Legendary singer Asha Bhosle passes away at 92

Legendary playback singer Asha Bhosle passed away in Mumbai on Sunday at the age of 92, according to a statement attributed to her family.

The news was confirmed by Asha Bhosle’s son Anand Bhosle. Speaking to reporters outside the hospital, he said, “She passed away today. Those who wish to pay their last respects can visit her residence tomorrow at 11 am. The last rites will be performed tomorrow at 4 pm at Shivaji Park.” reports The Indian Express.

According to the report, Asha Bhosle breathed her last at Breach Candy Hospital, where she had been admitted on April 11 due to extreme exhaustion and a chest infection.

Her passing is described as marking the end of an extraordinary musical journey spanning over eight decades. She began singing at the age of 10, debuting with “Chala Chala Nav Bala” for the 1943 Marathi film Majha Bal. Five years later, she entered Hindi cinema with “Saawan Aaya” in Chunariya (1948). Her breakthrough came with “Maang Ke Saath Tumhara” and “Uden Jab Jab Zulfein Teri” in Naya Daur (1957), where she voiced songs for the female lead Vyjayanthimala. She went on to record more songs than any other female singer of her era.

Over the years, she developed a distinct musical identity, embracing cabaret and Western-influenced tracks such as “Aaja Aaja” and “O Haseena Zulfon Wali” from Teesri Manzil (1966), composed by RD Burman. She became the signature voice for dancer Helen, with iconic songs like “Piya Tu Ab Toh Aaja” (Caravan, 1971) and “Yeh Mera Dil” (Don, 1978).

Her versatility extended to ghazals, with acclaimed performances in Umrao Jaan (1981), including “Dil Cheez Kya Hai” and “In Aankhon Ki Masti Ke,” which earned her a National Award. She later won another National Award for “Mera Kuchh Saamaan” from Ijaazat (1987).

In later decades, she continued singing for younger actors, with popular tracks including “Tanha Tanha” and “Rangeela Re” from Rangeela (1995), “Radha Kaise Na Jale” from Lagaan (2001), “Kambakht Ishq” (2001), and “Lucky Lips” (2005).

At 79, she made her acting debut in Mai (2013), portraying a mother suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.

Beyond films, she also worked on independent music and collaborations, including Dil Padosi Hai, Jaanam Samjha Karo, and projects with Adnan Sami. Her album Legacy with Ustad Ali Akbar Khan earned her a Grammy Award, while You’ve Stolen My Heart brought another nomination. She also worked on Aap Ki Asha (2002) and Asha and Friends (2006).

She recorded songs in multiple Indian languages and was recognized by Guinness World Records for the most studio recordings. She was also honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award and the Padma Vibhushan.