Asha Bhosle Records Soulful Bhajan for Ashapura Mata at Age 91 in Mumbai Studio
In a poignant musical moment, legendary playback singer Asha Bhosle, at the age of 91, entered a recording studio in Versova, Mumbai, on October 4, 2024, to lend her iconic voice to a devotional bhajan dedicated to Ashapura Mata. This session occurred barely a month after she celebrated her 91st birthday, showcasing her enduring passion for music and spirituality.
A Devotional Atmosphere Filled with Emotion
The bhajan, which praises the compassionate and nurturing qualities of Ashapura Mata—a deity revered as a kuldevi (family goddess) by several communities in Gujarat—created a deeply devotional atmosphere in the studio. As Bhosle's soul-stirring voice resonated, it moved everyone present, including her longtime associate Mahesh Rathore, who recalled, "We couldn't control our tears." The song conveys a message of divine embrace, suggesting that anyone who approaches Ashapura Mata with childlike innocence will have their heartfelt wishes fulfilled.
Request from a Revered Saint and Prompt Agreement
The recording was initiated through a special request from Pujya Bhaijee, a revered saint of the Ashapura Mata temple in Padavla, Gondal. He asked Mahesh Rathore, who served as secretary-cum-caretaker to Lata Mangeshkar for 28 years and has closely observed Asha Bhosle for a similar duration, to approach the singer. Rathore conveyed the request, and Bhosle agreed immediately, surprising the team with her prompt response.
Yuvrajsinh Zala, the director of the video, explained, "We were not sure if she would agree immediately, but she said yes the moment Maheshbhai conveyed the request." The song was penned by Mumbai-based lyricist Ravi Chopra and set to music by composer Shiva Chopra, adding to its artistic depth.
Family Connections and Personal Affection
This devotional project holds personal significance, as Usha Mangeshkar had previously recorded a bhajan for Ashapura Mata in 2021, which received a letter of appreciation from Lata Mangeshkar, who believed in the deity's powers. Rathore, now living in his native Morangi village in Rajula, Gujarat, after Lata's death in February 2022, remains in constant touch with Bhosle, who spends much of her time in Dubai.
Rathore shared an emotional anecdote about Bhosle's affection for his family, noting that she was delighted to hear about his eldest daughter Gayatri pursuing law. "She told me to ensure the best education for all three daughters and my son, and asked me to make Gayatri a collector," he said, his voice choked with emotion. He added that Bhosle often called him to help manage her works during her Mumbai visits, feeling blessed by the affection from such a renowned figure.
A Legacy of Devotion and Musical Excellence
This recording highlights Asha Bhosle's unwavering dedication to her craft and spiritual roots, even in her nineties. It also underscores the deep bonds within the Mangeshkar family and their associates, with Rathore noting that Lata Mangeshkar tied a rakhi for him for years, symbolizing their close relationship. The bhajan serves as a testament to the enduring power of music to connect with divinity and evoke profound emotions.
