Celebrating 23 Years of Devdas: Where Shreya Ghoshal’s musical journey began

23 Years of Devdaas

As the 23rd anniversary of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's monumental film Devdas approaches, both reviewers and viewers are returning to the film's mesmerising imagery, heartbreaking romance, and enduring soundtrack.

Among its many lasting contributions, Devdas changed the face of Bollywood playback singing when it debuted Shreya Ghoshal's transcendent voice in India.

At the tender age of 18, Shreya Ghoshal made an astonishing first appearance on the big screen’s soundtrack, lending her voice to romantic and emotive tracks that became instant classics. Songs like “Silsila Ye Chaahat Ka”, “Bairi Piya”, “Chalak Chalak”, and “Dola Re Dola” showcased her remarkable range — from haunting devotion to playful rhythm.

More impressively, her rendition of “Bairi Piya” earned her the National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer — a rare and prestigious honour for a new artist.

When considering her debut, it could be argued that no other movie offered more musical potential. Shreya's voice was hailed for its emotional resonance, crystalline purity, and delicate yet potent control—qualities that would come to define her in the years that followed.

Shreya Ghoshal has become a national treasure over the last 20 years. Because of her versatility, she has performed in a remarkable range of languages and genres, including heartfelt ballads, upbeat pop songs, and ethereal ghazals and energetic dance numbers. Composers looking for vocal brilliance and emotional authenticity now turn to her first.

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Numerous chart-topping songs have resulted from her collaborations with renowned musicians like Vishal-Shekhar, Pritam, and A.R. Rahman. Shreya's record, which includes numerous National Awards, Filmfare honours, and international recognitions, speaks for itself in the Indian music industry.

In addition to celebrating Devdas' 23rd birthday, we also mark the beginning of Shreya Ghoshal's remarkable career, which has shaped and elevated contemporary Indian music.

Not only was her debut a cinematic moment, but it also marked the beginning of a golden age of playback singing.