Legendary playback singer and Padma Vibhushan awardee Asha Bhosle passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at a private hospital in Mumbai. According to Breach Candy Hospital, she died due to multi-organ failure after being admitted with chest infection, exhaustion, and other complications.
Her son Anand Bhosle confirmed the news, saying, “My mother passed away today.” He added that the last rites will be performed at Shivaji Park at 4 pm on Monday, while the public can pay their last respects at her residence in Lower Parel from 11 am.
Hospitalisation after chest infection and cardiac complications
The singer was admitted on Saturday evening after her health deteriorated suddenly. Hospital sources said she was suffering from extreme exhaustion, chest infection, and later developed cardiac arrest and pulmonary complications.
Her granddaughter Zanai Bhosle had earlier informed that she was under treatment and requested privacy for the family during the medical emergency.
A career that shaped Indian music for decades
Born in 1933 in the Mangeshkar family, Asha Bhosle began singing at a very young age and recorded her first film song in 1943. Over the next eight decades, she became one of the most versatile voices in Indian music history.
She recorded more than 12,000 songs across multiple languages, working with generations of music composers and lending her voice to leading actresses such as Meena Kumari, Madhubala, Zeenat Aman, Kajol, and Urmila Matondkar.
Some of her most iconic songs include “Piya Tu Ab To Aaja,” “In Aankhon Ki Masti,” “Dil Cheez Kya Hai,” “Abhi Na Jao Chhod Kar,” and “Duniya Mein Logon Ko.”
Nation mourns the loss of a musical icon
Leaders across India expressed grief over her death. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was “deeply saddened,” calling her voice a priceless contribution to Indian culture.
Maharashtra Cultural Minister Ashish Shelar confirmed her passing outside the hospital, while West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said she had “reigned over hearts for generations.”
Music composers and singers also paid tribute. AR Rahman said, “She lives forever with her voice and aura.” Singer Shreya Ghoshal called her “limitless,” adding that Asha Bhosle “redefined music itself.”
Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan and Union Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed condolences, calling her voice “timeless” and her legacy “indelible.”
Last rites and final farewell
According to the family, Asha Bhosle’s body will be kept for public tribute at her residence before the final rites at Shivaji Park in Mumbai. Large crowds of fans, artists, and dignitaries are expected to attend the funeral.
