Karan Aujla: From Ghurala to Global Stardom
Date Published
Karan Aujla, affectionately known as “Geetan Di Machine,” has risen from humble beginnings in Punjab to become a global icon in Punjabi music. His journey is a testament to resilience, talent, and the power of storytelling through music.
Early Life: A Story of Resilience
Born as Jaskaran Singh Aujla on January 18, 1997, in Ghurala, Ludhiana, Punjab, Karan faced profound personal losses early in life. His father, Balwinder Singh Aujla, died in a car accident, and his mother, Rajinder Kaur, succumbed to cancer when he was just nine years old. Raised by his sisters and uncle, Karan found solace in writing, a passion inherited from his father, who was known for his poetic inclinations.
At the age of 14, a chance meeting with singer Jassi Gill at a wedding became a turning point. Impressed by Karan's lyrics, Gill used them in the song "Range," marking Karan's entry into the music industry.
The Canadian Chapter: Crafting a Musical Identity
After moving to Canada, Karan balanced his studies in Burnaby with part-time work as a longshoreman in Surrey, British Columbia. Despite these challenges, his passion for music remained undeterred. Collaborating with artists like Deep Jandu and Elly Mangat, he honed his skills as a lyricist, contributing to tracks such as "Blessings of Bapu."
In 2016, Karan released his debut single "Property of Punjab," marking his transition from behind-the-scenes lyricist to front-stage performer. This was followed by a series of successful tracks, including "Yaarian Ch Fikk," "Unity," and "Alcohol 2," which solidified his presence in the Punjabi music scene.
Rise to Fame: Charting New Territories
Karan's 2018 release "Don't Worry," featuring Gurlez Akhtar, became a massive hit, entering the UK Asian music chart and amassing over 100 million views on YouTube. This success was followed by other chart-toppers like "Na Na Na," "No Need," and "Hint," each showcasing his unique blend of traditional Punjabi sounds with contemporary hip-hop influences.
In 2021, his debut studio album "Bacthafucup" achieved significant acclaim, peaking at number 20 on the Billboard Canadian Albums chart and earning him the title of India's Biggest Digital Artist, with a global ranking of 38.
Global Recognition: Breaking Barriers
Karan's influence extended beyond music charts. In 2024, he made history by winning the TikTok Fan Choice Award at the Juno Awards, becoming the first Punjabi hip-hop artist to receive this honor. His collaborations with international artists, including a 2025 track "Tell Me" with OneRepublic and Ikky, further cemented his global appeal.
His 2023 EP "Making Memories," produced with Ikky, showcased his versatility and commitment to evolving as an artist, blending heartfelt lyrics with innovative beats.
Personal Life: Tattoos and Tributes
Karan's personal life is deeply intertwined with his music. In 2019, he got tattoos of his parents on his right arm, honoring their memory. He also has tattoos of Indian freedom fighters Bhagat Singh and Udham Singh on his left arm, reflecting his deep-rooted cultural pride.
In March 2023, Karan married his longtime girlfriend, Palak, sharing glimpses of their wedding on social media.
Beyond Music: Entrepreneurial Ventures
Expanding his brand, Karan launched "Hukam Clothing" in November 2021, offering fans a chance to connect with his style and persona beyond music.
Legacy: Inspiring a Generation
Karan Aujla's journey from a small village in Punjab to international stages is a narrative of perseverance, talent, and authenticity. His ability to weave personal experiences into his music resonates with fans worldwide, making him not just a singer but a storyteller of his generation.
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