Mumbai: The Mumbai Indians honoured the memory of legendary playback singer Asha Bhosle, who died on Sunday at the age of 92, by wearing black armbands during their IPL 2026 fixture against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Wankhede Stadium.
Bhosle, a towering presence in Indian music over eight decades, died at Breach Candy Hospital, where she had been admitted on Saturday. Maharashtra Culture Minister Ashish Shelar confirmed her passing to reporters outside the hospital, adding that her funeral would take place at Shivaji Park at 4 pm on Monday.
Minute's silence before match
Ahead of the match, the Wankhede Stadium observed a solemn minute's silence. Players and a large weekend crowd stood in tribute before the umpires signalled the start of play. Throughout the innings, the stadium sound system played several of Bhosle's iconic songs during extended breaks, offering a musical homage to the singer whose voice had long been part of India's cultural landscape.
MI players don black armbands
A source familiar with team plans said that the Mumbai Indians squad would wear black armbands during the game to honour the late singer, "Mumbai Indians players will be wearing black armbands in their IPL match tonight against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Wankhede Stadium to mourn the passing away of legendary singer Asha Bhosle," the source said.
Reactions from the cricket fraternity
Tributes poured in from across Indian cricket, with current and former players recalling the emotional depth and timeless quality of Bhosle's music.
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, who shared a long-standing bond with Bhosle, posted an emotional message on X, "A deeply sad day for India, and for music lovers across the world. For us, Asha Tai was family. Today, words feel too small for the loss we feel… Thank you, Tai, for filling our lives with warmth, grace, and unforgettable music. We will miss you beyond words, Asha Tai."
Virat Kohli, set to feature for RCB in the evening clash, wrote on Instagram stories, "Rest in peace, Asha Bhosle Ji. Your voice touched millions and will live on forever in our hearts. Om Shanti."
Men's national head coach Gautam Gambhir shared on X, "Saddened by the demise of legendary Asha Bhosle Ji. Her elegance and incomparable talent will always remain in our memories!"
Former opener Shikhar Dhawan added, "Grew up listening to her voice… and it never got old. Asha Bhosle ji will always remain timeless. Om Shanti."
Ex-India pacer Jhulan Goswami wrote, "Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Asha Bhosle ji. Her voice wasn't just music; it was emotion that touched generations. An irreplaceable loss for Indian music. Rest in peace."
Former spinner Anil Kumble said, "Heartfelt condolences on the passing of Asha Bhosale Ji. A voice that will never fade and a legacy that will always be remembered for her contribution to Indian music. Thoughts & prayers with her loved ones."
Asha Bhosle, the younger sister of fellow icon Lata Mangeshkar, was a lifelong supporter of Indian cricket. Over her illustrious career, she earned two Grammy nominations, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, and the Padma Vibhushan, cementing her place among India's greatest cultural figures.
(IANS)<