lata mangeshkar

Indian art, culture, and science are getting global recognition today thanks to the foundation laid by these historic personalities who decided to do things differently.

From 1929 on till Independence, almost all distinguished leaders of the freedom struggle addressed the masses through Chicago Radio loudspeakers and public address equipment delivered by visionary entrepreneur Gianchand Motwane.

Known as the 'Nightingale of India', Bharat Ratna Lata Mangeshkar passed away in 6 February in Mumbai, at the age of 92. She sang over 27,000 songs in a seven-decade career.

From discovering Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar to mentoring Naushad Sa'ab, Manna Dey and Mohammed Rafi, the prodigiously talented Hindi music director Khemchand Prakash left behind an enduring legacy.

Biren Kumar Basak from West Bengal remembers the days when he earned Rs 2.5 to now establishing a Rs 50-crore venture, employing 5,000 artisans. His sarees have won several awards including Padma Shri.

Hindustani Classical vocalist Hirabai Barodekar of the Kirana Gharana was a recipient of the Padma Bhushan and paved the way for female artists at a time when they were not allowed to perform on stage. Her immense talent and popularity earned her several awards and disciples, including Padma Shri winner Prabha Atre, Vrinda Limaye, Bakul Pandit, Saraswati Rane and many more.

Coupled with Lata Mangeshkar’s mellifluous voice were the powerful, hard-hitting lyrics of Kavi Pradeep that famously moved India's First Prime Minister.

On her 90th birthday, we document some of the lesser-known stories about the legend’s life.

On his 76th birth anniversary, we remember the singer who gave ghazals a new identity with his soulful yet simple renditions.

TBI pays a tribute to 20 of the greatest musicians this country has produced. If you have not heard them yet, you must right now!