Nitin Mukesh remembers Lata Mangeshkar on birth anniversary, says ‘I long to hear you in person’

Nitin took to social media on September 28 and posted a picture of Lata Mangeshkar alongside a younger version of himself. Reflecting on the memories they shared, he wrote an emotional note expressing his longing to hear her voice once again.

“Each living moment I long to hear you in person... Till we meet once again, let the Gods rejoice with your music,” Nitin wrote.

The tribute also reflects the close connection Lata shared with Nitin’s father, legendary playback singer Mukesh. Nitin has previously spoken about how well Lata knew his father from a young age and how Mukesh affectionately addressed her as “Didi”.

Lata Mangeshkar and Mukesh were among the most celebrated playback partnerships of Hindi cinema’s golden era. Their voices came together for several enduring songs, including “Chhod Gaye Balam” from Barsaat, “Dam Bhar Udhar Munh Phere” from Awaara, “Dil Tadap Tadap Ke” from Madhumati, “Dil Ki Nazar Se” from Anari, “Saawan Ka Mahina” from Milan, “Phool Tumhe Bheja Khat Mein” from Saraswatichandra and “Main Na Bhoolunga” from Roti Kapda Aur Makaan.

Their friendship extended beyond their professional association. Mukesh died in 1976 after suffering a heart attack while performing in Detroit. Lata was also part of the show and, according to accounts, helped with the formalities before accompanying his mortal remains back to India.

Nitin Mukesh subsequently carried forward his family’s musical legacy, establishing himself as a playback singer in his own right. Over the course of his career, he worked with several leading composers and singers and lent his voice to popular songs including “Zindagi Ki Na Toote Ladi” from Kranti, “Aaja Re O Mere Dilbar” from Noorie, “So Gaya Yeh Jahan” from Tezaab, “My Name Is Lakhan” from Ram Lakhan and “Tu Mujhe Suna”.

Lata Mangeshkar was born on September 28, 1929. One of the most influential voices in Indian playback singing, she died in Mumbai on February 6, 2022, at the age of 92. Her music and legacy continue to remain deeply woven into the history of Indian cinema.