Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC paid tribute to Asha Bhosle, describing her as the “last living legend” of Indian playback singing following the singer’s death on April 12. In an interview with ANI, Shaina praised Bhosle’s versatility and vocal talent, stating the musician established a “benchmark” for future generations of singers.
“Asha Bhosle is clearly the last living legend of Hindi playback. And as an Indian singer, I think every tribute that is paid to her falls short. Her concerts, her stories, her versatility from cabaret to ghazals. If we look at her kind of recording, it’s a benchmark for generations to come, and I would only say that more strength to her family. After 12,000 songs and so many different languages, it’s a legacy which is very, very difficult to live up to,” Shaina said.
Asha Bhosle was cremated with full state honours on Monday at the Shivaji Park Crematorium in Mumbai. A large gathering of mourners attended to pay their final respects to the singer whose voice captivated generations for over eight decades. Her remains were wrapped in the tricolour and consigned to flames following a traditional gun salute by Mumbai Police.
Fans, political leaders, and members of the film and music industry gathered at the crematorium to honour Bhosle, fondly known as “Asha Tai”. Her last rites were conducted by her son Anand, and a musical tribute was performed by singers Shaan and Sudesh Bhosale. Several prominent figures from the film industry, including actors Vicky Kaushal, Aamir Khan, Vivek Oberoi, Padmini Kolhapure, and Jackie Shroff, attended alongside senior political leaders.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde were also present and paid floral tributes to the iconic singer.
Recognised as one of the most versatile singers in Indian music, Asha Bhosle’s repertoire encompassed classical compositions, ghazals, cabaret songs, and contemporary pop. She holds a Guinness World Record for the most studio recordings. Along with her sister Lata Mangeshkar, she played a crucial role in defining the golden era of Hindi film music.
Born to classical singer and theatre actor Pandit Deenanath Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle began her musical career early and went on to build an unmatched legacy. Her collaborations with composer RD Burman, whom she later married, remain some of Indian cinema’s most celebrated.
Her iconic songs include “Piya Tu Ab To Aaja”, the rebellious “Dum Maro Dum”, the soulful ghazal “Dil Cheez Kya Hai”, playful classics such as “Chura Liya Hai Tumne”, and the timeless dance anthem “Yeh Mera Dil”.
