About
Lata Mangeshkar was an Indian playback singer and occasional music composer, widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential singers in the history of Indian music. With a career spanning eight decades, she contributed to countless Bollywood films and recorded songs in numerous Indian languages. Mangeshkar's exceptional vocal range and emotional depth earned her honorific titles such as the "Queen of Melody" and "Voice of the Millennium". Her impact on Indian culture and music is immeasurable.
Career Timeline
First Playback Singing Role
Began her playback singing career in Marathi films at a young age. Her early work laid the foundation for what would become an unprecedented career in Indian music.
Breakthrough in Bollywood
Achieved breakthrough success with songs in major Hindi films, establishing herself as a premier playback singer. Her distinctive voice began to define the sound of Bollywood heroines.
National Recognition and Awards
Received her first National Film Award and became the undisputed voice of Indian cinema. Her dominance in playback singing made her indispensable to filmmakers across India.
Guinness World Record Listed
Listed in the Guinness Book of World Records for recording the most songs in history. This international recognition elevated her status beyond India to global awareness.
Dadasaheb Phalke Award
Received India's highest award in cinema, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. This honor solidified her position as the greatest female playback singer in Indian history.
Bharat Ratna India's Highest
Awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honor, recognizing her as a national treasure. This unprecedented recognition placed her among India's most revered cultural icons.
Death Sparks National Mourning
Passed away at age 92, prompting two days of national mourning in India. Her death was treated as a state loss, with tributes pouring in from world leaders and millions of fans.
Voice of the Millennium
Remains revered as the 'Nightingale of India' and the definitive voice of Indian cinema across eight decades. Her recordings continue to be played daily across South Asia, and she is universally recognized as one of India's greatest cultural figures, achieving immortal status in the world's second-most populous nation.
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Last updated: February 23, 2026