Bhubaneswar: The passing of legendary playback singer Asha Bhosle at the age of 92 has left a deep void in Indian music. Renowned for her versatility across languages and genres, her contribution extended significantly to Odia music as well.

A rich contribution to Odia music

Over the decades, Asha Bhosle lent her voice to several memorable Odia songs, showcasing her adaptability and command over regional nuances. Her popular Odia tracks include ‘Jhimi Jhimi Ta Maza' from Samaya (1976), ‘To Na re Pindhili Chudi’ from Maa (1959), ‘Moina Moina’ from Topaye Sindooro Di Pata Sankha (1993), and ‘Jahna Go Tume Jhurana’ from Arati (1981).

She also rendered ‘Bande Utkal Janani’ in the film Biju Babu (2019), reaffirming her enduring connection with Odia culture.

Final Odia recording

In 2017, Asha Bhosle recorded her last Odia song alongside her granddaughter Zanai Bhosle and noted playback singer Shankar Mahadevan. The track marked a symbolic passing of the musical legacy to the next generation.

Additionally, she contributed to ‘Manimaa’, regarded as the first Odia Jagannath bhajan produced by Devitosh Acharya, further highlighting her spiritual and cultural engagement with Odisha.

End of an era

Asha Bhosle passed away in Mumbai on Sunday after being admitted to the Breach Candy Hospital due to extreme exhaustion and a chest infection. Her last rites will be held at Shivaji Park on Monday at 4 pm.

An unmatched musical journey

Beginning her career with the 1943 Marathi film Majha Bal, Asha Bhosle went on to record nearly 12,000 songs in over 20 languages. She collaborated with legendary composers such as R.D. Burman, O.P. Nayyar, Ilaiyaraaja, Bappi Lahiri, and A.R. Rahman.

Honoured with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2000 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2008, her legacy remains unparalleled in Indian music history.