Kalpana Raghavendar has recently been in the news following an alleged suicide attempt in Hyderabad. Reports suggest that the singer was found in distress and was promptly taken to the hospital for urgent medical care. As fans across the nation express their concern and send their best wishes for her recovery, let’s take a closer look at her life and career.
Who is Kalpana Raghavendar?
Kalpana Raghavendar hails from a family deeply rooted in music. Her father, T. S. Raghavendra, was a playback singer, composer, and actor, while her mother, Sulochana, is also a singer. Additionally, her sister, Shekinah Shawn, is an opera singer.
She received formal training in Carnatic music under the guidance of Madurai T. Srinivasan and also holds a Master’s degree in Computer Applications.
Kalpana Raghavendar’s Musical Journey
Kalpana discovered her passion for singing at an early age, performing her first song at just five years old. At six, she appeared in the film Punnagai Mannan, and her first recorded song was a family track composed by Saluri Vasurao.
She made her playback singing debut in 1999 with Mangalagouriki from the movie Manoharam, composed by Mani Sharma. Throughout her career, she has collaborated with legendary composers like Ilaiyaraaja and A. R. Rahman and has sung alongside renowned artists such as S. P. Balasubrahmanyam and K. S. Chithra.
Beyond playback singing, Kalpana is widely recognized for her electrifying live performances, having participated in nearly 3,000 stage shows worldwide. In 2013, she led a tribute concert in honor of her mentor, Madurai T. Srinivasan.
In addition to her singing career, she had a minor role in the 1986 Kamal Haasan-starrer Punnagai Mannan.
Some of her most popular songs include Poda Poda Punnaku, Premante Suluvu Kadhura, Joole Joole, Dikkulu Choodaku, Pogiren, Jiguru Jiguru, Yappa Chappa, Oyaa Oyaa, Kodi Parakura Kaalam, and Telangana Tejam.
What Happened to Kalpana Raghavendar?
The singer was reportedly found unconscious at her residence in Hyderabad after allegedly consuming sleeping pills. According to media sources, her neighbors and police had to break into her home to rescue her. She was immediately taken to a hospital, where she is currently stable but remains under ventilator support.
Concerns arose when her house remained locked for two consecutive days. Further details about the incident have not been disclosed.
Important Message
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, anxiety, depression, or a severe mental health condition, please seek professional help. Reach out to a doctor, mental health expert, or a nearby NGO for immediate assistance. Several helplines are available to provide support and guidance.
