Legendary singer Asha Bhosle passed away
Born in 1933 into the Mangeshkar family, she began her playback singing career at a young age and rose to prominence in the 1950s.
KATHMANDU: Reports circulating across Indian media on Sunday have claimed that legendary playback singer Asha Bhosle has passed away at the age of 92 in Mumbai, following hospitalization for respiratory and cardiac complications. However, official confirmation from hospital authorities and independently verified statements remain inconsistent, with some details still unconfirmed.
According to initial reports, the iconic singer had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai after suffering health complications, including respiratory and cardiac issues. She was later reportedly moved to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) as her condition deteriorated over the past few days.
Some media outlets further reported that her family had informed reporters that she passed away on Sunday afternoon, although this claim has not been independently verified by hospital authorities at the time of reporting.
In contrast, other emerging statements attributed to hospital officials and representatives present at Breach Candy Hospital have suggested confirmation of her demise. A doctor identified in reports as Dr. Prateet Samdani is said to have stated that Asha Bhosle “breathed her last” at the hospital, adding that she died due to multi-organ failure.
Maharashtra Cultural Minister Ashish Shelar was also reported to have spoken to media outside the hospital premises, where developments surrounding her condition were unfolding.
Family members have also been quoted in multiple reports. Her son, Anand Bhosle, reportedly said: “My mother Asha Bhosle has passed away today,” and added that arrangements were being made for members of the public to pay their last respects at her residence the following day at 11 am, with last rites scheduled for 4:00 pm.
Her granddaughter, Zanai Bhosle, had earlier confirmed hospitalization and requested privacy. In a social media post, she wrote that Asha Bhosle had been admitted due to extreme exhaustion and a chest infection, stating that treatment was ongoing and asking the public to respect the family’s privacy while updates would be shared when appropriate.
Earlier hospital updates had indicated that she was receiving care in the Emergency Medical Services unit after reportedly suffering a cardiac arrest. She was admitted on Saturday evening following severe exhaustion and a chest infection.
Following news of her hospitalization, fans across India expressed widespread concern and offered prayers for her recovery, as uncertainty over her condition continued to grow.
Born on Sept 8, 1933, in Sangli, Maharashtra, Asha Bhosle began her musical journey in 1943 and went on to become one of the most prolific and versatile playback singers in Indian cinema history. Over a career spanning more than seven decades, she recorded thousands of songs in multiple Indian languages, leaving a lasting imprint on film music, private albums, and international performances.
She emerged from the renowned Mangeshkar family, which played a defining role in shaping Indian film music. Throughout the 1950s and beyond, she rose to prominence in Bollywood, initially often associated with lighter or dance-based numbers before establishing herself as one of the industry’s most versatile voices.
She collaborated with some of Indian cinema’s most influential music directors, including R.D. Burman, O.P. Nayyar, and Khayyam, and became known for her remarkable adaptability across genres such as cabaret, classical, pop, devotional music, and ghazals.
Her celebrated performances in films such as Umrao Jaan and Ijaazat earned her critical acclaim. Songs including “Dil Cheez Kya Hai” and “Mera Kuch Saamaan” are widely regarded as milestones in Indian film music.
Over the decades, she received numerous honors, including the Padma Vibhushan in 2008 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest recognition in cinema. In 2011, she was also listed by Guinness World Records as the most-recorded artist in music history.
Beyond India, Asha Bhosle also performed internationally and collaborated with global artists, further extending the reach of Indian music worldwide. Her ability to remain relevant across generations made her one of the most enduring figures in global music.
Even in later years, she remained active in the music world and frequently expressed appreciation for both classical traditions and evolving modern styles.
She stood alongside her sister Lata Mangeshkar as one of the defining voices of the 20th century and beyond, leaving behind an unmatched legacy that continues to influence generations of artists and listeners.
