Short Summary
P. Susheela is an acclaimed Indian playback singer renowned for her significant contributions to Indian cinema. With a career spanning over six decades, she has lent her voice to thousands of songs in various Indian languages, primarily Telugu and Tamil. Her melodious voice and exceptional versatility have earned her numerous awards, including national recognition. She is celebrated for her ability to capture the emotional essence of songs, making her a beloved figure in the music industry.
Early Life & Education
P. Susheela was born on November 13, 1935, in Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh, India. She was the daughter of Mukunda Rao, an advocate, and Sheshavatamba. From a young age, she exhibited a deep passion for music, which was nurtured through her family's support. She pursued her education at Maharaja's Music College in Vizianagaram, where she received formal training in classical music. Her education played a pivotal role in shaping her musical sensibilities and laid the foundation for her illustrious career in playback singing.
Career Highlights
P. Susheela began her playback singing career in the early 1950s, quickly gaining recognition for her unique voice. She made her debut with the Tamil film "Petra Thai" in 1952. Over the years, she became a dominant force in the South Indian film industry, delivering numerous hit songs. Her collaboration with legendary music directors like M.S. Viswanathan and Ilaiyaraaja contributed to her success. Her ability to sing in multiple languages, including Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam, further expanded her influence and reach across India.
Major Achievements
- Guinness World Record for the most number of songs recorded by a female playback singer.
- Recipient of the Padma Bhushan, one of India's highest civilian honors, in recognition of her contributions to music.
- Won the National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer five times.
- Received numerous state government awards for her excellence in playback singing.
Famous Quotes
- "Music is the language of the soul, and I am grateful to be its voice."
- "Every song is a new experience, a new story that I get to tell."
Interesting Facts
- She has recorded over 40,000 songs in multiple languages throughout her career.
- P. Susheela was the first female playback singer to win the National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer in 1969.
- She has worked with several generations of music composers and film directors, showcasing her adaptability and enduring appeal.
- Her voice has been an integral part of the golden era of South Indian cinema music.
Legacy / Influence
P. Susheela's legacy lies in her extensive body of work that continues to inspire aspiring singers and music enthusiasts. Her melodious voice and emotive expression have set high standards in playback singing, influencing numerous artists across generations. She has left an indelible mark on the Indian music industry and remains a revered figure for her contributions to the art of playback singing.
FAQ
Q: Why is P. Susheela famous?
A: She is famous for her prolific career as a playback singer, recording thousands of songs across various Indian languages.
Q: How many songs has she recorded?
A: She has recorded over 40,000 songs in multiple languages.
Q: What awards has she received?
A: She has received numerous awards, including the Padma Bhushan and multiple National Film Awards for Best Female Playback Singer.
Q: In which languages has she sung?
A: She has sung in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and several other Indian languages.
