Sufi singer Kailash Kher's journey to stardom did not begin with music at all. It began with a failed business, a bout of depression, and a trip to Rishikesh that changed the course of his life. Today he has lent his voice to more than 700 songs across over 20 languages, but getting there meant losing almost everything first.
A Childhood Steeped in Music
Kailash Kher was born on July 7, 1973, in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. His father, Mehar Singh Kher, was a folk singer, so music was part of the household from the very start. Growing up surrounded by rhythm and melody naturally pulled young Kailash toward music, but he chose to begin his career in business rather than singing.
A Failed Business and a Descent Into Depression
Kher partnered with a friend to start a handicraft export business, hoping it would set him up financially. Instead, the venture collapsed completely, leaving him with heavy financial losses. The setback did not just hurt his finances, it took a toll on his mental health too, and Kher slid into depression, feeling as though he was falling apart from within.
A Trip to Rishikesh Changed Everything
To pull himself out of that dark phase, Kher stepped away from Mumbai and his business and travelled to Rishikesh. There, he spent time on the banks of the Ganga among sadhus, immersing himself in bhajans, kirtans and the spiritual atmosphere of the place. That period gave him fresh energy and helped him put himself back together. It was during this time that he decided to dedicate the rest of his life entirely to music.
A Fresh Start in Mumbai
In 2001, Kailash Kher returned to Mumbai, this time to build a career in music rather than business. The early days were far from easy. He sang jingles for advertisements and took on small projects to establish himself, and gradually his powerful voice began reaching people in the music industry, opening doors to sing for films.
'Rabba Ishq Na Hove' Brought Recognition, Then Overnight Stardom
Kher's first big break came with the song 'Rabba Ishq Na Hove' from the film 'Andaz'. That helped him find a foothold in the film industry. What followed was 'Allah Ke Bande Hans De', a song that gave him recognition across the country. It became so popular that Kher turned into a star almost overnight. He went on to sing several other superhit songs, including 'Teri Deewani', 'Saiyaan', 'Bam Lahri' and 'Jai Jaikara'.
The Band 'Kailasa' and Over 700 Songs
To carve out his own identity, Kher formed his own band called 'Kailasa', through which he brought Sufi and folk music to listeners in a fresh, contemporary style. He has since lent his voice to more than 700 songs in over 20 languages, including Hindi, and has performed thousands of live concerts in India and abroad, drawing large crowds wherever he has sung.
A Padma Shri and Several Major Honours
In recognition of his contribution to music, the Government of India honoured Kher with the Padma Shri. He has also won several other major awards, including a Filmfare award. Beyond Bollywood, he has carved out a distinct identity in devotional, Sufi and folk music, and songs like 'Teri Deewani', 'Saiyaan', 'Allah Ke Bande', 'Bam Lahri' and 'Jai Jaikara' remain part of listeners' playlists to this day.
From Rock Bottom to Stardom
Kailash Kher's story is a reminder that no matter how difficult circumstances get, life offers another chance to those who hold on to courage and passion. His journey from a failed business and depression to becoming a leading name in Sufi music continues to inspire people even today.
