In the annals of Bollywood music, Rekha Bhardwaj’s name evokes instant nostalgia and chills. Celebrating 62 on January 24, her path from a singing toddler to industry stalwart is nothing short of inspirational.
Her repertoire mesmerizes: Omkara’s eerie ‘Lakkad,’ love-lorn ‘Kabira,’ rhythmic ‘Namak Ishq Ka,’ and celebratory ‘Ghaghra.’ This high-octane voice, laced with classical purity, stems from early defiance.
Home radios wailed from sunrise, captivating three-year-old Rekha despite parents’ disdain for music careers. Father’s resolve ensured musical birthdays via gatherings. Thumri lessons at 12, followed by grueling riyaaz, unlocked ghazals as her destiny. Her signature line? ‘My heart was shattered in a past life.’
Talent bloomed in college, where she enthralled with ghazals. 1984 brought Vishal Bhardwaj into her life; marriage in 1991 solidified their bond. Film industry rebuffs tested her, but Vishal’s 2002 release ‘Ishqa Ishqa’ (Gulzar lyrics) signaled promise.
Voiceovers for his films—Chachi 420, Godmother, Jahan Tum Le Chal—gained traction. Omkara’s hits exploded her fame, cementing a legacy. Rekha embodies the artist’s unyielding spirit, her songs eternal bridges to emotion.