Ranu Mandal is one of the most talked-about Indian singers whose life story feels nothing less than a Bollywood movie. From singing at a railway station to performing in a Bollywood film, her journey is filled with struggle, hope, sudden fame, and harsh reality.
She became a nationwide sensation after a video of her singing a Lata Mangeshkar song at Ranaghat railway station went viral on social media. Within days, she transformed from an unknown woman living in poverty into a household name across India.
Born on November 5, 1960, in West Bengal, Ranu Mandal’s life was never easy. She faced poverty, homelessness, family separation, and social neglect for many years.
Yet, music remained her only companion. Even today, her story continues to inspire millions of people who believe that talent can come from anywhere, even the most unexpected places.
In this article, we will explore Ranu Mandal’s biography, age, songs, net worth, family, controversies, personal struggles, and current life in complete detail.
Ranu Mandal is an Indian playback singer who rose to fame overnight after a viral video captured her singing “Ek Pyaar Ka Nagma Hai” at the Ranaghat railway station in West Bengal. Her voice, remarkably similar to legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar, touched millions of hearts.
Before fame, Ranu lived a difficult life and survived by singing at railway stations. Her destiny changed when a passerby recorded her performance and shared it on social media.
The video quickly spread across the internet and reached Bollywood music director Himesh Reshammiya, who gave her an opportunity to sing in his film Happy Hardy and Heer.
Despite limited success in Bollywood and several controversies, Ranu Mandal remains one of India’s most unforgettable viral sensations.
Ranu Mandal Early Life and Background
Ranu Mandal was born in Krishnanagar, West Bengal, into a poor family. Her childhood was filled with hardships, especially after her mother passed away. After her mother’s death, Ranu moved to Ranaghat, where she lived with relatives for some time.
Music entered her life at a very young age. She was deeply inspired by Lata Mangeshkar and learned many of her songs by listening to the radio. Despite having no formal music training, Ranu developed an exceptional singing voice purely through practice and passion.
Due to financial struggles, she could not pursue education or professional music training. Eventually, she began singing at railway stations and public places to earn money for survival.
Struggles Before Fame
For many years, Ranu Mandal lived in extreme poverty. She was often seen singing at Ranaghat railway station, relying on donations from passengers. People usually ignored her, unaware of the hidden gem she was.
She had no stable home, no financial support, and no industry connections. Despite all odds, she never stopped singing. Music was not just her passion—it was her way of survival.
Her life before fame was full of loneliness, rejection, and hardship, making her later success even more extraordinary.
Ranu Mandal Age
Ranu Mandal was born on November 5, 1960, which makes her 65 years old as of 2025.
What makes her story unique is that she gained national fame at the age of 59—an age when most people slow down. Her success proved that age is never a barrier when talent and destiny align.
Rise to Fame: The Viral Video
Ranu Mandal’s life changed dramatically in 2019 when a video of her singing at Ranaghat railway station went viral. The video showcased her powerful voice and emotional depth, drawing comparisons with Lata Mangeshkar.
Social media users praised her talent, and mainstream media quickly picked up her story. Within days, she became famous across India.
Her viral fame caught the attention of Himesh Reshammiya, who invited her to Mumbai and offered her a chance to sing in Bollywood.
Ranu Mandal Songs and Music Career
Ranu Mandal made her Bollywood playback singing debut with the song “Teri Meri Kahani” in the movie Happy Hardy and Heer. The song received mixed reactions, but it marked a historic moment in her life.
Popular Songs by Ranu Mandal
Teri Meri Kahani – Happy Hardy and Heer
Aashiqui Mein Teri 2.0
Hiriye
Ek Pyaar Ka Nagma Hai (Cover)
Lata Mangeshkar Tribute Songs
Although she did not receive many big projects after her debut, her songs remain memorable due to her unique voice and emotional delivery.
Challenges in Sustaining Fame
While Ranu Mandal’s rise was rapid, sustaining fame proved difficult. The music industry is competitive, and her lack of professional training and guidance limited her opportunities.
Additionally, controversies and behavioral issues affected her public image. Over time, offers reduced, and she slowly faded from mainstream media attention.
Ranu Mandal Net Worth
As of 2024–2025, Ranu Mandal’s estimated net worth is around ₹12 lakh.
Sources of Income
Bollywood songs
Live performances
Event appearances
YouTube and social media monetization
Despite her viral success, her earnings remained limited due to fewer long-term projects.
Ranu Mandal Family
Ranu Mandal has been married twice and has two children.
Family Details
Husband: Bablu Mondal (deceased)
Daughter: Elizabeth Sathi Roy
Son: Name not publicly disclosed
Her daughter Elizabeth came into the spotlight when she tried to reconnect with her mother during Ranu’s fame. Despite family struggles, her children have shown support for her.
Ranu Mandal House and Current Life
After gaining fame, Ranu briefly moved to Mumbai. However, due to financial difficulties and fewer work opportunities, she returned to Ranaghat, West Bengal.
She currently lives a quiet life away from the limelight. Reports suggest that she still struggles financially but continues to sing and engage with fans online.
Ranu Mandal Controversies
Ranu Mandal faced several controversies that impacted her career:
Alleged disrespectful remarks about Lata Mangeshkar
Rude behavior with fans during public appearances
Conflicts with event organizers
These controversies damaged her public image and reduced industry support.
Ranu Mandal’s Personal Struggles
Sudden fame brought emotional pressure and mental stress. Ranu struggled to adapt to celebrity life, media attention, and public expectations.
Despite criticism, she continues to stand strong, proving her resilience.
Why Is Ranu Mandal an Inspiration?
Ranu Mandal’s story is a reminder that talent has no address. Her journey from a railway station singer to a Bollywood playback singer proves that dreams can come true, even against impossible odds.
She represents millions of struggling artists who hope for recognition one day.
Where Is Ranu Mandal Today?
Ranu Mandal currently lives in Ranaghat, West Bengal. She occasionally appears in interviews and remains active on social media.
Though she is no longer in the mainstream spotlight, her story continues to inspire people across the country.
Interesting Facts About Ranu Mandal
She has no formal music training
She gained fame at the age of 59
Her voice resembles Lata Mangeshkar
She was discovered through social media
She remains one of India’s biggest viral sensations
FAQs
What is Ranu Mandal’s age?
Ranu Mandal was born on November 5, 1960, and she is 65 years old as of 2025.
What made Ranu Mandal famous?
She became famous after a video of her singing at Ranaghat railway station went viral on social media.
What is Ranu Mandal’s net worth?
Ranu Mandal’s estimated net worth is around ₹12 lakh as of 2024–2025.
Is Ranu Mandal married?
Ranu Mandal was married to Bablu Mondal, who has passed away. She has two children.
Where is Ranu Mandal now?
She currently lives in Ranaghat, West Bengal, and lives a quiet life away from the spotlight.
Conclusion
Ranu Mandal’s life story is a powerful example of how talent can emerge from the most unexpected places. From singing at railway stations to recording songs in Bollywood, her journey reflects courage, resilience, and hope. Despite facing poverty, rejection, and controversies, she never let go of her love for music.
Although her career did not reach long-term stardom, Ranu Mandal remains an unforgettable figure in Indian pop culture. Her story continues to inspire millions, proving that sometimes a single moment can change an entire life. Whether remembered for her voice or her journey, Ranu Mandal’s legacy will always symbolize hope for dreamers everywhere.
