From Local Talent to National Acclaim: Piyashi Sengupta’s Early Award Wins

Every once in a while, a voice comes along that not only captivates but conquers. In the early 2000s, a young Piyashi Sengupta stood out in a sea of voices—not just for her technique, but for the emotion, originality, and soul she poured into every note. Before she became a recognized name in playback singing, she made headlines by winning two major music competitions that launched her journey on a national scale: the Tri Ratna Award and the 29th Hero Honda Surtarang National Singing Talent Hunt.

🏆 Tri-State Glory – Winner of the Tri Ratna Award

The Tri Ratna Award wasn’t just any competition. It was a fierce and prestigious tri-state contest, featuring the finest young singers from Assam, Tripura, and West Bengal. This platform served as a cultural battleground where only the most extraordinary voices could rise above.

Piyashi competed against some of the best talent from three culturally rich states—yet her soulful expression and mastery over classical nuances set her apart. Her ability to blend technical brilliance with raw emotion made her an instant favorite among the judges and the audience. Winning this award wasn’t just a personal victory—it was her first big recognition as one of the region’s most promising female vocalists.

🌟 A National Stage – Hero Honda Surtarang Finalist and Winner

While the Tri Ratna win put her on the regional map, it was the Hero Honda Surtarang National Singing Talent Hunt (29th edition) that truly introduced Piyashi to a nationwide audience.

Held during 2003–2004, Surtarang was considered one of the most prestigious talent competitions in India at the time. The show attracted thousands of hopefuls from across the country, and to win it meant standing tall among the future icons of Indian music.

Judged by India’s most respected classical music maestros, the competition tested not only vocal skill but depth, range, and the ability to emotionally connect through sound. Piyashi passed with flying colors. Her performance left an indelible impression on the judges, and she walked away as the Best Female Vocalist of the event.

The grand finale, held at the iconic Talkatora Stadium in Delhi, witnessed thunderous applause as she claimed the award. For Piyashi, it was a dream moment—an affirmation that her voice wasn’t just loved, but celebrated on a grand stage.

🎶 Rooted in Classical Brilliance

Piyashi’s triumph in both competitions wasn’t by chance. Her solid foundation in Hindustani Classical music was evident in every performance. Years of disciplined training came alive in her command over sur, taal, and lay—elements that many seasoned musicians struggle to master.

But more than technique, it was the emotional storytelling in her voice that drew audiences in. Whether she sang a raga-based thumri or a semi-classical Bollywood number, she made listeners feel every word, every note.

💬 Praised by Masters, Admired by Audiences

While specific names of judges from that time may be lost to memory, what remains etched is the universal admiration she received from those present. Classical stalwarts and music educators alike recognized her rare gift—the ability to sound mature beyond her years and yet fresh enough to charm.

It’s no surprise that these early wins paved the way for more opportunities, invitations, and collaborations down the line.

🌟 A Star in the Making

These accolades weren’t just trophies on a shelf. They became stepping stones to a larger career in Indian music—opening doors to All India Radio, Doordarshan performances, national TV serials, and collaborations with industry legends. But it all began with that little girl from Assam who believed in her voice—and proved to the world that it was worth listening to.

Today, as Piyashi Sengupta continues to scale new heights in the realms of playback, devotional, and independent music, these two titles—Tri Ratna Award winner and Surtarang champion—remain powerful reminders of her extraordinary beginnings.