Lata Mangeshkar: February 6, 2026, marks the fourth death anniversary of legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar, fondly remembered as the ‘Nightingale of India’. The iconic playback singer passed away on February 6, 2022, at the age of 92, leaving behind a musical legacy that continues to resonate across generations, languages and borders.
Even four years after her passing, Lata Mangeshkar’s voice remains timeless—woven deeply into India’s cultural and emotional fabric. Fans, musicians and admirers across the world remember her not just as a singer, but as a symbol of melody, grace and dedication.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Lata Mangeshkar was born on September 28, 1929, in Indore, then part of British India. She was introduced to music at a very young age by her father, Pandit Deenanath Mangeshkar, a renowned classical singer and theatre artist. After his untimely death, Lata took on the responsibility of supporting her family, a journey that led her into the world of Indian cinema.
Her early struggles soon gave way to unprecedented success, as her distinctive voice began shaping the sound of Hindi film music.
A Musical Journey Spanning Seven Decades
Over a career that lasted nearly seven decades, Lata Mangeshkar recorded more than 30,000 songs in over 36 languages, including Hindi, Marathi, Tamil, Bengali, Kannada and Urdu. She became one of the most recorded artists in music history.
Her collaborations with legendary composers such as S. D. Burman, Madan Mohan, Naushad, Laxmikant-Pyarelal and Shankar-Jaikishan defined the golden era of Bollywood. Whether romantic melodies, classical compositions or patriotic anthems, her voice conveyed emotion with unmatched purity and depth—earning her the title ‘Swar Kokila’.
Awards and Recognition
Lata Mangeshkar received numerous national and international honours, including the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award. She was also a multiple-time Filmfare Award winner and recipient of several national recognitions for her contribution to Indian music.
10 Iconic Songs That Define Lata Mangeshkar’s Legacy
- Lag Jaa Gale – Woh Kaun Thi (1964)
- Ajeeb Dastaan Hai Yeh – Dil Apna Aur Preet Parai (1960)
- Aap Ki Nazron Ne Samjha – Anpadh (1962)
- Aaj Kal Paon Zameen Par Nahin Padte – Ghar (1978)
- Sheesha Ho Ya Dil Ho – Asha (1980)
- Piya Tose Naina Laage Re – Guide (1965)
- Tere Bina Zindagi Se – Aandhi (1975)
- Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon (1963)
- Humko Humise Chura Lo – Mohabbatein (2000)
- Naam Gum Jayega – Kinara (1977)
A Voice That Lives Forever
On her fourth death anniversary, Lata Mangeshkar is remembered not only for her extraordinary voice but for the emotions she brought alive through music. Her songs continue to comfort, inspire and unite listeners, ensuring that the Nightingale of India lives on—forever in melody.