Asha Bhosle Laid to Rest with Full State Honours

Mumbai: India bid farewell to one of its most iconic musical voices as legendary playback singer Asha Bhosle was cremated with full state honours on Monday at Shivaji Park in Mumbai, marking the end of an extraordinary era in Indian music.

Final journey of ‘Asha Tai’

Fondly known as ‘Asha Tai’, the veteran singer passed away on Sunday, April 12, at the age of 92. Her death was attributed to multi-organ failure following a cardiac arrest. She had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital a day earlier, where she was undergoing treatment for severe exhaustion and a chest infection.

In recognition of her immense contribution to the nation’s cultural landscape, the Maharashtra government accorded her a state funeral.

Farewell at Shivaji Park

The final rites took place at the historic Shivaji Park, the same venue where her elder sister, Lata Mangeshkar, was given a similar farewell.

Before the cremation, Asha Bhosle’s mortal remains were placed at her residence in Lower Parel from 11.00 am to 3.00 pm, allowing fans and members of the film fraternity to pay their last respects.

Large crowds gathered along the streets as the funeral procession moved towards Dadar. Thousands of grieving admirers stood in silence to bid farewell to the beloved singer.

At around 5.00 pm, the cremation took place in a solemn atmosphere. The ceremony included a 21-gun salute and a guard of honour presented by the Maharashtra Police.

Leaders and celebrities pay tribute

Several political leaders attended the funeral to honour the legendary singer. Among those present were Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar, along with ministers Chhagan Bhujbal, Ashish Shelar, Bharat Gogawale and Sanjay Shirsat.

Also in attendance were Raj Thackeray and Shiv Sena UBT MP Anil Desai.

From the film industry, prominent figures including Aamir Khan were present at the cremation. Many expressed deep sorrow, remembering her as one of the most versatile voices in the history of music.

Condolences pour in

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute, stating that he was deeply saddened by her passing. He noted that her remarkable musical journey, which spanned several decades, enriched India’s cultural heritage and touched millions across the world.

Members of the film fraternity, including Shah Rukh Khan, A R Rahman and Hema Malini, shared heartfelt messages. They described her as an irreplaceable pillar of Indian cinema.

Asha Bhosle’s career spanned more than eight decades, during which she built an unparalleled legacy. She was recognised by Guinness World Records as the most recorded artist in music history, with over 12,000 songs to her credit.

Her versatility allowed her to excel across genres, from classical ghazals and timeless melodies such as ‘Dil Cheez Kya Hai’ to energetic tracks like ‘Dum Maro Dum’.

Awards and lasting legacy

Throughout her illustrious career, she received numerous honours, including the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the Padma Vibhushan, and two National Film Awards.

While her passing leaves a profound void, admirers believe that her voice and music will continue to resonate for generations to come.

Agency inputs

Published: 13 Apr 2026, 06:37 pm IST

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