In Bhojpuri cinema, while male singers like Khesari Lal Yadav and Pawan Singh often take center stage, female artists like the late Sharda Sinha and Kalpana Patowary have created a strong impact. Kalpana Patowary, who began her singing career around 2000, has remained a celebrated figure in the Bhojpuri music world.
Born in Assam, the 46-year-old Kalpana Patowary was educated there, obtaining a degree in English Literature. She further pursued her passion for music, studying classical music at Lucknow University. Her debut in Bhojpuri cinema paved the way for numerous music albums. Here are five of her most famous songs:
‘Ago Chumma Le La Rajaji’: This song was released in 2005 and uploaded to the T-Series Hamaar Bhojpuri YouTube channel 13 years ago. Kalpana Patowary sang this song, with music direction by Rajesh Gupta. The music video was directed by Deep Shreshtha. It continues to be widely appreciated in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
‘Jab Se Chadhal Ba Jawani’: This hit song was included in the 2008 album ‘Haye Re Nathuniya’ and was later uploaded to the Wave Music YouTube channel in 2016. Vinay Bihari wrote the lyrics, and Rajesh Gupta was the music director. The music video was directed by Raj Kumar Rahul.
‘Maroon Color Sadiya’: This song was part of the 2024 film ‘Fasal’ featuring Dinesh Lal Yadav and Aamrapali Dubey. Sung by Kalpana Patowary and Neelkamal Singh, it gained enormous popularity on YouTube.
‘Jekar Achake Mein Dilwa Toot Gail’: From the 2010 film ‘Sawariya I Love You’, this song features Kalpana Patowary’s vocals and lyrics by Pyarelal Yadav. Aman Shlok composed the music. The song is available on the YouTube channel Music Box Kalpana, which is Kalpana Patowary’s official YouTube channel.
‘Marbo Re Sugwa’: Among the many Chhath Puja songs by Kalpana Patowary, ‘Marbo Re Sugwa Dhanush Se’ stands out. Available on her YouTube channel, Music Box Kalpana, the song features Kalpana’s vocals, with lyrics by R.R. Pankaj.