Pawan Singh
Pawan Singh is a renowned Indian politician, playback singer, actor, music composer, and stage performer, widely celebrated as one of the most influential stars of the Bhojpuri film industry. Known as the "Power Star," he started out as a harmonium player at neighborhood concerts before becoming well-known as a playback vocalist. He quickly became well-known for his strong voice and exuberant performances, both in Bhojpuri and mainstream Bollywood, where he provided the voice of Stree 2.
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| Pawan Singh in 2025 | |
| Born | 05 January 1986 (age 40) Jokahri village, Arrah, Bihar, India |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Indian |
| Education | Graduate, Maharaja College (Arrah) |
| Alma mater | |
| Occupation | Playback Singer, Actor, Music Composer, Politician |
| Years active | 1997–present |
| Known for | Hit songs like Lollipop Lagelu; Bhojpuri films like Pratigya, Crack Fighter |
| Notable works | Albums: Odhaniya Wali; Films: Rangli Chunariya Tohre Naam, Sher Singh; Bollywood singles (e.g. Kamariya Hila Rahi Hai) |
| Awards | International Bhojpuri Film Awards, others |
| Spouse(s) | |
| Parents | Ramashankar Singh (father) Pratima Devi (mother) |
| Religion | Hinduism |
| Website | |
With a career spanning acting, singing, and composing, Singh has delivered several blockbuster hits and award-winning performances. He has been honored with two International Bhojpuri Film Awards, solidifying his stature as one of the most versatile and celebrated figures in the entertainment industry. Known for his iconic roles in films like Pratigya (2008), Satya (2017), Crack Fighter (2019), Raja (2019), Sher Singh (2019), Mera Bharat Mahaan (2022), and Har Har Gange (2023), Pawan Singh continues to dominate both the stage and screen with his unmatched charisma and talent.
Early Life & Education
Pawan Singh was born on 5 January 1986 in Kolkata, West Bengal, India, into a Hindu Rajput family. His mother, Pratima Devi, was a housewife, and his father, Rama Shankar Singh, was a farmer. He was raised in a modest, traditional home with two older brothers and a sister named Mala Singh.
Singh showed a strong interest in music at a young age. His career as a playback singer started when he started playing the harmonium at stage shows and local gatherings. His family was unwavering in their support of his love of music, even in the face of financial difficulties. According to reports, Singh frequently traveled great distances on a bicycle solely to take part in musical performances and cultural events, demonstrating his tenacity and commitment.
After completing his elementary education in Kolkata, Pawan Singh continued his education in Arrah, Bihar, after his family relocated there. After completing his intermediate education at H.N.K. High School, he went on to Maharaja College in Arrah to complete his degree. His future in the Bhojpuri entertainment industry was ultimately shaped by his ability to successfully balance his studies with his developing musical interests during his academic years.
Career
Music Career
Pawan Singh’s musical journey began at a very young age when he started performing at stage shows and cultural events in his hometown. His early musical experiences gave him a solid foundation as a singer, and he soon started making Bhojpuri pop records. His professional career as a playback singer began with his debut album, Odhaniya Wali (1997).
Pawan Singh became well-known across the country in 2008 after his hit album Lollipop Lageli was released. He became a household name and was dubbed a "Power Star" after the title track, "Lollipop Lagelu," became an iconic Bhojpuri song. With the hit song "Saniya Mirza Cut Nathuniya" from his album Don't Touch My Body that same year, his fame was further cemented.
Singh continued to explore diverse musical avenues, and in 2020, he made his Bollywood playback debut with the song “Kamariya Hila Rahi Hai” featuring American dancer-actress Lauren Gottlieb. He followed this with singles like “Babuni Tere Rang Me” (featuring Tridha Choudhury) and “Current” (with Payal Dev), showcasing his versatility beyond the Bhojpuri industry.
In 2021, Singh collaborated with legendary playback singer Sonu Nigam for a devotional Chhath song, which received immense appreciation. The same year, he experimented with Bhojpuri cover versions of popular Hindi tracks such as “Lut Gaye” (originally sung by Jubin Nautiyal) and “Baarish Ban Jaana”. He also recreated the evergreen Bollywood classic “Tumsa Koi Pyara” from the film Raja Babu (1994) in Bhojpuri, adding his unique regional touch.
Expanding his collaborations, Singh released “Jindagi”, a Bhojpuri-Haryanvi fusion track with popular Haryanvi singer Renuka Panwar, highlighting his adaptability across languages and genres.
Today, Pawan Singh is regarded as one of the most successful and influential playback singers in the Bhojpuri industry, with his songs often crossing regional boundaries and resonating with audiences across India.
Political Career
Pawan Singh formally entered politics ahead of the 2024 Indian general election, when he was announced as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate from the Asansol Lok Sabha constituency in West Bengal. His candidature drew mixed reactions—while many welcomed his popularity as a Bhojpuri superstar who could connect with masses, others criticized the decision citing his controversial public image. However, within days of the announcement, Singh withdrew his nomination, stating that he stepped back due to personal reasons.
In 2025, Singh once again turned towards electoral politics, this time from his home state of Bihar. He declared himself an independent candidate from the Karakat Lok Sabha constituency, even though the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) had already fielded its official nominee, senior leader Upendra Kushwaha. Singh’s move was seen as a direct challenge to the alliance, and in May 2025, he was expelled from the BJP for “anti-party activities” and “indiscipline”, with the party alleging that his actions damaged its image.
Despite the political controversy, Singh’s campaign in Karakat attracted massive media attention. His star power, music-infused rallies, and ability to draw large crowds made him a high-profile candidate. While his supporters projected him as a voice of the youth and Bhojpuri-speaking population, critics questioned his political experience and argued that his candidature could split votes in the region.
Although Singh did not secure victory in the election, his campaign established him as a recognizable political figure in Bihar. Political analysts described his foray into electoral politics as the beginning of a possible long-term political journey, given his popularity and ability to connect with the masses.
Television
| Year | Show | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Rise & Fall | Contestant | Hosted by Ashneer Grover, Indian adaptation of the British format |
Filmography
| Year | Film |
|---|---|
| 2007 | Rangilee Chunariya Tohre Naam |
| 2008 | Bhojpuriya Daroga |
| 2008 | Pratigya |
| 2009 | Saiya ke Sath Madaiya Mai |
| 2009 | Jogiji Dhire Dhire |
| 2009 | Tu Jaan Hau Hamaar |
| 2009 | Umariya Kaili Tohre Naam |
| 2009 | Pyar Bina Chain Kaha |
| 2009 | Odhaniya Kamal Kare |
| 2010 | Pawan Purwaiya |
| 2010 | Daraar |
| 2011 | Ladai La Akhiya Ye Launde Raja |
| 2011 | Doli Chadhake Dulhin Sasural Chali |
| 2010 | Devra Bada Satawela |
| 2011 | Rangbaj Daroga |
| 2011 | Kanoon Hamara Muththi Me |
| 2011 | Bhagjogani |
| 2011 | Chorwa Banal Damad |
| 2011 | Dewar Bhabhi |
| 2011 | Hamara Mati Mai Dum Ba |
| 2011 | Gundai Raj |
| 2012 | Sindur Dan |
| 2012 | Jab Kehu Dil Me Sama Jala |
| 2012 | Saugandh Ganga Maiya Ke |
| 2012 | Rangbaz Raja |
| 2012 | Jung |
| 2012 | Bhaiya Ke Sali Odhaniya Wali |
| 2012 | Ek Duje Ke Liye |
| 2013 | Banaras Wali |
| 2013 | Ziddi Aashiq |
| 2013 | Bajrang |
| 2013 | Truck Driver |
| 2013 | Katta Tanal Duppta Par |
| 2013 | Dakait |
| 2013 | Desh Pradesh |
| 2013 | Khoon Pashina |
| 2013 | Lawarish |
| 2013 | Veer Balwan |
| 2013 | Andhi Tufaan |
| 2013 | Ek Aur Kuruksheta |
| 2014 | Karele Kamal Dharti ke Lal |
| 2014 | Saiyaji Dilwa Mangale |
| 2014 | Yodhaa |
| 2014 | Pratigya 2 |
| 2014 | Baazigar |
| 2014 | Pyar Mohabbat Zindabad |
| 2014 | Insaaf |
| 2014 | Lebu Ka Jaan |
| 2014 | Thok Deb |
| 2015 | Nahale Pe Dahala |
| 2015 | Bin Bajaye Sapera |
| 2015 | Karz Virasat Ke |
| 2015 | Band Baja Leke Aaja Pawan Raja |
| 2015 | Lagi Chhute Na Rama |
| 2015 | Sangram |
| 2015 | Gangaputra |
| 2015 | Hukumat |
| 2015 | Suhaag |
| 2015 | Baaj Gail Danka |
| 2015 | Mukabala |
| 2015 | Khoon Ka Ilzaam |
| 2016 | Bhojpuriya Raja |
| 2016 | Gadar |
| 2016 | Tridev |
| 2016 | Ziddi |
| 2017 | Sarkar Raj |
| 2017 | Satya |
| 2017 | Tere Jaisa Yaar Kahan |
| 2017 | Tabadala |
| 2017 | Dhadkan |
| 2017 | Challenge |
| 2017 | Yodhaa Arjun Pandit |
| 2018 | Saiya Super Star |
| 2018 | Wanted |
| 2018 | Maa Tujhe Salaam |
| 2018 | Balmua Tohre Khatir |
| 2018 | Loha Pahalwan |
| 2018 | Raja |
| 2019 | Crack Fighter |
| 2019 | Maine Unko Sajan Chun Liya |
| 2019 | Jai Hind |
| 2019 | Sher Singh |
| 2021 | Ghatak |
| 2021 | Boss |
| 2021 | Hum Hai Raahi Pyar ke |
| 2022 | Mera Bharat Mahaan |
| 2022 | Pyari Chandani |
| 2022 | Kaise Ho Jala Pyar |
| 2022 | Dharma |
| 2023 | Har Har Gange |
| 2024 | Jio Meri Jaan |
Discography
Non-film songs (Bhojpuri)
| Year | Album/Single | Song | Music | Lyrics | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1997 | Odhaniya Wali | "Odhaniya Wali" | – | – | Debut Album |
| 2008 | Lollipop Lageli | "Lollipop Lagelu" | – | – | Breakthrough Hit |
| 2008 | Don’t Touch My Body | "Saniya Mirza Cut Nathuniya" | – | – | Popular Album |
| 2019 | Hamar Wala Dance | "Hamar Wala Dance" | Vinay Vinayak | Anupam Pandey | |
| 2021 | Barish Ban Jana (Bhojpuri) | "Barish Ban Jana" | Payal Dev | Kunal Verma | Bhojpuri version |
| 2021 | Lut Gaye (Bhojpuri) | "Lut Gaye" | Tanishk Bagchi | Chhotu Yadav | Bhojpuri version |
| 2021 | Pudina | "Pudina A Haseena", "Chala Bhauji Hali Hali" | Priyanshu Singh, Chhote Baba Bashi | Arun Bihari | |
| 2021 | Tumsa Koi Pyara | "Tumsa Koi Pyara" | Priyanshu Singh | Raushan Singh Vishwas | Bhojpuri remake |
| 2021 | Jindagi | "Jindagi" | Vinay Vinayak | Pinku Baba | With Renuka Panwar |
| 2022 | Jindagi 2.O | "Jindagi 2.O" | Priyanshu Singh | Renuka | |
| 2022 | Lal Ghagra | "Lal Ghagra" | Subham Raj | Vijay Chauhan | |
| 2022 | Hari Hari Odhani | "Hari Hari Odhani" | Priyanshu Singh | Ashutosh Singh | |
| 2022 | Kamariya Patre | "Kamariya Patre Patre" | Priyanshu Singh | Raushan Singh Vishwas | |
| 2022 | Saree se Tadi | "Saree Se Tadi" | Arya Sharma | Vijay Chauhan | |
| 2024 | Teri Laal Chunariya | "Teri Laal Chunariya" | Javed Mohsin | Rashmi Virag | |
| 2024 | Pasrat Pyaar | "Pasrat Pyaar" | Rajnish Mishra | Santosh Utpati | |
| 2024 | Sitlahari | "Sitlahari" | – | – | |
| 2025 | Salwarwa Lale Lal | "Salwarwa Lale Lal" | Priyanshu Singh | Raushan Singh | |
| 2025 | Lahangwa Rangab | "Lahangwa Rangab" | Priyanshu Singh | Ashutosh Tiwari | |
| 2025 | Kala Odhani | "Kala Odhani" | Priyanshu Singh | Prince Priyadarshi |
Hindi Singles
| Year | Album/Single | Song | Composer | Lyricist | Co-singer(s) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Kamariya Hila Rahi Hai | "Kamariya Hila Rahi Hai" | Payal Dev | Mohsin Shaikh & Payal Dev | Payal Dev | Bollywood debut |
| 2021 | Babuni Tere Rang Me | "Babuni Tere Rang Me" | Salim–Sulaiman | Dr. Sagar | Sharvi Yadav | |
| 2021 | Current | "Current" | Payal Dev, Mohsin Shaikh | Mohsin Shaikh & Payal Dev | Mohsin Shaikh & Payal Dev | |
| 2022 | Yaad Aati Nahi | "Yaad Aati Nahi" | Salim–Sulaiman | Shradha Pandit | – | |
| 2023 | Tumhare Siva | "Tumhare Siva" | Nikhil–Vinay, Chhote Baba (Basahi) | Faaiz Anwar & Sameer Anjaan | Khusboo Jain | Remake of Tumhare Siva (*Tum Bin*) |
Hindi film songs
| Year | Film | Song | Composer | Lyricist(s) | Co-artist(s) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Stree 2 | "Aayi Nai" | Pawan Singh & Sachin-Jigar | Amitabh Bhattacharya | Divya Kumar, Simran Choudhary | Bollywood playback |
| 2024 | Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video | "Chumma" | Sachin-Jigar | Vayu | Rupali Jagga, Rupesh Mishra, Mansa |
Notable Works
Films
- Pratigya (2008) – Breakthrough role in Bhojpuri cinema.
- Satya (2017) – Blockbuster establishing him as an action star.
- Crack Fighter (2019) – One of his highest-grossing films.
- Har Har Gange (2023) – Critically acclaimed devotional-action drama.
Music Albums & Songs
- Odhaniya Wali (1997) – Debut Bhojpuri album.
- Lollipop Lagelu (2008) – Iconic global Bhojpuri anthem.
- Hamar Wala Dance (2019) – Popular party track.
Bollywood Music
- Kamariya Hila Rahi Hai (2020) – Bollywood playback debut.
- Babuni Tere Rang Me (2021) – Hit Holi song.
- Stree 2 (2024) – Playback singer for “Aayi Nai”.
Achievements and Recognition
Music Icon of the Bhojpuri Industry: Pawan Singh is considered the "Power Star" of Bhojpuri cinema and is recognized for having revolutionized Bhojpuri pop music with hits like "Lollipop Lagelu," which became an international Bhojpuri anthem.
Award-Winning Artist: For his outstanding work as a playback singer and actor, he has won numerous honors, including two International Bhojpuri Film Awards (IBFA).
Versatile Performer: Over the course of his more than two-decade career, Singh has worked as an actor, music composer, and playback singer. He has starred in popular movies like Har Har Gange (2023), Crack Fighter (2019), Satya (2017), and Pratigya (2008).
Bollywood Appreciation He broke through regional boundaries by making his Bollywood playback debut with the popular song "Kamariya Hila Rahi Hai" (2020). He went on to contribute to movies like Stree 2 (2024), solidifying his place in the Hindi music industry.
Cultural Influence: His songs are played at international gatherings, parties, and cultural festivals throughout Europe, America, and the Middle East, and Singh is credited with making Bhojpuri music widely known.
Political Spotlight: Despite being controversial, his foray into politics helped him gain popularity among Bhojpuri-speaking audiences in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, which increased his influence outside of the entertainment sector.
Public Perception Singh has millions of admirers and is well-known for his dynamic stage presence, adaptability, and capacity to engage audiences in a variety of languages and geographical areas.