‘She gifted me the soundtrack to my success’: Zeenat Aman mourns Asha Bhosle; recalls her unmatched professionalism

Bhosle, whose voice defined several iconic songs picturised on Zeenat Aman, was cremated with full state honours at Shivaji Park in Mumbai on Monday.

Zeenat Aman’s emotional tribute

Mourning the loss, Zeenat Aman shared a moving post on social media, recalling how Bhosle’s voice became integral to her on-screen success.

Listing some of their most memorable collaborations, she wrote, “‘Dum Maro Dum’, ‘Chura Liya Hai Tumne Jo Dil Ko’, ‘Do Lafzon Ki Hai Dil Ki Kahani’, ‘Meri Soni Meri Tamanna’, ‘Khatouba’… the list goes on. One could perhaps say, Asha ji gifted me the soundtrack to my success!”

She added, “How very many hours I have spent with her voice in my ears and how much love I have received for lip-syncing along…”

A memory of unwavering professionalism

In her tribute, Zeenat Aman also recalled an incident in Kolkata that highlighted Bhosle’s dedication to her craft.

She shared how the singer, despite being in her 80s and recovering from an accident, honoured her commitment to perform at an event.

“…I was horrified to see that she was covered in bruises and nicks. It turned out that she had been in an accident the previous day, but was determined to keep her professional commitment!” Zeenat Aman wrote.

An eight-decade musical legacy

Born in 1933, Bhosle began her career at just 10 years old, singing for the Marathi film Majha Bal in 1943.

Over a career spanning more than eight decades, she became one of India’s most versatile playback singers. Her iconic songs include Piya Tu Ab To Aaja, Kajra Mohabbat Wala, and Dil Cheez Kya Hai.

Initially known for cabaret-style and light numbers, she later earned widespread acclaim for her mastery across genres, including ghazals and classical music.

Her passing marks the end of an era in Indian music, with tributes continuing to pour in from across the country.