Amazing Asha!

During my growing up days, All India Radio was the only source of entertainment for me. I would tune in to Bollywood songs on the radio. I am talking about the early 90s. I must have been 10, barely. I would get to listen to songs of Md. Rafi, Lata Mangeshkar, Manhar Udhas, Mukesh, Kishore Kumar, but the voice which stayed with me till now was of Asha Bhosle. Songs like “Chura Liya Hai Tumne,” “Piya Tu Ab to Aaja,” “Dum Maaro Dam,” "Dil Cheez Kya Hai," "O Mere Sona Re" and many more stayed with me till now. Her voice would generate energy and that was the inspiration for me.

Much later, when colour television came I would watch and listen to her on TV. But when I landed in Dubai a few years ago, I went to her restaurant which is located in Wafi Mall. I took many photos inside and outside of her restaurant. It was a very emotional moment for me. Much later, I met her at her restaurant in Dubai, and found out that she was very humble. She greeted everyone who was there to meet her. Despite so much success, name and fame, Asha Bhosle remained humble. I felt sad when I heard about her demise on Sunday, but her songs will always keep her alive.

Shakeel Hasan,
By email