Sonu Nigam conferred with 2025 Lata Mangeshkar Award in Indore:CM Yadav praised Nigam, says, ‘Everyone is captivated by his velvety voice and talent’

Playback singer Sonu Nigam was awarded the 2024 Lata Mangeshkar Award at a grand ceremony held in Indore on Sunday. The event saw the presence of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav and singer Sonu Nigam, who stayed for nearly an hour during the program. Nigam delighted the audience by performing several popular songs on their request. Reflecting on the honor, Sonu Nigam said, “Thirty years ago, I attended this very program in Indore when the prestigious award was given to the legendary singer Talat Mahmood. Today, three decades later, I am receiving this honor, which is a matter of great pride for me.” He fondly remembered the late Lata Mangeshkar, describing her as a motherly figure whose blessings he still feels upon him. Nigam praised her immense contribution to Indian music. Chief Minister praises Sonu Nigam’s voice Addressing the ceremony, CM Dr. Mohan Yadav lauded Sonu Nigam’s talent, saying, “Everyone is captivated by his velvety voice.” Union Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya was also present and warmly embraced the singer on stage. On the first day of the celebrations, a state-level Lata Mangeshkar Sugam Sangeet competition was organized on Saturday evening, showcasing emerging musical talent. Background of the Lata Mangeshkar award According to Indore Divisional Commissioner Dr. Sudam Khade, Sonu Nigam was chosen for the 2024 award, while the music director trio Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy had been selected for 2025. However, due to their unavailability, the 2025 presentation was postponed, and Nigam received the 2024 honor. The award was instituted in 1984 by the Madhya Pradesh Department of Culture, inspired by Lata Mangeshkar’s legacy, “Swar Kokila,” and the Bharat Ratna. It recognizes artists for outstanding contributions in Indian classical, light, and film music. Sonu Nigam’s musical journey Sonu Nigam, who has sung over 6,000 songs, was born into a musical family. His father, Agam Kumar Nigam, was also a singer who performed at weddings and events to support the family financially. Sonu’s interest in music developed at a very young age. At the age of four, he insisted on singing while his father was performing, astonishing his parents with his passion. His first stage performance was alongside his father, singing the famous Mohammed Rafi song, “Kya Hua Tera Wada.” The sweetness and maturity of his voice surprised everyone present and revealed his hidden talent. Sonu received his initial musical training from his father and gradually performed at fairs, weddings, and other events. Though he once expressed a desire to become a scientist, his deep passion for music remained dominant throughout his life, shaping him into one of India’s most celebrated playback singers. A celebration of legacy and talent The Lata Mangeshkar Award ceremony not only honored Sonu Nigam’s incredible journey and talent but also reinforced the timeless legacy of the “Nightingale of India,” reminding music lovers of the enduring influence of Lata Mangeshkar on Indian music.