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Mumbai prepares for state funeral of legendary singer
Crowds have gathered outside Asha Bhosle's residence in Mumbai as the nation prepares to bid farewell to the Bollywood legend, who passed away at 92 following a heart attack. Her last rites will be held Monday evening at Shivaji Park with full state honors.
An unparalleled career spanning eight decades
The two-time Grammy nominee recorded thousands of songs over nearly 80 years, cementing her status as one of Indian cinema's most versatile voices. From romantic ballads to high-energy tracks, Bhosle collaborated with generations of composers, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
Born in 1933 into a musical family, she began performing as a child alongside her elder sister, Lata Mangeshkar. While often compared to Mangeshkar-dubbed the "nightingale of Bollywood"-Bhosle carved her own identity, particularly through bold, jazzy, and cabaret-style numbers.
Tributes pour in from leaders and fans worldwide
Prime Minister Narendra Modi called her "one of the most iconic and versatile voices India has ever known," while President Draupadi Murmu described her death as "an irreparable loss to music lovers."
"Asha Tai was family. Through her eternal songs, she will remain timeless."
Sachin Tendulkar, cricketer
Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan wrote that her "voice has been one of the pillars of Indian cinema and will continue to resonate world over for centuries to come." Composer AR Rahman added, "She lives forever through her voice and aura-what an artist."
A life of resilience and reinvention
Bhosle's early years were marked by hardship. She married at 16, but the relationship later ended. Her career gained momentum in the 1950s through collaborations with composer OP Nayyar, followed by a transformative partnership with RD Burman, whom she married. Their 14-year union, until Burman's death in 1994, pushed the boundaries of her artistry.
Even in her later years, she embraced innovation, teaming up with the British virtual band Gorillaz on their 2026 album The Mountain. The track The Shadowy Light blended her voice with international musicians, exploring themes of grief and mortality.
Beyond music: A passion for food and cricket
Away from the studio, Bhosle was an avid cook. Lyricist Javed Akhtar recalled her kebabs fondly, saying she took pride in his praise. She also launched the restaurant chain Asha's, with locations in Dubai and the UK.
A cricket enthusiast, she was honored during an Indian Premier League match on Sunday, where Mumbai Indians players wore black armbands and observed a minute of silence.
Legacy of a cultural giant
Bhosle's influence extended beyond music. The 1997 Cornershop hit Brimful of Asha celebrated her impact, with band member Tjinder Singh noting her ability to "be loved in so many languages and dialects."
As India gathers to say goodbye, her voice-spanning generations and genres-remains a testament to her enduring artistry.
