Preeti Atulkar (BOMBAY TIMES; December 22, 2018)

Asha Bhosle needs no introduction. With a career spanning over 75 years, the legendary singer can still pose tough competition to the current generation of singers, with her inimitable exuberance on stage and zeal for singing. However, she doesn’t seem too impressed with the present music scenario...

Without mincing words, she voices her opinion on the way songs are being recorded in Bollywood these days. She says, “Back in the day, we used to put our heart and soul into the process. We would record in the presence of several musicians in the studio and ensure that the song finishes in one-go. We were that passionate about singing. Many of my songs have been recorded in one take. Today, a singer can sing a few lines and take a tea break. Now, everything is dependent on the machines; it’s like we artistes have become machines. Plus, people nowadays don’t listen to songs, they watch them. Audiences have changed and so has music.”

Everyone’s favourite Asha tai has not limited herself to any particular genre or language. Ask her if she sees a spark in any of the current singers and she says, “Honestly, I barely get an opportunity to listen to the latest music. I want to sincerely apologise for that. Firstly, I don’t have the time because I’m constantly working, and secondly, I have no radio at home. Even in the car, I mostly listen to old melodies.” She adds, “I like Shreya Ghoshal; she sang exceptionally well in Bajirao Mastani. Among the recent lot, no singer has impressed me or compelled me to sit back and take notice, yet. However, I like the way reality show contestants try out different styles of singing. It is heartening to see children singing didi’s (Lata Mangeshkar) songs. Also, whenever I hear a good song, I do ask around for singer’s name. But I believe good voice quality is a God’s gift and our family is truly blessed. Luck is another factor that plays a vital role. There may be brilliant singers out there, probably better than us, but they are struggling to get noticed.”

Biopics are the flavour of the season and the legendary singer reveals who she thinks would be the perfect fit to play her character in a film. She says, “I think Priyanka (Chopra Jonas) would be perfect to play me onscreen. Kangana Ranaut is also a very good actor. I feel she can be a great choice, too. Having said this, I don’t think a film based on my life will ever be made (laughs!).”