Legendary playback singer and musical icon Latha Mangeshkar passed away earlier today at the Breach Candy hospital in Mumbai where she was undergoing treatment for the past few days.  She was 92 and is survived by her siblings Meena, Asha, Usha, and Hridaynath and their families.

Hailed as the Nightingale of India, Latha started her singing career at the age of 13 and ruled the film music world for the better part of eight decades.   Among uncountable accolades she is the recipient of Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Dadasaheb Phalke Awards.

Latha Mangeshkar was closely associated with the Tamil film industry for several decades especially to the legendary Sivaji Ganesan whom she considered as a sibling.   It was in 1987 that Ilayaraja brought the golden voice to Tamil cinema with the memorable song Aaraaro Aaraaro in the Sivaji Productions film 'Anand' which happened to be Prabhu's 100th.

Latha also sang for Kamal Haasan's still popular Valaiosai in Sathya again in Ilayaraja's music.   Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a series of tweets paid his tributes I am anguished beyond words. The kind and caring Lata Didi has left us. She leaves a void in our nation that cannot be filled. The coming generations will remember her as a stalwart of Indian culture, whose melodious voice had an unparalleled ability to mesmerise people.

He added Lata Didi’s songs brought out a variety of emotions. She closely witnessed the transitions of the Indian film world for decades. Beyond films, she was always passionate about India’s growth. She always wanted to see a strong and developed India. I consider it my honour that I have always received immense affection from Lata Didi. My interactions with her will remain unforgettable. I grieve with my fellow Indians on the passing away of Lata Didi. Spoke to her family and expressed condolences. Om Shanti.

We join thousands of Indian film industry icons and millions of fans all around the world in condoling the passing away of the once in a lifetime musical legend Latha Mangeshkar.  RIP!