Asha Bhosle, legendary playback singer, dies at 92

Asha Bhosle, one of India’s most celebrated playback singers, passed away at age 92 on April 12, 2026, in Mumbai.

She was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital on April 11 due to exhaustion, chest infection, cardiac issues, or heart attack, with some reports citing multiple organ failure; her son Anand and granddaughter Zanai confirmed her death. Her condition deteriorated rapidly in the ICU, marking a sudden end after months of frail health.

Over eight decades, Bhosle recorded over 12,000 songs in multiple languages, collaborating with composers like R.D. Burman and O.P. Nayyar on hits such as “Piya Tu Ab To Aaja” and “Dum Maro Dum.” Known for her versatile voice in Bollywood, ghazals, cabaret, and pop, she earned India’s Padma Vibhushan and Dadasaheb Phalke Award, cementing her as a Guinness-recognized recording artist. The younger sister of Lata Mangeshkar, her death closes a golden era of Indian music.

Her last rites are scheduled for April 13 at 4 PM, with mortal remains available for public viewing at her Lower Parel residence from 11 AM. Tributes are pouring in from the film industry, government figures, and fans worldwide.