Asha Bhosle, the legendary playback singer, passed away at the age of 92, and the cricket fraternity has expressed its heartfelt condolences. The Indian playback singer was admitted to the hospital after suffering a heart attack on Saturday. Her death would mark the end of an era in Bollywood music, as she had a long career of over 80 years, in which she had sung over 8,000 songs.

Several cricketers and global icons have expressed their grief on social media, and many of the Indian legends claim that they grew up listening to her songs. Asha Bhosle’s songs had a significant influence on many people beyond the industry, as her songs were mesmerising, which is why she was considered the Queen of Indian playback singing.

Tributes pour in as legends recall her timeless influence on cricket and culture

"She is a lovely, gentlewoman with a wonderful sense of humour. What a tremendous opportunity to work with an absolute legend. She was in her 70s and had sung thousands of songs for Bollywood movies and had countless albums. She was the Aretha Franklin of Indian music”, wrote Brett Lee in his autobiography, “My Life”.

The legendary Australian fast bowler, Brett Lee, had the opportunity to sing along with Asha Bhosle in a music video, and the veteran was all praises for the Indian playback singer. The music video was shot back in 2009 when Brett Lee arrived in India to play the ICC Champions Trophy.

She was present at the ICC World Cup 2023 Final in Ahmedabad to watch the game between India and Australia as a spectator alongside celebrities like Shah Rukh Khan. She has shared social spaces with cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar, who are admirers of classical music. Her musical works have been used for celebrations of the national side when they win major ICC tournaments or trophies.

Asha Bhosle’s work of ‘Aye Watan Tere Litye” sung along with Mohammed Aziz, has been used in broadcast montages to symbolise strong patriotic sentiment. Asha Bhosle has also performed her renditions of “Saare Jahan Se Accha”, which are used in ceremonials or post-match celebrations.

Asha Bhosle’s soul will live through her works that are widely used in Indian cricket culture. Millions of fans across the globe have expressed their sadness at the Indian cultural icon’s passing, and the cricketing fraternity is deeply saddened by the loss.