DAMINI SHARMA
The North News
Chandigarh, February 22
Under the cool evening sky of Chandigarh’s Sector 10, a familiar melody filled the air, weaving together nostalgia and euphoria. It was Kuldeep Sharma, Himachal Pradesh’s beloved ‘Nati King,’ enthralling the audience with his hit song Shilpa Shimle Waliye. As his voice soared, painting a lyrical portrait of a woman whose eyes shine like stars and a love so intense it robs a man of sleep, the crowd swayed, lost in the rhythm of their homeland.
For Sharma, music is more than entertainment—it’s a tribute to the land that raised him. His songs are not just melodies but a living, breathing narrative of Himachal’s culture, its people, and its folklore. And the world is listening. Shilpa Shimle Waliye alone has amassed 29 million views, a testament to the reach of Pahari music beyond the valleys of Himachal. As the final notes of Shilpa Shimle Waliye faded into the night, the crowd erupted in applause. For them, Kuldeep Sharma is not just a singer; he is the voice of their homeland. And with every song, he ensures that the soul of Himachal Pradesh echoes far beyond its mountains, reaching hearts across the world.
Sharma’s discography reads like a love letter to Himachal Pradesh. From Rohru Jana Meri Amiye to Meri Preity Zinta, his songs celebrate the landscapes, traditions, and stories that define the region. Tracks like Pata Pani Ra, Dhola Ra Dhamaka, and Rumatiye echo the joy of traditional Nati dance, while Shaluye and Bimla Tere Hotle capture the warmth of Himachali life.
Yet, Sharma’s reach extends beyond the borders of Himachal. His Punjabi and Hindi tracks have garnered widespread appreciation, and his collaboration with artists like Dev Negi and Daler Mehndi showcases his versatility. His foray into Bollywood, contributing to Van Rakshak (2019) and Yaariyan 2020, further solidifies his place in the mainstream industry.
Born on August 26, 1977, in the picturesque town of Theog, Sharma’s journey into music was almost predestined. Raised in a family where melodies were a way of life, he found his first guru in his mother, Begi Devi Sharma, a well-known local singer. By 16, he had already earned a place at Akashvani Shimla, recording three songs and becoming its youngest singer.
But it was in 1997 that Sharma truly found his stage. His performance at the Dharamshala Summer Festival catapulted him into public consciousness. In 2005, he released his first album, Himachali Geet Dhamaka, a game-changer for Himachali folk music. Since then, he has released over 100 audio and video albums, each a reflection of his deep connection to his roots.
Despite the lure of commercial music, Sharma remains dedicated to preserving Himachal’s folk traditions. His presence at major festivals like the Shimla Summer Festival and Shoolini Mela Solan is a reminder of his commitment to keeping Nati alive. His songs, steeped in themes of love, nature, and everyday life, bridge the past with the present, ensuring that Himachali culture continues to thrive in the modern age.
