Known as India’s Nightingale, Lata Mangeshkar is the recipient of the Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Dada Saheb Phalke awards. She has not only sung an extensive number of songs in Hindi, but has also contributed to the regional languages of Marathi and Bengali. Coming from a Musical background, she has also composed quite a few songs.
Born in 1929, she was the oldest of 5 siblings, of which singer Asha Bhonsle was one. Their father was classical musician Pandit Deenanath Mangeshkar, who gave the young Lata Mangeshkar her first music lesson. In 1942, when her father died, 13-year-old Lata Mangeshkar began her career in music, juggling singing with acting parts in Marathi films. She saw success after success, given the sweetness of her voice, and reached great heights in the film industry, mesmerising thousands through her voice.
Among Lata Mangeshkar’s most iconic songs is the patriotic composition Aye Mere Watan Ke Logo; the song, commemorating Indian soldiers who died in the 1962 war with China, was performed on Republic Day in 1963 at the National Stadium in New Delhi. Lata Mangeshkar sang it live in the presence of President S Radhakrishnan and Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
Two-day national mourning to be observed in memory of Lata Mangeshkar. The National flag to fly at half-mast for two days, as a mark of respect, say government sources. Her mortal remains are to be taken to Shivaji Park, so people can pay homage to the legendary singer.