India, Nov. 7 -- "To me, success came in compartments. It was never overnight," says musician Sonu Nigam, who has been a part of Indian music for over three decades. From romantic numbers to devotional tracks, his range and versatility have made him one of the most recognizable singers in the country.

Reflecting on his journey, Sonu recalls, "My first break came from Gulshan Kumarji when I was 19. Then Sa Re Ga Ma in 1995 changed everything for me. It brought me into people's homes and helped them see me beyond just a playback singer. It gave me credibility."

Over the years, Sonu has delivered some of Hindi cinema's memorable songs: Yeh Dil Deewana (Pardes, 1997), Suraj Hua Maddham (Kabhie Khushi Kabhie Gham, 2001), Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003)...