Happy Birthday Asha Bhosle: When 16-year-old eloped with sister Lata Mangeshkar’s 31-year-old secretary and married against her family’s will

Happy Birthday Asha Bhosle: When 16-year-old eloped with sister Lata Mangeshkar’s 31-year-old secretary and married against her family’s will

As a lifestyle expert reflecting on Asha Bhosle‘s extraordinary journey, I am deeply moved by her resilience and indomitable spirit. Her life story is a testament to the power of love, determination, and the will to overcome adversity.


As a lifestyle enthusiast, I’ve always admired the captivating melodies of Asha Bhosle that have touched our souls with an array of emotions. Yet, it’s unfortunate to note that love wasn’t as kind to her. Today marks her 91st birthday (September 8th), and I can’t help but reflect on a pivotal moment in her life when she made a bold move in the film industry by marrying a man who was almost twice her age. Interestingly enough, this gentleman was once my elder sister Lata Mangeshkar’s secretary at one point in time.

1949 marked the year when 16-year-old Asha Bhosle ran away with 31-year-old Ganpatrao Bhosle and against her family’s wishes, decided to marry him. The Mangeshkar family swiftly ended their relationship with Asha, but as soon as she had her first child, Heman, the anger began to soften. Meanwhile, the couple opted for a life together, but fate seemed unkind towards them, particularly Asha.

In 1960, Ganpatrao asked the veteran singer to leave their home when she was expecting her third child, and subsequently served her with divorce papers. However, Asha persevered as she now had a whole family to support. In an interview with Kavita Chhibber, Asha Bhosle disclosed that her former husband’s family were traditionally minded, struggling to accept her flourishing singing career.

Bhosle explained, “I experienced mistreatment and hardship, eventually being asked to depart when I was pregnant with my youngest son, Anand. I returned to live with my mother, sisters, and brother. I hold no grudges towards anyone, and all is well. If I hadn’t encountered Mr Bhosle, I believe I wouldn’t have been blessed with these three wonderful children, and things worked out for the best in the end.

Asha never hesitated to discuss her difficult past and has always approached life with a touch of humor and moved forward. Known for popular songs such as Jawani Janeman, Dum Maro Dum, Piya Tu Ab To Aaja, Yeh Mera Dil Yaar Ka Diwana, and Hungama Ho Gaya, she eventually married the renowned musician RD Burman in 1980.

Regrettably, Bhonsle and Pancham Da grew more distant as time passed because of Burman’s heavy drinking habits, yet they remained each other’s most ardent fans. Despite love not being particularly generous to our beloved Asha Bhosle, she ensures that our lives are enriched with her timeless love songs.

We wish the legendary singer, a long, healthy, and inspiring life ahead.

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2024-09-07 22:37