Sardool Sikander

Biography

Sardool Sikander (15 January 1961 – 24 February 2021) was a celebrated Indian singer renowned for his contributions to Punjabi folk and pop music. With a powerful voice and deep grounding in classical traditions, he became one of the most recognizable figures in Punjabi music from the 1980s onward.

Early Life and Musical Roots

Sardool Sikander was born in Kheri Naudh Singh in the Fatehgarh Sahib district of Punjab, India. He grew up in a musically inclined family; his father, Sagar Mastana, was a noted tabla player who invented a unique style of tabla played with a thin bamboo stick.

Sikander received formal musical training under Professor B. S. Narang and belonged to the prestigious Patiala Gharana, a renowned school of Hindustani classical music known for its rich vocal traditions. This classical foundation strongly influenced his singing style throughout his career.

Musical Career

Sardool Sikander began gaining recognition in the early 1980s through radio and television appearances. His debut album, Roadways Di Laari, introduced him to a wide audience and marked the beginning of a prolific career.

Over the years, he released 27 albums and became a prominent voice in Punjabi folk-pop. His music blended traditional Punjabi rhythms with contemporary sounds, making it accessible to both rural and urban listeners.

One of his most successful releases was the 1991 album Husna De Malko, which reportedly sold over 5 million copies worldwide. His songs were widely featured in compilation and derivative albums internationally, further extending his global reach among Punjabi diaspora communities.

Film Work

In addition to his music career, Sardool Sikander also appeared in Punjabi-language films, including Jagga Daku. His on-screen presence, combined with his musical talent, strengthened his standing in the Punjabi entertainment industry.

Personal Life

Sardool Sikander was married to Amar Noorie, a well-known Punjabi singer and actress. The couple was regarded as one of the prominent musical pairs in Punjabi entertainment. They had two sons and shared both personal and professional ties within the music industry.

Illness and Death

In his later years, Sikander faced several health complications, including kidney damage, uncontrolled diabetes, and multi-organ issues. He contracted COVID-19 during the COVID-19 pandemic in India and was admitted to Fortis Hospital in Mohali, near Chandigarh.

Sardool Sikander passed away on 24 February 2021 at the age of 60, with his wife and sons by his side. His death was widely mourned across Punjab and among music lovers worldwide.