For Chin2 Bhosle, music goes far beyond legacy — it is rooted in deeply personal emotion and lived experience. The singer-composer opens up about his heartfelt tribute to his grandmother, Asha Bhosle, the memories they shared, and the life lessons she left behind that continue to shape him.
In an exclusive conversation with ETimes, Chin2 revisits the song that once moved her to tears and recalls spontaneous moments of performing together on stage, offering a rare and intimate glimpse into the person behind the legend. He also reflects on building his own identity despite carrying a celebrated surname, his shift from the corporate world to music, and the values of resilience and adaptability that have been passed down through his family.
Creating the Tribute
Chin2 reveals that he created two songs for his grandmother: Chalte Chalte and Main Chala, both from the perspective of departure. He wrote them two years ago when Asha Bhosle was grieving the loss of her eldest son Hemant Bhosle and her daughter Varsha. When he played the song for her, she was moved to tears and initially could not listen to it again. Three months later, she requested to hear it once more but again broke down. Chin2 parked the song until after her passing, when friends asked about a tribute. Revisiting the track, he knew it was meant for her. “This is exactly how I feel, and this is the best way I can express it,” he says. The accompanying video features photographs of their journey together.
Performing Together
Asha Bhosle and Chin2 performed together many times. Their first show was in Surat about 15 years ago. Chin2 recalls how he never pressured her but expressed his desire to perform. One day, she invited him, and he eagerly joined her on stage. He remembers their first duet, where he twirled her during an interlude, surprising her initially but soon making her enjoy the moment. She later compared him to Kishore Kumar. He also recalls her dancing with a stick during a Marathi show, realizing where he inherited his energetic style.
Emotional Reaction and Artistic Validation
When Asha Bhosle reacted to the song, Chin2 felt both appreciated as an artist and understood as a grandson. He was touched that they shared the same emotional wavelength, though seeing her break down was bittersweet.
Teaching Music and Carrying Forward Values
Chin2 teaches music and often discussed with Asha Bhosle how to engage the next generation. He noticed that young students find Hindustani music boring due to rigid teaching methods. To address this, he created SRGMs — songs for nursery and kindergarten children that teach values through music. Asha Bhosle supported this initiative, acknowledging that while her legacy is untouchable, values can be passed on.
Life Lessons from Asha Bhosle
One key lesson Chin2 learned from his grandmother is the importance of restraint in singing. She taught him that technique alone does not differentiate singers; knowing when to hold back and what emotion a song demands is crucial. These nuanced lessons were more valuable than technical practice.
From Corporate Career to Music
Chin2 initially pursued an MBA from NMIMS and worked at an advertising agency for a year and a half. Feeling something missing, he approached Asha Bhosle about leaving his job to focus on music. She was initially upset but eventually supported his decision. He insisted on making his own way without using her name, wanting doors to open based on talent.
Band of Boys and Identity
Chin2 was part of the Band of Boys, where he often dodged questions about his relationship to Asha Bhosle. When she heard an interview, she felt he was ashamed of her. He clarified that he wanted people to know him first before associating him with her. Eventually, he proudly acknowledged their connection. The first time he asked for her professional help was to launch the band.
Legacy and Values
Chin2 believes it is unrealistic to claim to carry forward Asha Bhosle’s legacy, as her achievements are unparalleled. Instead, he focuses on carrying forward her values in his own way. He emphasizes that reflecting positively on her, even in a small way, is enough.
Asha Bhosle at Home
At home, Asha Bhosle was a grandmother, mother, homemaker, and friend, with endless energy. She would cook for visitors despite being tired from recordings. Even at 92, she remained curious and engaged. Chin2 says her energy inspires him never to complain about being tired.
Favorite Memory
Chin2’s favorite memory is of Asha Bhosle cooking mutton biryani, serving him personally, and sitting to watch him eat while chatting. Those moments of warmth and love stay with him.
Family Influence
His mother Alka Bhosle has been his backbone, supporting his passion. He grew up surrounded by strong women — his grandmother, mother, and wife — and credits them for shaping who he is.
Biggest Life Lesson
The most important lesson from his family is adaptability. They taught him that how one responds to life’s lows defines them. When tragedy struck, he saw firsthand the importance of adapting and moving forward.
Current Focus
Chin2 is now dedicated to teaching music to children, aiming to build a large-scale initiative akin to a “Disney of learning through music.” He believes music is his identity and family values are his foundation. He advises everyone to appreciate their family, as they make you who you are.
