Early Life and Family
Anup Jalota, the emperor of Indian devotional music, ghazal singer, and classical musician, has carved a unique identity in the world of Indian music. He was born on 29th July 1953 in Nainital, Uttar Pradesh (now Uttarakhand), India. His full name is Anup Narayan Jalota.

Anup Jalota was born into a music-loving family, where his father Purushottam Das Jalota, a renowned devotional and classical singer himself, became his first guru. His family followed the traditional musical heritage, which inspired him towards music from an early age.

He was brought up in Lucknow, where he also received his early education. Seeing his inclination towards music, his father introduced him to the depths of classical music. Anup Jalota formally studied music at Bhatkhande Music University, Lucknow. Along with music, he excelled in academics as well.

Beginning of Career
Anup Jalota started his career as a child artist with All India Radio (AIR) Lucknow. Initially, he worked as a backup singer and musician in Hindi films and stage shows. After moving to Mumbai, he had to struggle in the music industry, but his hard work and talent eventually earned him a special place in devotional and ghazal singing.

His singing style is simple, heartfelt, and soulful. This is the reason why he was honored with the title of ‘Bhajan Samrat’ (Emperor of Bhajans). He has made significant contributions to bhajan, ghazal, and Sufi music. His popularity is primarily due to the sweetness and simplicity of his bhajans, which touch the listeners’ hearts directly.

Famous Bhajans and Popular Songs
Anup Jalota has lent his voice to thousands of bhajans and ghazals. Some of his famous bhajans include:

• Aisi Lagi Lagan
• Mera Mann Tera Pyaasa
• Rang De Chunariya
• Prabhu Ji Tumhari Kripa Se
• Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murari
• Achyutam Keshavam Krishna Damodaram
• Main Nahin Makhan Khayo

His ghazals are also equally popular, such as:

• Chitthi Na Koi Sandesh
• Lagta Nahin Hai Dil Mera
• Kahin Door Jab Din Dhal Jaye

In his singing style, there is a confluence of devotion and peace that leaves the audience mesmerized. He has given a new dimension to bhajan singing, blending classical and modern presentations uniquely.

Contributions to Film and Television
Anup Jalota has left a special mark not only on stage and recordings but also in films and television. He has done playback singing for many Hindi films. He has also appeared as a judge in various TV reality shows. In 2018, he participated in Bigg Boss Season 12, where he garnered attention for his unique personality and style.

Awards and Honors
Anup Jalota has been honored with many prestigious awards for his contribution to music, including:

• Padma Shri (2012): For his outstanding contribution to the field of arts, awarded by the Government of India.
• Music India Award
• Zee Gold Award
• Sangeet Natak Akademi Award

He has played an important role in popularizing Indian music and bhajans not just in India but also globally. His musical programs have been organized in the USA, Canada, Europe, Middle East, and many other countries.

Personal Life
Anup Jalota’s personal life has also been a topic of discussion. He has been married three times. His first wife was Sonali Sehgal, who was also a ghazal singer alongside him. They later got divorced. His third wife Medha Jalota passed away. He has a son named Aryan Jalota.

In 2018, he was in the limelight due to his alleged relationship with Jasleen Matharu in Bigg Boss 12, although later he clarified that the relationship was just a ‘prank.’

Social Contributions
Anup Jalota is also active in social and religious activities. He has provided spiritual bliss to audiences through his music at various religious and cultural programs. He also contributes to social services and spreads social awareness through his music.

Style and Musical Impact
Anup Jalota’s singing style is a blend of devotion, classical traditions, and spirituality, which makes him stand out from other singers. He has taken bhajan singing to new heights. His contribution is not limited to bhajans only but he has also made his mark in ghazal, Sufi, and folk music.

His singing has attracted the young generation toward devotional music. He has often said that singing bhajans is not just a profession but his spiritual practice. He believes that bhajans provide peace to the soul and a way to connect with the Almighty.

Anup Jalota is a singer in the Indian music industry who has brought devotional music to the masses and given it a new form. His contribution will always be remembered in the music world. His life is an ideal example of music, devotion, and service. His voice continues to echo in the hearts of millions of listeners, providing them with spiritual joy and peace.