Singer Jaspinder Narula has every reason to smile today. The celebrated artist, known for her soulful contributions to Hindi and Punjabi cinema, as well as her deep connection to classical and Sufi music, has been honored with the Padma Shri. It’s India’s fourth-highest civilian award, and for Narula, this is a moment she’ll cherish forever.
“I feel ten feet tall today,” she says with excitement. “It’s the happiest moment of my life.” The award is not just a recognition of her skill but a validation of her hard work. For Narula, this has been a journey of dedication, and she feels incredibly grateful for the recognition.
Jaspinder Narula’s musical career spans decades. She shot to fame with the duet Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha, alongside Remo Fernandes, from the 1998 film Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha. That was just the beginning. Over the years, Narula lent her voice to many iconic songs, including hits from films like Mission Kashmir, Mohabbatein, Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani, and Bunty Aur Babli. Her soulful voice became a familiar presence in the industry.
When asked about the Padma Shri, Narula humbly explains, “Jab mehnat safal hoti hai toh khushi hoti hai. It is my tapasya (dedication) since 50 years. Today, there’s another feather in my cap.” The Padma Shri feels like the culmination of years of hard work and determination. “I am thankful to my government, my well-wishers, the people who love me, and everyone who has supported me,” she adds with genuine gratitude.
Beyond her career in playback singing, Jaspinder Narula is also a well-respected scholar. She completed her PhD in Hindustani classical music from Delhi University in 2008, further proving her depth of knowledge and passion for the art. Despite this academic achievement, she remains deeply humble and grounded.
Looking back on her journey, Narula says, “I always believed that what’s meant to happen, happens at the right time. Jab Ishwar ne likha hai, tab hota hai (When God has written it, it happens).” These words reflect her belief in the divine timing of life’s events. For Narula, music has always been a lifelong love, and it will continue to be. “I was singing all my life and will continue to sing all my life,” she says.
The Padma Shri, however, is not just a personal achievement—it’s a reminder that appreciation matters. Narula believes that awards motivate artists to work even harder. “It’s the recognition of your work that makes you happy. It makes you feel that your efforts have been seen and valued,” she explains.
The world of entertainment can often feel overwhelming, but for someone like Jaspinder Narula, it’s all about the music. Whether it’s through classical ragas or contemporary Bollywood tunes, Narula has left an indelible mark on the music scene. And this latest accolade only solidifies her legacy.
As she continues her musical journey, Jaspinder Narula’s story serves as an inspiration to all artists striving for excellence. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to stay humble despite her success is a testament to her character. With the Padma Shri now in her hands, she has one more reason to be proud of her incredible journey in the world of music.
Her journey is far from over. As she puts it, “There’s still so much more to sing, and I will continue to sing, for as long as I can.”
