Ganaga : Hema Sardesai

A young girl from picturesque Goa nursing mammoth ambitions. Hema Sardesai is the classic example of true talent triumphing over mere hype. She encountered fame and prestige at a young age, but did not stop there. She built her musical career brick by brick. Though not as prolific as other top-of-the-line singers, Hema still has her cozy corner under the musical sun.

The film industry largely gave Hema the cold shoulder, and all she had was a clutch of sporadic offers. But she was soon to achieve fame and glory. A R Rahman chose her for Awara bhanwre from Sapnay, and Hema's gurgling-brook lyrics had the whole country in the palm of its hand. All it took was one magical song to fuel her musical career.

Since then, Hema has been a significant presence on the music scene, enriching individual numbers with her rich voice. She has drenched the soundtrack of Yaadein with her superior rendition of Eli re eli, proving that she is one singer who will always remain in the reckoning.