"Icon of versatile vocal excellence, passionate singer-actress 'late' Asha-Bhosle---deserves the 'Bharat Ratna' !! By Sr. Journalist Chaitanya Padukone

Iconic melody-queen and international restaurateur and 'born-actress' Asha Bhosle -Jee has gracefully departed from this world. Rather, we should say 'Padma Vibhushan' Asha-jee gracefully exited into immortality leaving behind her shaandar legacy of innumerable timeless songs!

Known for her ardent passion for both singing and cooking, ( gaana-aur-khaana) the effervescent rebel-woman Asha-Tai always loved to experiment and defy conventions.. Adventurous Asha-jee was admired for her resilience and endurance to face and overcome adverse emotional crisis in personal life. Although the super-talented mahaan gaayika was 92 years of age, her incredible stamina, showmanship'. and enthusiasm ( which was evident at her live concerts even at age 90 years) was as good as as that of a 53 year woman!

Also read: Stepping into a Unique Narrative, Namish Taneja Stars in Hungama OTT's Mangal Mukhi

Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar launches music album of Asha Bhosle movie MAI'Asha Bhosle being briefed by director Mahesh Kodiyal on sets of Hindi movie 'MAI'Cooking muqabla-- Asha Bhosle with composer R D Burman--Pancham-DaAsha Bhosle being blessed by Lata-Didi Mangeshkar

With her contrasting iconic songs full of variety of vocal expressions to 'perfectly' suit and match lead heroines from Madhubala to Kajol, from Rekha to Aishwarya Rai from Nutan to Neelam, and Zeenat Aman to Urmila Matondkar of course on graceful glamour (cabaret) dancers Helen and Bindu--- the extraordinary singer Asha Bhosle had always indicated that there was a "hidden actress" within her waiting to be discovered!

Also read: Ginny Weds Sunny 2 Trailer: Avinash Tiwary Film First Look Out

This hidden acting talent finally emerged when Asha-jee was cast to play the lead title role in this 2013 Hindi movie "Mai" (mother)! Speaking from Las Vegas ( USA) , where he is currently based, "Mai" director Mahesh Kodiyal seemed shocked as he reacted, "Very sad and shocking news. Heavenly voices like that of Asha Bhosle jee don't just sing… they become eternity and live always thru their glorious legacy. Today, I honor and salute the legendary Asha-jee -a surreal voice that has resonated through decades, carrying emotions, stories, and dreams in every note. Her magical, mesmerising music isn't just heard… it is felt, deeply and lingers forever. Having Asha-jee in my film-Mai-- gracing it with her dignified presence, her realistic performance, and her creative spirit-was not just a moment in my journey, it was a milestone in my life. Asha jee didn't just play the title role… she transformed into an Alzheimer patient bringing a realistic depth and brilliance that elevated the entire story to histrionic heights. While recording a lullaby song for 'Mai', I noticed her acting potential, and realised that I could cast Asha-Taai in the emotional lead role that too of a widowed mother who was suffering from Alzheimer disease. Punctual, dedicated and involved 'actress' Asha-jee even performed several re-takes in 'Mai' for difficult scenes under showers of rain, giving us full co-operation with co-stars like Padmini Kolhapure and Ram Kapoor. It was as if she was a 'born actress', said director Mahesh Kodiyal who feels that the unique movie should be Re-released both in theatres and also on OTT Platforms as a tribute to great singer-actress Asha Bhosle, because 'Mai' is the only movie in which she has acted and given her playback voice," discloses Mahesh Kodiyal who also experienced 'Chef' Asha-jee's culinary talent when she would herself cook food at home and share it with the team on the sets.
Incidentally, the Mai music tracks were beautifully composed by a rhythm maestro.

Also read: Trans Woman Actor Ella D' Verma Leads Hungama OTT's 'Mangal Mukhi' as a Trans Cop

Asha Bhosle as lead Actress 2013 Hindi movie MAI

Nitin Shankar and singer-actress Asha-jee had specially invited her close family friend, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, to launch the "Mai" ( 2013) music tracks album at a 5-star hotel event.

We will all miss You --Anmol ASHA-Taai, but you will always Reign as the versatile Melody Queen - and we feel you deserve to be honoured posthumously with the highest civilian honour "Bharat Ratna" !

Also read: Adivi Sesh was elated as his childhood idol Aamir Khan applauds 'Dacoit' trailer

Asha Bhosle with Sr journalist Chaitanya Padukone at R D Burman's Marylands apartmentChaitanya Padukone does 'namaste-pranaam' to legend Asha-Taai Bhosle

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question 1. Who was Asha Bhosle?

Asha Bhosle was one of India's most famous and legendary playback singers, whose career spanned more than 70 years.

Question 2. What was special about her recent live show?

At the age of 84, he performed his first live concert in this city, which became a historic and emotional moment for the fans.

Question 3. In which city did this milestone event take place?

This historic concert took place in Hyderabad, where he performed live for the first time.

Question 4. Why was this performance so special?

Despite such a long career, he had never performed a live show in this city before, hence this moment became very special.

Question 5. What kind of songs did she perform at the concert?

He performed his superhit Bollywood songs, ghazals and classic melodies.