Bela Shende

Bela Shende has built a significant presence in Indian playback singing through a career defined by vocal adaptability and culturally rooted expression. Born into a family of musicians in Maharashtra, she represents a strong connection to Indian classical music traditions. Her grandmother, Kusum Shende, was a vocalist of the Kirana Gharana, and her sister, Sawani Shende, is also known in the classical field. Bela pursued formal education in commerce, while simultaneously developing her singing through early training and participation in music competitions. A major early milestone came when she won Zee Sa Re Ga Ma, marking her entry into professional performance.

She has collaborated with leading composers, including Ilaiyaraaja, A. R. Rahman, Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy, Ajay–Atul, and M. M. Keeravaani. Her playback work ranges from devotional and classical-influenced tracks to energetic lavani performances in Marathi cinema. The soundtrack of Natarang established her as a celebrated voice in Maharashtra, with “Apsara Aali” and “Wajle Ki Baara” becoming long-standing cultural favorites. She has also voiced major roles for leading actresses such as Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Priyanka Chopra, and Kangana Ranaut across notable productions , including Jodhaa Akbar, What’s Your Raashee?, and Rajjo.

Her achievements have been recognized with numerous regional and national honors. The highest accolade came in 2014 when she received the National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer for “Khurkhura” from Tuhya Dharma Koncha. With performances across several Indian languages and a catalogue that includes film music, albums, and television soundtracks, Bela Shende continues to contribute actively to Indian classical music-influenced playback, shaping contemporary listening experiences for audiences nationwide.