Asha Bhosle Birthday Special: Here’s To The 80 Years Of EVERGREEN Musical Excellence!

The eight-decade-long contribution of Asha Bhosle is what links Umrao Jaan, Rangeela, Taal, and Lagaan from a later era to older works like ‘Naya Daur’, ‘Hum Dono’, and ‘Teesri Manzil.’ She has strong voice, excellent tone control, and a knack for live performances, so it's no surprise that she's still well-liked today. Asha Ji has consistently performed her songs with amazing grace, whether it be a complex classical number like ‘Dil Cheez Kya Hai’ or a peppermint pronouncement like ‘Haal Kaisa Hai Janaab Ka.’

Asha Ji has had a multi-decade career that is still going strong today. She is known for pushing the envelope and trying out many musical styles. In honour of her milestone 90th birthday event scheduled for tonight in Dubai, we take a look back at her storied career and compile a playlist of her 11 greatest songs for the ideal throwback evening.

(Also Read: Asha Bhosle's Heartfelt APOLOGY To Her Late Sister Lata Mangeshkar Will Leave You In TEARS!)

Aaiye Meherban (Howrah Bridge, 1958)

‘Aaiye Meherbaan’ is the song that must be given the most credit for being the first to deliver tons of oomph in Asha's distinctive manner. This song, which is based on Madhubala, brings the sensuality element to the fore like no other. The song is composed by OP Nayyar.

Abhi Na Jao Chodkar (Hum Dono, 1961)

When a song is penned by Sahir Ludhianvi, performed by Mohammad Rafi, and composed by Jaidev, it is sure to touch people's hearts. The song, which was based on Dev Anand and Sadhana, is one of the most innocent depictions of courtship. This song was once considered as the most romantic song in Hindi film by the reigning king of romance, Shah Rukh Khan.

Piya Tu Ab Toh Aaja (Caravan, 1971)

A collaboration between some of the best artists, including R.D. Burman, Asha Bhosle, and Helen, made this song from Caravan one of the most recognizable songs ever. For this song, Asha also received the Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer. This song has won a permanent place on the list of timeless vintage tunes thanks to its alluring lyrics and captivating music.

Dum Maaro Dum (Hare Rama Hare Krishna, 1971)

For Asha, the early 1970s represented a fresh start. With movies like ‘Caravan’, ‘Andaz’, and ‘Anamika’, she attained the height of her fame. Next came the revolutionary Hare Rama Hare Krishna. Zeenat Aman has acknowledged in writing that Asha Bhosle's voice significantly contributed to her fame, particularly in the two songs ‘Dum Maro Dum’ and ‘Chura Liya’, which propelled Zeenat to previously unimaginable heights. With complete conviction, Asha brought the spirit of youth and freedom to this song, which deservedly earned her the Filmfare Award for best singer.

Chura Liye Hain Tumne (Yaadon Ki Baarat, 1973)

This song is remembered for bringing together some of the greatest musical minds of all time, including R.D. Burman, Asha Bhosle, and Mohammed Rafi. Zeenat enters the screen holding a guitar, but Asha enters the frame and our hearts when she sings ‘Chura Liya.’ The song continues to be at the top of the list of all-time's most romantic tunes. The fact that 20 years after the song's initial release, UK-based singer Bally Sagoo remade it and achieved record-breaking sales in Britain is evidence of its ageless quality.

In Aakhon Ki Masti (Umrao Jaan, 1981)

Composed by Khayyam, the expertly performed ghazals in the movie Umrao Jaan propelled Asha Bhosle to infamy. Rekha played this song as part of Umrao's courtesan debut. Other well-known ghazals from the album are ‘Justuju Jiski Thi’, ‘Dil Cheez Kya Hai’, and ‘Yeh Kya Jagah Hai Doston.’ The vocalist was also given the National Award for this movie's best singer.

Raat Baaki (Namak Halal, 1982)

Despite the song's star-studded cast, which includes actors like Parveen Babi, Amitabh Bachchan, and Shashi Kapoor, Asha Bhosle's performance is the best. This song will still be a favourite in 2023 because she placed the appropriate notes in the proper locations, making it compel a weekly visit. The song is composed by Bappi Lahiri.

Mera Kuch Samaan (Ijaazat, 1987)

Asha Bhosle still considers this song from the movie ‘Ijaazat’ to be one of her most depressing songs and a personal favourite. She described this song as autobiographical in an interview with The Fader magazine in 2005, saying, "Mera Kuch Samaan..This song is my life in a nutshell." She added that Pancham had jocularly referred to Mera Kuch Samaan as a "luggage song" in a 2010 tweet. On tour, her band members continue to use the phrase. This song by Gulzar, Pancham, and Asha is a keeper.

Kahin Aag Lage (Taal, 1999)

This song has a distinct place in Indian music history because to the flawless instrumentation, Shiamak Davar's dancing group keeping time, and Asha's recording navigating the paths of high and low notes. Aishwarya Rai's character Mansi is discovered by Anil Kapoor, who offers her a break by giving her a magical makeover. The song, which is a game-changer in many respects, appears at this crucial point. Is there a voice better suited to announce a newcomer's entry onto the international stage than Asha's? The song is composed by none other than A. R Rahman.

Radha Kaise Na Jale (Lagaan. 2001)

Asha Bhosle and A. R. Rahman have once again created a masterpiece. Udit Narayan's voice captures the playful taunting brilliantly, but Asha's melancholy voice perfectly captures the jealousy's aches. It is without a doubt one of Asha's best songs from the new millennium. The magic of Maha Raas, which was originally performed by Krishna and Radha on full moon evenings, is recreated through the use of dhol, dandiyas, and the flute as well as her alaaps and facial expressions.

(Also Read: Jawan: Kangana Ranaut's HEARTFELT Tribute To Shah Rukh Khan After Film Release, Recalls His Journey From Struggle To Success! (View Pic))

There are several more songs which are not included but in reality, no matter how many songs are included, Asha Ji is impossible to get enough of.