On Lata Mangeshkar’s birth anniversary, a look back at her 7 most iconic melodies

Mumbai: On the birth anniversary of legendary playback singer Lata Mangeshkar, India remembers the unmatched voice that defined generations of music lovers. Born on September 28, 1929, in Indore, Lata Ji recorded over 25,000 songs in more than 30 languages over a career spanning eight decades.

Affectionately called the ‘Nightingale of India’, her voice became synonymous with love, longing, devotion, and patriotism.

She passed away on February 6, 2022, at the age of 92 due to multiple organ failure after a prolonged illness following a Covid-19 infection. Her death marked the end of an era, but her songs continue to resonate in the hearts of millions.

On this occasion, here are seven unforgettable songs that immortalised her voice:

1. Lag Ja Gale (1964)

From the film ‘Woh Kaun Thi’, this hauntingly beautiful track remains one of Lata Ji’s most cherished songs. Its emotional depth and soul-stirring melody continue to strike a chord with listeners even today.

2. Pyar Kiya To Darna Kya (1960)

A grand declaration of love from ‘Mughal-e-Azam’, this iconic song not only highlights the timeless romance of Anarkali and Salim but also showcases Lata Ji’s unmatched vocal control. It reportedly took 105 takes to record this historic track.

3. Ajeeb Dastan Hai Yeh (1960)

Featured in ‘Dil Apna Aur Preet Parai’, this song’s poignant lyrics and Lata Ji’s expressive rendition gave it a unique identity in Bollywood’s golden era.

5. Aye Mere Watan Ke Logo (1963)

This patriotic song, first performed on Republic Day in front of Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, moved the entire nation. Lata Ji’s powerful rendition remains one of India’s most stirring musical tributes to its martyrs.

7. Ek Pyaar Ka Nagma Hai (1972)

From ‘Shor’, this philosophical yet melodic number reflects life’s fleeting beauty. Lata Ji’s voice elevated the lyrics into a timeless piece of art.

4. Tujhe Dekha To (1995)

A 90s anthem from ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’, this duet with Kumar Sanu became synonymous with young romance and reaffirmed Lata Ji’s ability to stay relevant across decades.

6. Tere Liye (2004)

From ‘Veer-Zaara’, this soulful track, composed by Madan Mohan (posthumously) and arranged by his son Sanjeev Kohli, reaffirmed Lata Ji’s unmatched ability to bring alive deep emotions even in the later stages of her career.

Lata Mangeshkar’s legacy is not just in her awards, Padma Vibhushan, Bharat Ratna, or countless honours, but in the emotions she stirred with every note. On her birth anniversary, India celebrates the voice that will remain immortal as long as music lives.