The legendary Lata Mangeshkar’s demise has left the nation in a state of grief but her voice remains etched in our hearts. There never was and never can be another Lata Mangeshkar and India can never have another Nightingale; which is why, we’ve not stopped thinking about her ever since the news of her passing away came. Her songs have kept playing in my head ever since. She’s in the Guinness Book Of World Records for having over 25,000 songs to her name so one cannot really choose few favourites, can we? Yet, this is just my humble effort and a tribute of sort to the late legendary singer as I pick out ten of her songs which will remain immortal. Take a look.
Lag Ja Gale
I am sure, every person who’s ever been in love relates to this one and Lataji’s voice just hits that spot in the heart which makes you feel so much. Lag Jaa Gale from Woh Kaun Thi released in 1964 with music composed by Madan Mohan Kohli, and none of us even from the new generation have been able to get over this song.
Ajeeb Dastan Hai Yeh
Ajeeb Daastaan Hai Yeh from Dil Apna Aur Preet Parai, is a cult and I can’t even begin to describe the variations or just how beautifully it has been rendered by Lataji. Interestingly, out of 7 songs from this film, Lataji has lent her voice to 5 songs. We can all hear Ajeeb Daastaan…on repeat, right?
Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon
This patriotic song was first sung by Lataji on the Republic Day of 1963, after the Sino-Indian War in 1962. Ae Mere Watan Ke Logo still brings tears to our eyes as the citizens of India and gives us this rush of patriotism. There couldn’t have been a better tribute to the soldiers who have fought for the country.
Naam Gum Jaayega
This song was tailor made for Lata ji because which other voice could perhaps do justice to it? The beautiful lyrics penned by Gulzar, R.D Burman’s music with Lataji and Bhupinder’s voice – this is such a dream team.
Rahe Na Rahe Hum
This beautiful track makes one emotional at this point, at it can be dedicated to the late singer. One cannot express enough about it. So, let’s just hear it, one more time!
Tere Bina Zindagi Se Koi
This one is a classic which is going to remain immortal in every sense. Kishore Kumar and Lata ji coming together for a duet composed by R.D Burman. Who can deny this is one of her best?
Baahon Mein Chale Aao
She could make a song sound romantic, sensual and innocent at the same time with her voice. Her voice could personify romance truly! I must admit, the combination of Burman and Lataji has been out of this world.
Yeh Kahaan Aa Gaye Hum
Every time Lata ji has collaborated with Yash Chopra, only magic has unfolded. Be it Silsila, Daag, Lamhe, Chandni, Darr, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jaayenge, Dil To Pagal Hai or Veer Zara. Yeh Kahaan Aa Gaye Hum is soul-stirring and how! Her voice is just love and she’s proved it more than 25,000 times!
Dil To Pagal Hai
I hear the title track of Dil To Pagal Hai for the part where Lata ji sings, Dil Ka Kehna Hum Sab Maane, Dil Na Kisi Ki Maane… I don’t know how she does it, but this queen of melody hits a note that just hits the right button within us.
Luka Chuppi
This song, every time and anytime gives goosebumps and teary eyes. AR Rahman’s composition is genius but the way Lataji has rendered it, just makes me speechless. I don’t think one can say enough about this one.
Like I said, it’s not possible to choose just 10 amidst her huge body of work and the melodious songs she’s gifted us. But these are my personal favourites and I feel so happy that her voice will be with us forever. We truly miss you Lata ji.