Lata Mangeshkar, known as the Nightingale of India, was a legendary Indian playback singer and music composer. Born on September 28, 1929, in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, she began her illustrious career at just 13 years old after her father’s untimely demise. Her father, Pandit Deenanath Mangeshkar, was a classical singer and theater artist who introduced her to music at a tender age ¹.
Early Life and Career
Lata Mangeshkar’s journey in music started with her father’s guidance, and she later honed her skills under Ustad Aman Ali Khan of Bhindibazaar Gharana. She made her debut in the film industry with the song “Paa Lagoon Kar Jori” for Vasant Joglekar’s movie Aap Ki Seva Mein in 1946. Her breakthrough came with the hit song “Dil Mera Toda, Mujhe Kahin Ka Na Chhora” in the movie Majboor (1948), composed by Ghulam Haider ² ³.
Musical Legacy
Throughout her remarkable career spanning over seven decades, Lata Mangeshkar sang over 30,000 songs in various Indian languages, including Hindi, Bengali, and Marathi. Some of her notable works include ³ ² ¹:
– Patriotic Songs: “Aye Mere Watan Ke Logo” (1963), a patriotic song that moved Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru to tears
– Classic Hits: “Aaj Phir Jeene Ki Tamanna Hai” and “Gata Rahe Mera Dil” from Guide (1965)
– Collaborations: Worked with renowned composers like Naushad, Shankar-Jaikishan, S.D. Burman, and R.D. Burman
Awards and Recognition
Lata Mangeshkar received numerous accolades, including ³ ⁴ ¹:
– Bharat Ratna: India’s highest civilian honor (2001)
– Dadasaheb Phalke Award: A prestigious award for her contributions to Indian cinema (1989)
– National Film Awards: Won three National Film Awards for Best Female Playback Singer
– Filmfare Awards: Received four Filmfare Best Female Playback Awards and two Filmfare Special Awards
Philanthropy and Later Life
Lata Mangeshkar was also known for her philanthropic efforts, including establishing hospitals and donating to relief efforts. She continued to release albums and contribute to films even in her later years, earning her a place as one of the greatest female singers in the Hindi film industry
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