today, he boasts millions of followers on various platforms:
Instagram: @satindersartaaj
Facebook: @SatinderSartaaj
Twitter (X): @SufiSartaaj
Interesting Facts
Those are the things he did to found his welfare organization, Sartaaj Foundation.
Declared brand ambassador of Punjab University in 2017.
His personal studio is named “Nazam Gaah”.
Deeply influenced by Sufi poets like Rumi and Shams Tabriz.
Faced a plagiarism controversy in 2010 regarding lyrics, but rose above it.
