Ilaiyaraaja calls Asha Bhosle sister in video tribute: Great talent, unique voice

Veteran music composer Ilaiyaraaja expressed his grief over the death of legendary singer Asha Bhosle. She died on April 12 at the age of 92, following hospitalisation at Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital.

In a video message shared on X, Ilaiyaraaja remembered the deep bond they shared. He said, "The amount of love and affection that she had for me, makes this more than just a sad news. At the same time, I won't be able to forget the amount of respect she had for me, as a playback singer. I will never be able to forget the great talent, that is Asha Bhosle. Her voice is a unique, unparalleled, and talented one."

Ilaiyaraaja recalled that even on brief visits to Chennai, Asha Bhosle always made it a point to meet him. He added, "Even if she comes to Chennai for the smallest reason, she never failed to visit me."

He concluded his tribute with a prayer for her legacy and condolences to her family, stating, "I pray that the almighty bestows greatness upon her. My condolences to her family."

Asha Bhosle's first Tamil song was Shenbagamae from the film Enga Ooru Paatukaaran (1987), which featured music composed by Ilaiyaraaja. Their partnership extended to other films such as Naan Sonnathe Sattam (1988) and Pudhu Paattu (1990).

Their final collaboration was the song, Nee Paartha Paarvai from Kamal Haasan's Hey Ram (2000), marking the end of a significant creative association.

Asha Bhosle's contribution to Indian music was immense, and her collaboration with Ilaiyaraaja remains a notable chapter in her career. The composer’s heartfelt tribute highlights the respect and affection they shared over the years.