Daler Mehndi

Daler Mehndi, born Daler Singh, is an Indian singer, songwriter and record producer widely credited with popularizing Bhangra music beyond Punjab and helping build a non-film Indian pop industry independent of Bollywood. Known for his booming voice, energetic dance beats and signature turban and flowing robes, he became one of the defining pop icons of 1990s India.

His breakout came with high-energy tracks that fused traditional Punjabi Bhangra rhythms with modern pop production, exemplified by songs such as «Tunak Tunak Tun» and «Ho Jayegi Balle Balle», which turned into cultural phenomena and remain widely recognized decades later. His music also found its way into Bollywood soundtracks, including songs like «Rang De Basanti» and «Dangal».

Beyond music, Mehndi is known for his environmental advocacy alongside his performing career. His catchy, celebratory sound and larger-than-life stage presence helped bring Bhangra-pop to a global audience, influencing a generation of South Asian pop and dance music.