New Delhi, Feb 6 (.) Friday marked the fourth death anniversary of legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar, fondly known as the ‘Nightingale of India’.
Lata Mangeshkar passed away on February 6, 2022, at the age of 92, leaving behind a musical legacy that continues to inspire generations.
Born on September 28, 1929, in Indore during British India, Lata Mangeshkar showed an early affinity for music under the guidance of her father, Deenanath Mangeshkar, a noted theatre artist and musician. Following his death, she took on the responsibility of supporting her family and soon emerged as one of Indian cinema’s most influential voices.
For more than seven decades, Lata Mangeshkar’s voice became the emotional backbone of Indian cinema and popular music. From the 1940s onward, she shaped the sound of Hindi films while also leaving a deep impact on Marathi music and songs in numerous other Indian languages.
She recorded music in over 36 Indian languages and collaborated with some of the country’s greatest composers, including Naushad, S.D. Burman, R.D. Burman, Madan Mohan, Laxmikant–Pyarelal, and A.R. Rahman.
Iconic songs such as Aayega Aanewala, Lag Jaa Gale, Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya, and Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon remain emotional touchstones in India’s musical history.
Her contributions were recognised with numerous honours, including the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1989, the Padma Bhushan in 1969, the Padma Vibhushan in 1999, and the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in 2001. These accolades acknowledged not only her artistic excellence but also her role in shaping India’s cultural identity.
Lata Mangeshkar’s funeral in Mumbai’s Shivaji Park in 2022 was marked by national mourning, with flags flown at half-mast and tributes pouring in from political leaders, artists, and fans.
In her memory, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated Lata Mangeshkar Chowk in Ayodhya on September 28, 2022, her birth anniversary. The site features a striking 40-foot-tall veena sculpture, weighing approximately 14 tonnes, symbolising her immense contribution to Indian music, particularly devotional compositions.
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