28 September 1929 – 06 February 2022
Legendary Indian singer Lata Mangeshkar has passed away at the age of 92, plunging the entire music community and fans into mourning. Whereas just the day before Art devotees, musicians and scholars celebrated Vasant Panchami, a festival dedicated to the Goddess of knowledge and music Sarasvati. Many would agree that she was the gracious epitome of the Goddess on earth. Lata Mangeshkar’s phenomenally gifted voice nurtured many generations and enchanted millions of hearts across the globe.
End of an Era
Melody Queen Lata Mangeshkar was the most beloved voice of Indian Cinema for over six decades. She gave her voice to thousands of songs for countless Indian movies-mainly Bollywood-in various languages. Her vast work in the film industry made her one of the greatest singers the world has known. Fondly referred to as the Nightingale of the country. “Lata Mangeshkar isn’t just an icon, she’s a part of India’s music and poetry; this voice will remain forever” says composer A.R. Rahman in The Times of India.
Inspiring the Diaspora
Lata Mangeshkar played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural identity of the Sarnami-Hindustani community in South-America and The Netherlands. Generations grew up listening to her songs played on Hindustani radio stations. These songs inspired aspiring artists from the Diaspora community to take a keen interest in music, dance, theatre, film, books. And many music events have been organized dedicated to Lata Ji’s work.
Awards and International icon
The Indian government acknowledged Mangeshkar for her musical legacy and decorated her with many awards such as the Padma Bhushan (1969), Padma Vibhushan (1999), Bharat Ratna (2011). She also received appreciation outside India, with the highest decoration in France ‘Legion of Honour’ in 2007. And in 1974 she was the first female musician from India to perform at the Royal Albert Hall in London.
Condolences
Social media is being flooded with grieving messages over the demise of the legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar this morning. The government of India announced a 2-day national mourning for Lata Ji and PM Narendra Modi will attend her funeral in Mumbai.
DesiYUP Team is extremely saddened by Lata Mangeshkar Ji’s demise. Our heartfelt condolences to her family, admirers, and the music & film industry of India. She will be missed! But her voice and memories will live eternally in our hearts and she will continue to bring joy and happiness to many generations to come.
Aum Shanti Shanti Shanti
