On this poignant death anniversary of Bharat Ratna Lata Mangeshkar, the Nightingale of India, her timeless voice continues to echo through the hearts of millions. While she immortalized Hindi and Marathi cinema with her melodies, her foray into Bhojpuri music added a unique sweetness to the folk culture of eastern India. Lata ji’s Bhojpuri songs, infused with devotion, romance, and rustic charm, remain etched in public memory even decades later.
Her journey in Bhojpuri began in the 1960s, breathing new life into the nascent industry. Songs like ‘He Ganga Maiya Tohe Piyari Chadhibo’ from the landmark 1963 film of the same name set the gold standard. Directed by Kundan Kumar, this pioneering movie starred Kumkum, Asheem Kumar, and Nazir Hussain, weaving a tale of widow remarriage. Lata’s soulful rendition, with music by Chitragupta and lyrics by Shailendra, turned it into a cultural anthem, where she fervently prays to Mother Ganga.
Another gem, ‘Laali Laali Hotwa Se Barse Lalaaiya’ from ‘Laagi Nahin Chute Ram’ (also 1963), captures the essence of undying love. The same directorial vision brought this romantic hit to life, with Lata’s tender vocals making it an evergreen love ballad. Chitragupta’s composition elevated the film’s status as one of Bhojpuri’s early blockbusters.
From the same debut film came ‘Luk Chhip Badra Mein,’ a playful romantic number brimming with hide-and-seek flirtations amid clouds. Lata’s enchanting voice, paired with Chitragupta’s melody and Shailendra’s words, contributed immensely to the film’s success and marked a memorable start for Bhojpuri soundtracks.
Considered her first Bhojpuri venture, ‘Umarriya Kailyi Tohre Naam’ resonates with profound dedication, dedicating life itself to a beloved. Lata’s emotive delivery stirs the soul, ensuring its enduring popularity across generations. These tracks not only showcased her versatility but also propelled Bhojpuri music onto a national stage, blending folk traditions with cinematic finesse. As fans revisit these treasures, Lata Mangeshkar’s legacy in regional cinema shines undimmed.