Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Brings Back the Magic of the ’90s for Kumar Sanu’s Birthday Special

Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2026 is living up to its promise of being ‘Hindustan Ka Sangeetsthan’. Four weeks into its return, the OG music reality show has struck a strong chord with audiences, with its intense competition, larger-than-life musical world and the sheer range of singing talent from across India becoming a talking point. Adding to the musical celebrations, the upcoming episode will pay a special tribute to the legendary Kumar Sanu on his 69th birthday, taking audiences back to the golden era of 90s music through his timeless melodies.

The episode opens with “Ae Kaash Ke Hum’’, setting the mood for a nostalgic musical evening. Contestant Durgesh Yadav performs Mera Dil Bhi Kitna Pagal Hai, before Kumar Sanu joins him on stage, making the moment even more special. Contestant Mir Zulfikar follows with Der Na Ho Jaaye, while Kadamb Chauhan ’s rendition of Tu Mile Dil Khile delights the legendary singer, who rewards him with cash as a token of appreciation. Gitashree Chowdhury ’s performance of Gawah Hai Chand Taare, originally sung by Kumar Sanu and Alka Yagnik, brings back memories of their iconic musical partnership.
Having sung over 500 duets together, Kumar Sanu and Alka Yagnik have created a musical legacy that continues to resonate with generations of listeners. Geetashree’s rendition takes him back to their cherished musical journey, prompting him to fondly recall Alka Yagnik and the special place she holds in his musical life. As he gets emotional remembering their association, Kumar Sanu appreciates Geetashree’s performance and sings a few lines of the song himself as a heartfelt tribute to his longtime musical partner. With Alka Yagnik currently recovering from a rare sensorineural hearing loss condition, the moment takes on an even more personal and emotional significance.

Kumar Sanu shares, “ As many of you know, Alka ji is not keeping well, and that makes me very emotional. Some of the most romantic songs of my career have been with Alka ji, and her brilliance as a singer needs no introduction. I sincerely hope she recovers soon and returns to join us in front of all of you once again. Listening to this song brought back so many memories of our time together, especially the way we recorded it and the beautiful musical moments we shared. It truly saddens me to know that she is unwell. Through this performance, I would like to pay tribute to her by singing a few lines of this song, with the hope that she gets well soon and we get to hear her magical voice again.”

The latest season has also expanded the scale of the iconic music reality format, with a 360-degree stage, over 100 musicians and an expansive chorus ensemble, creating a grander musical experience for viewers. Adding to this vibrant musical world is host Shreyas Talpade, whose high-energy presence and signature spontaneity bring together the many elements of the show while keeping the entertainment quotient high.

Adding to the heartfelt moment, blending birthday celebrations with the nostalgia of an unforgettable musical era, the episode promises an evening filled with melodies, cherished memories and heartfelt emotions.

Watch Sa Re Ga Ma Pa only on Zee TV every Saturday and Sunday at 9:30 PM!