– Asheesh Poddar
Four years after India lost two of its most beloved musical icons within days of each other, the legacy of Bappi Lahiri and Lata Mangeshkar continues to resonate with listeners across generations. Their passing in February, 2022 marked not only the end of two extraordinary journeys in Indian music—but also drew attention to a deeply personal and enduring association that began in Bappi’s childhood.
A relationship rooted in family and faith: Long before Bappi Lahiri became the flamboyant ‘Disco King’ of Bollywood, he was a child growing up in a home steeped in music. Lata Mangeshkar, already a towering presence in playback singing of Indian cinema, shared a close bond with Lahiri’s family and was a frequent visitor. Lahiri often reminisced that she held him in her arms as a toddler—an early blessing he believed that shaped his destiny in music. He would later describe her as “Maa” and even as “Saraswati,” the goddess of music, reflecting the deep reverence and affection he carried for her throughout his life.
A collaboration that shaped a career: As Lahiri entered the film industry, Mangeshkar’s voice became an integral part of his musical journey. Lata Mangeshkar was among the earliest leading playback singers to lend her voice to Bappi Lahiri when he began his career in the 1970s. She sang several of his early compositions, helping him establish credibility in both Bengali and Hindi cinema. Their collaborations blended classical finesse with popular appeal, creating songs that remain part of India’s musical memory even today. Among their memorable collaborations was the highly popular song “Aao Tumhe Chand Pe Le Jayen” from Zakhmee, showcased Lahiri’s melodic style while benefiting from Lata Mangeshkar’s expressive rendition with a maternal warmth and innocence, almost like a lullaby (Lorie) sung to a child. Over the years, she rendered several of his compositions including ‘Sooni Sej Saja Doon’, ‘Thoda Resham Lagta Hai’, ‘Abhi Abhi Thi Dushmani, ‘Kaliyon Ka Chaman’ demonstrating his ability to create melodious, pleasant and classically influenced songs that suited Mangeshkar’s voice. Though Bappi became known for popularising disco music in India, his collaborations with Mangeshkar highlighted his range as a composer.
Mutual admiration across generations: The bond between the two legends was one of mutual respect. Mangeshkar had worked with Bappi’s parents and watched his rise from a Child Prodigy to a leading Music Director/Composer. Lahiri, in turn, repeatedly credited her encouragement and blessings for his success, often stating that whatever he achieved in Bollywood was possible because of his parents and ‘Lataji’. Even at the peak of his fame, he remained deeply grounded in that early connection.
Remembering February 2022: The month of February continues to carry a sense of poignancy for music lovers. The passing of Lata Mangeshkar on February 6, 2022, was followed just nine days later by Bappi Lahiri’s death on February 15. The proximity of their departures deepened the emotional impact on millions who had grown up with their music. For Bappi, who mourned Lataji as a mother figure in his final days, the loss was especially personal.
A legacy that continues to inspire: In 2026, their music continues to live on through digital platforms, tributes, and new generations discovering their inspirational work. The story of Bappi Lahiri and Lata Mangeshkar remains more than a tale of collaboration—it is a story of mentorship, devotion, and the timeless power of music.
As we remember the two legends this February, their shared legacy stands as a reminder that music, and the relationships that create it, can endure far beyond a lifetime.