Kalpana Patowary is widely recognised for her contribution to Bhojpuri music and Indian folk traditions. Her powerful voice, regional musical style and popular Chhath songs have earned her a strong following. However, many music lovers may not know that she has also lent her voice to some of Bollywood's popular dance numbers.
During a recent appearance on Shubhankar Mishra's podcast, the singer revisited her Bollywood journey and spoke about songs that audiences continue to enjoy. Her revelations surprised several listeners, particularly those who were unaware of her contribution to two popular tracks featuring some of Hindi cinema's biggest stars.
Among the songs discussed were 'Uncha Lamba Kad' from Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif's Welcome and 'Gandi Baat' from Shahid Kapoor and Sonakshi Sinha's R... Rajkumar.
Kalpana Patowary Sang 'Uncha Lamba Kad' with Anand Raj Anand
One of the most popular songs associated with Kalpana Patowary is 'Uncha Lamba Kad' from the 2007 comedy film Welcome. Featuring Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif, the song became a favourite at parties, celebrations and dance events.
Kalpana sang the track alongside composer and singer Anand Raj Anand, who also composed the music. The song's energetic rhythm, catchy lyrics and lively vocals helped it become a memorable part of the film's soundtrack.
Even years after its release, 'Uncha Lamba Kad' continues to feature on Bollywood dance playlists. Many listeners recognise the song immediately but may not know that Kalpana Patowary was one of the voices behind it.
Her contribution to the track reflects her ability to move between regional folk music and mainstream Hindi film compositions without losing the distinctive character of her voice.
'Gandi Baat' from R... Rajkumar Featured Her Voice
Another popular Bollywood song featuring Kalpana's vocals is 'Gandi Baat' from the 2013 film R... Rajkumar, starring Shahid Kapoor and Sonakshi Sinha.
The high-energy dance number was sung by Mika Singh and Kalpana Patowary. Pritam composed the music, while Anupam Amod wrote the lyrics.
The song became one of the film's most recognisable musical highlights. Kalpana's earthy vocal style and Bhojpuri-inspired flavour added a distinct touch to the track, complementing Mika Singh's energetic singing.
The song's popularity helped introduce her voice to listeners who may not have been familiar with her extensive work in Bhojpuri and regional music.
Kalpana Patowary's Strong Connection with Bhojpuri Music
Although Kalpana has contributed to Bollywood soundtracks, her biggest musical identity remains closely connected with Bhojpuri and folk music.
Originally from Assam, she gradually established herself in the Bhojpuri music industry through her distinctive singing style and dedication to regional musical traditions.
She has worked with several prominent Bhojpuri performers, including Manoj Tiwari, Pawan Singh, Dinesh Lal Yadav, popularly known as Nirahua, and Khesari Lal Yadav.
Her popular Bhojpuri songs include 'Othlali Se Roti Bor Ke', 'Pandey Ji Ka Beta', 'Jugaad Kaile Bani' and 'Maroon Color Sadiya'. These songs have helped her maintain a strong connection with audiences across the Bhojpuri-speaking regions.
Her Chhath songs have also become an important part of her musical identity. Tracks such as 'Kelawa Ke Paat Par', 'Uga Ho Suruj Dev' and 'Kaanch Hi Baans Ke Bahangiya' are widely associated with the festival and its musical traditions.
From Assamese Roots to a Recognised Bhojpuri Voice
Kalpana's journey is particularly interesting because she began her musical life in Assam before becoming a recognised name in Bhojpuri music.
Growing up in a culturally rich musical environment, she developed an interest in traditional singing. Her journey eventually took her into different regional music industries, where she explored multiple languages and musical styles.
Her ability to adapt to different dialects and folk traditions has been an important part of her career. Rather than limiting herself to one musical category, she has worked across folk, devotional, Bhojpuri and Bollywood music.
Her contribution also highlights the growing influence of regional singers in mainstream Indian entertainment. Several artists with strong roots in regional music have brought their distinctive styles into Hindi film soundtracks.
Kalpana Patowary's Bollywood Journey Beyond Two Popular Songs
Apart from 'Uncha Lamba Kad' and 'Gandi Baat', Kalpana has also lent her voice to other film songs, including 'Aila Re Aila' from Khatta Meetha and 'Ore Kaharo' from Begum Jaan.
These projects demonstrate the range of her playback singing career and her association with different composers and film industries.
Her recent podcast appearance has once again brought attention to this lesser-known part of her professional journey. For listeners who primarily associate her with Bhojpuri songs and Chhath music, the revelation offers a fresh perspective on her contribution to Bollywood.
A Singer Who Continues to Celebrate Folk Music
Despite her work in mainstream cinema, Kalpana Patowary continues to remain deeply connected with India's folk traditions.
Her musical journey demonstrates that regional music and Bollywood playback singing do not have to exist in separate spaces. A singer can move between different musical worlds while retaining a distinctive artistic identity.
Her story is also a reminder that some familiar Bollywood songs have contributions from artists whose wider careers may not always be recognised by mainstream audiences.
With her recent podcast appearance bringing renewed attention to 'Uncha Lamba Kad' and 'Gandi Baat', Kalpana has once again become a topic of discussion among music lovers.
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