Aparna Rajeev: The Musical Journey of a Versatile Playback Singer and Ghazal Artist

Aparna Rajeev, known for her soulful voice and versatility in both playback singing and ghazal performances, has carved a unique place in Malayalam cinema. Born on February 8, 1986, in Kochi, Kerala, Aparna’s passion for music was evident from a young age. Granddaughter of the celebrated Malayalam poet and lyricist O.N.V. Kurup, Aparna was raised in an environment that valued culture, literature, and music, a background that greatly influenced her artistic journey.

Aparna Rajeev Biography, Wiki, Age, Height, Caste, Husband, Salary and Photos

NameAparna Rajeev
NicknameAparna
ProfessionSinger
Height (approx.)in centimeters—update soon
Weight (approx.)in kilograms—Update Soon
Date of BirthUpdate Soon
Birth PlaceUpdate Soon
Zodiac sign/Sun signNot Known
NationalityIndian
HometownKerala
SchoolUpdate Soon
College/UniversityUpdate Soon
Educational QualificationPost Graduate
EthnicityIndian
AddressUpdate Soon
Hobbies/InterestsNot Known
Marital StatusMarried
Affairs/Boyfriends/GirlfriendsN/A
ParentsFather: Update Soon
Mother: Update Soon
SiblingsBrother: Update Soon
Sister: Update Soon
Husband/Wife/SpouseUpdate Soon
ChildrenUpdate Soon
Net WorthUpdate Soon

Early Life and Musical Roots

Aparna grew up in Thiruvananthapuram, where she attended Carmel Convent and Holy Angels Convent for her schooling. Her parents, Rajeev, a music composer, and Devika, a banker, were supportive of her early interest in music, encouraging her to pursue it with dedication. Rajeev’s own background in music provided a nurturing space for Aparna to explore her talents, laying the foundation for what would become a successful career. From the age of six, she was actively participating in youth festivals and school competitions, winning accolades for her performances.

Training and Musical Influences

At just seven, Aparna began her formal training in Carnatic music under the tutelage of Smt. Omanakutty, a renowned Carnatic musician, and later with Shri Alappuzha Sreekumar. Her musical education didn’t stop there; she also pursued Hindustani vocal training under Shri Fayas Khan and Pandit Ramesh Narayan, adding depth and versatility to her voice. In recent years, she further refined her skills under the guidance of Smt. Abhadrutha Banerjee, allowing her to gain a well-rounded foundation in both classical Indian music traditions.

Aparna’s continuous commitment to her musical development reflects her passion for exploring diverse forms and styles, blending the purity of Carnatic and Hindustani classical music with modern playback singing.

Career Beginnings and Reality Show Success

Aparna’s entry into the limelight began when she was selected as a finalist in Voice of the Week, the first music reality show by Asianet. Her appearance on the show showcased her talent to a wider audience, and her ability to captivate with her voice paved the way for more opportunities. Soon after, Aparna was chosen to co-anchor two popular Malayalam television shows: Ma Ga Ri Sa, a unique music quiz show for children, and Gandharva Sangeetham, which she hosted alongside the veteran playback singer G. Venugopal. This television presence solidified her position as a young, promising artist in the industry.

Social Media Accounts

Facebook@aparnarajeevonv
Instagram@aparnarajeev_official/
TwitterUpdate Soon
YoutubeUpdate Soon
Email IDUpdate Soon

Award-Winning Performances and Notable Songs

In 2009, Aparna’s song Manjutharasree, composed by V. Dakshinamoorthy for the film Mizhikal Sakshi, earned her critical acclaim. The song won her the Kerala Film Critics Award for Best Playback Singer, the World Malayalee Council Award, and a Kala Kerala Award, cementing her status as one of the leading playback singers of her time. Additionally, she was nominated for the Best Female Playback Singer (South) at the Filmfare Awards that same year.

Aparna continued to make her mark, and in 2016, she was honored with the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Academy Award for Best Female Singer in the professional drama category. These accolades not only recognize her skill but also her dedication to her craft and her willingness to explore new musical styles.

Exploring Ghazals and Honoring Musical Legends

Aparna’s deep love for ghazals has been a defining feature of her career. Fascinated by the nuances and emotions that ghazals convey, she began incorporating this genre into her performances. In 2016, she had the honor of performing a ghazal tribute to the legendary Ghulam Ali at an event in Thiruvananthapuram, a moment that stands out in her career. She has since performed at several prestigious events, including the renowned Soorya Festival, where her ghazal renditions received wide acclaim.

Personal Life and Education

Beyond her musical career, Aparna Rajeev holds a degree from Mar Ivanios College and a postgraduate degree in management from the Asian School of Business. Her academic background complements her artistic pursuits, equipping her with skills that have likely helped her navigate the challenges of the entertainment industry.

Aparna is married to Siddharth Premkumar, a journalist, and they have two children. Despite her busy career, she balances her personal and professional life, a testament to her dedication both as an artist and a family person.

Collaborations and Experimentation

Aparna’s career is marked by her openness to experimentation and collaboration. She has not only sung for Malayalam films but has also lent her voice to a Hindi short film, Purani Ye Dhun, under the music direction of Grammy-winning musician Shri Vishwa Mohan Bhatt. This cross-cultural experience allowed her to reach new audiences and expand her musical repertoire.

Continuing Legacy of O.N.V. Kurup

As the granddaughter of O.N.V. Kurup, Aparna carries forward a rich legacy of artistic excellence. Her grandfather’s influence is evident in her work, particularly in her dedication to upholding the beauty and integrity of Malayalam music. Aparna’s journey is a continuation of her family’s contribution to Kerala’s cultural landscape, and she honors this legacy by delivering each performance with sincerity and respect for the art.

The Path Ahead

Aparna Rajeev’s journey is far from over. With each new project, she continues to demonstrate her versatility and passion for music. Her performances, whether on stage, on television, or in recording studios, highlight her commitment to creating meaningful music that resonates with audiences. As she continues to explore different genres and collaborate with diverse artists, Aparna remains a prominent figure in the Malayalam music industry.

From her early years in youth festivals to her celebrated performances in playback singing and ghazals, Aparna Rajeev’s story is one of dedication, resilience, and a genuine love for music. Her ability to connect with listeners through her voice, combined with her dedication to her craft, ensures that she will remain a respected and cherished artist for years to come.

Leave a Comment