Legendary playback singer and Bharat Ratna recipient Lata Mangeshkar celebrates her 89th birthday today. The Queen of Melody has ruled India’s music scene for more than seven decades now, having sung in more than a thousand Hindi films and in 36 languages.
President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished the Nightingale of India on her birthday.
Birthday greetings and best wishes for a long and healthy life to @mangeshkarlata, who has been honoured with the Bharat Ratna. May her melodious voice continue to mesmerise millions across the world for years to come #PresidentKovind
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) September 28, 2018
Respected Lata Didi, best wishes to you on your birthday. Your exceptional work, spanning decades has endeared you to crores of Indians. You have always been passionate about our country’s development. May you lead a long life filled with good health. @mangeshkarlata
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 28, 2018
Honoured with the Bharat Ratna in 2001, Lata Mangeshkar was the first Indian to perform in the Royal Albert Hall in 1974. She was also conferred the Legion of Honour, the highest civilian award of France.
Lata is also a recipient of Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan. And her award list is even longer. From National Awards to film awards to regional awards, she has won all.
As the Melody Queen turns 89, here’s a look back to some of her most celebrated songs.
1. Aaja Re Pardesi (1958)
This song had been composed for the film, ‘Madhumati’, starring Dilip Kumar, Vyjayanthimala, Pran and Johnny Walker.
Lata Mangeshkar had won the Filmfare award for playback singer for the sing.
2. Kahin Deep Jale Kahin Dil (1962)
She was awarded the Filmfare award for lending her voice to the song from ‘Bees Saal Baad’
3. Tum Hi Mere Mandir (1965)
The singer received the Filmfare award for best playback singer for this song penned by Rajendra Krishan. It was from the film ‘Khandan’ which starred Sunil Dutt and Nutan in lead roles.
4. Aap Mujhe Achhe Lagne Le (1969)
This song which was composed for the film ‘Jeene Ki Raah’ won her the Filmfare Award for the Best Female Playback singer.
5. Beeti Na Bitai Raina (1972)
This song from the film Parichay led the singer once again to win the Filmfare award for best female playback singer.
6. Yaara Seeli Seeli (1991)
The unforgettable number from the Vinod Khanna, Dimple Kapadia and Hema Malini starrer ‘Lekin’ was composed by Hridyanath Mangeshkar with lyrics by Gulzar.