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Quick Facts

Born
1963

From
India

Journey

Krishnan Nair Shantakumari Chithra, celebrated worldwide as K.S. Chithra, is one of Indian music’s most enduring and decorated voices. Born in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, her father, musician K.S. Krishnan Nair trained her in Carnatic music, and later studied formally at the Government Music College, Thiruvananthapuram. Affectionately known as the “Nightingale of Kerala,” she has become a defining presence in Indian classical and film music since the late 1970s. Chithra rose to prominence through Malayalam cinema before expanding into Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi, and many other Indian film industries. Her collaborations with Ilaiyaraaja, A.R. Rahman, M.M. Keeravani, Hamsalekha, K.J. Yesudas, and S.P. Balasubrahmanyam produced some of the most beloved songs in modern Indian cinema, including “Kannalane,” “Kehna Hi Kya,” “Uyire,” and “Ovvoru Pookalume.” Her achievements are extraordinary: six National Film Awards for Best Female Playback Singer place her among the most awarded singers in Indian cinema history. The Government of India honored her with the Padma Shri and the Padma Bhushan, recognizing her immense contribution to Indian arts. In 2001, she received the title “Golden Voice of India” at London’s Royal Albert Hall, reflecting the international admiration for her artistry. Beyond film music, Chithra has recorded thousands of devotional, classical, and independent songs in more than twenty Indian languages. Her voice is celebrated for its purity, flawless diction, emotional subtlety, and remarkable adaptability across musical styles. Between 2022 and 2026, she continued to engage contemporary audiences through Lofi Mix releases such as “Nannavalu Nakkare,” “Malle Sooji Mallie,” “O Igo Illondu Manaside,” “O Priya,” and “Pancharangi Pancharangi,” issued through Saregama, Jhankar Music, and Saregama India Ltd. Through decades of recording, concert performance, television appearances, and musical mentorship, K.S. Chithra remains a living institution in Indian music, bridging classical tradition and popular culture with a voice that continues to inspire generations.