“I am distressed beyond words,” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said.
Senior Bollywood figures and politicians have paid tribute to Lata Mangeshkar, the singer who embodied music and melody for generations of Indians and who died on Sunday at the age of 92.
Ram Nath Kovind, President of India
“The passing of Lata ji is heartbreaking for me, as it is for millions of people around the world. In his vast range of songs, capturing the essence and beauty of India, generations have found expression of their emotions In Bharat Ratna, the achievements of Lata ji will remain incomparable.
“An artist born once in centuries, [she] was an exceptional human being, full of warmth, as I saw each time I met her. The divine voice is silent forever but its melodies will remain immortal, resounding in eternity. My condolences to his family and his admirers around the world.
Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India
“I am distressed beyond words. The kind and caring Lata has left us. She leaves a void in our country that cannot be filled. Future generations will remember her as a pillar of Indian culture, whose melodious voice had an unparalleled ability to hypnotize people.
“Her songs have brought out a variety of emotions. She has witnessed the transitions of the Indian film world firsthand for decades. Beyond films, she has always been passionate about the growth of India. She has always wanted to see a strong and developed India.
“I consider it an honor to have always received immense affection from Lata Didi. My exchanges with her will remain unforgettable. I mourn with my Indian compatriots the passing of Lata Didi.
Imran Khan, Prime Minister of Pakistan
“With the death of Lata Mangeshkar, the subcontinent has lost one of the greatest singers the world has ever known. Listening to her songs has given so much pleasure to so many people all over the world.
Hamid Karzai, former President of Afghanistan
“With her voice, Lata Mangeshkar has filled millions of hearts with joy. Her melodies are universal and eternal. My heartfelt condolences to her family and the people of India. May the nightingale of India rest in peace.
Rahul Gandhi, Member of Parliament, India
“She has remained India’s most beloved voice for many decades. Her golden voice is immortal and will continue to resonate in the hearts of her fans. My condolences to her family, friends and fans.”
Amitabh Bachchan, Bollywood actor
“She has left us… The voice of a million centuries has left us… her voice now resounds in the Heavens!” Prayers for calm and peace.
Anil Kapoor, actor
“Heartbroken, but blessed to have known and loved this amazing soul… Lata ji holds a place in our hearts that will never be taken by anyone else. That’s how profoundly impactful she made on our lives with her music. May she rest in peace and light up the skies with her brilliance.
Salman Khan, actor
“(You) will miss our nightingale. But (your) voice will live with us forever.
Karan Johar, filmmaker
“Today heaven truly gained the voice of an angel. I grew up listening to Lata ji’s song and as I mourn her loss today – I know with absolute confidence… that she left an indelible mark on our Indian culture for many generations to come.
“Thank you for making an entire nation swoon with your pure voice. RIP.”
India Cricket Board of Control
“The Indian cricket team today wears black armbands to pay tribute to Bharat Ratna Lata Mangeshkar-ji who left for his heavenly abode on Sunday morning. The queen of melody, Lata Didi loved cricket, always supported the game and supported Team India.
Virat Kohli, Indian cricketer
“Deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Lata ji. Her melodious songs have touched millions of people around the world. Thank you for all the music and the memories. My deepest condolences to the family and loved ones.”
Farhan Akhtar, actor and director
“So this is what it feels like to lose part of a nation that is a source of collective pride and joy. It hurts and leaves an indelible void. Sad, sad day. RIP Lata ji.
People pay their respects in front of a portrait of Bollywood singer Lata Mangeshkar, in Calcutta on February 6. —AFP
