Suresh Ishwar Wadkar

🎼 Early Life and Training

Suresh Wadkar was born in Kolhapur and raised in Mumbai. He started his musical journey at a young age and trained in Indian classical music at Arya Vidya Mandir and Sangeet Natak Academy. He later became a student of Acharya Jialal Vasant, a noted music guru.

He began his career as a music teacher before being discovered for his exceptional vocal talent.

🌟 Breakthrough and Career

Suresh Wadkar’s career took off when he won the Sur-Singar competition in 1976, judged by legendary music directors Jaidev and Ravindra Jain. This led to opportunities in Bollywood playback singing.

He became famous for his soulful voice, known for depth, emotion, and classical finesse. He has sung for top composers like R.D. Burman, Laxmikant-Pyarelal, Kalyanji-Anandji, A.R. Rahman, and many others.

🎶 Popular Songs

Some of his evergreen hits include:

Tumse Milke Aisa Laga (Parinda)

Seene Mein Jalan (Gaman)

Megha Re Megha Re (Pyaasa Sawan)

Surmayee Ankhiyon Mein (Sadma)

Ae Zindagi Gale Laga Le (Sadma)

Chappa Chappa Charkha Chale (Maachis)

He has also sung bhajans, Marathi abhangs, and devotional songs with great devotion and popularity.

🏅 Awards and Recognition

Padma Shri – Awarded in 2020 by the Government of India

National Film Award – Best Male Playback Singer (Special Jury)

Multiple state and industry awards for contribution to Indian music

📚 Music Education and Social Work

Founder of Ajivasan Music Academy (Mumbai & USA), which teaches Indian classical and light music

Devoted to spreading traditional music education globally

Actively participates in cultural, spiritual, and musical events across India and abroad