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New Delhi: Asha Bhosle (born September 8, 1933) remains one of India’s most celebrated playback singers and holds recognition in the Guinness World Records as the most recorded artist in music history. Over a career spanning eight decades, she lent her voice to more than 10,000 songs across languages and genres, including Hindi film music, ghazals and pop.

Early life and career

Born in Maharashtra to noted classical vocalist Dinanath Mangeshkar, she was the younger sister of legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar. After her father’s death, she began singing in the early 1940s to support her family.

Initially associated with lively cabaret-style tracks such as Piya Tu Ab To Aaja and O Mere Sona Re, she later earned critical acclaim for her nuanced performance in Umrao Jaan (1981), winning her first National Award.

Key collaborations

Her creative partnership with composer R. D. Burman proved historic. Their professional association later turned into marriage, and together they delivered numerous memorable songs.

Awards and honours

She received India’s highest cinema honour, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, in 2000 and was conferred the Padma Vibhushan in 2008. She also won seven Filmfare Awards for Best Female Playback Singer.

Record recognition

In 2011, Guinness World Records acknowledged her for the highest number of studio recordings by any artist.

Personal life

She had three children — Hemant, Varsha and Anand Bhosle.