KATHMANDU, April 12: The death of legendary Indian playback singer Asha Bhosle at the age of 92 has not only marked the end of an era in Indian music but also left an irreplaceable imprint on Nepali music, where her voice played a historic role.
She breathed her last on Sunday afternoon at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai, where she was undergoing treatment. According to the hospital’s doctor Prateet Samdani, she died due to multiple organ failure after suffering from several health complications.
“An extremely sad moment. She had multiple health complications, and ultimately passed away after her organs stopped functioning,” Dr. Samdani was quoted as saying.
Her mortal remains will be kept at her residence in Lower Parel from 11 am to 3 pm on Monday for final tributes, followed by a state funeral at Shivaji Park in Mumbai at 4 pm, Maharashtra Cabinet Minister Ashish Shelar said.
He added that the entire nation and Maharashtra were mourning the end of an era and that she would be given a state honour farewell.
Beyond India, Bhosle’s contribution to Nepali music remains deeply significant. Her association with Nepali songs spans decades, particularly during the golden era of Nepali cinema.
Living legacy
Her iconic song from the film Maitighar, “Yo Ho Mero Pranbhanda Pyaro Maitighar,” has become a cultural and emotional symbol for Nepalis at home and abroad. The song, composed by Jaidev, elevated Nepali film music to wider recognition.
Another landmark contribution is her duet with legendary Nepali singer Narayan Gopal, “Mohani Laagla Hai,” which remains one of the most celebrated songs in Nepali music history.
She also lent her voice to several other Nepali songs, including “Aau Na Aau Timrai Kasam,” “Jhajhalko Liyera Aayechha Sawan,” “Kina Badhdai Chha Dhukdhuki,” “Gairi Khet Ko Sirai” and “Yestai Rahechha Yahako Chalan,” among others.
Bhosle collaborated with prominent Nepali composers including Amber Gurung, Nati Kaji, and Shambhujeet Banskota. Her clear pronunciation and expressive delivery made her Nepali songs sound naturally fluent, strengthening her bond with Nepali audiences.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed grief over her demise, calling her one of India’s most versatile voices.
Born on September 8, 1933, in Sangli, Maharashtra, Asha Bhosle was the daughter of classical singer and theatre artist Dinanath Mangeshkar and the younger sister of legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar.
After her father’s death when she was nine, the family faced financial hardship, prompting her to begin singing at a young age alongside her sister to support the household.
Her career began in 1943 with the Marathi film Majha Bal. She later moved to Mumbai, where she initially struggled in Hindi cinema and was often assigned songs rejected by senior singers. However, she eventually carved out her own identity through versatility and perseverance.
Over her career, she recorded more than 12,000 songs in over 14 languages, earning a place in the Guinness World Records. Her repertoire included classical, pop, cabaret, and ghazals, with evergreen hits such as “Dum Maro Dum,” “Piya Tu Ab To Aaja,” and “Chura Liya Hai Tumne Jo Dil Ko.”
Her personal life was marked by struggle. She married at 16 against her family’s wishes and later separated after facing domestic difficulties, raising her children independently.
She later married renowned music composer R. D. Burman in 1980. The duo formed one of the most influential musical partnerships in Indian cinema until his death in 1994.
Asha Bhosle’s journey from being dismissed early in her career to becoming one of the world’s most celebrated voices stands as a testament to resilience and reinvention. With her passing, a golden chapter in music history has closed, but her voice will continue to resonate across generations.
