Today marks the 95th birth anniversary of Lata Mangeshkar, fondly known as the Nightingale of India. Born on 28th September 1929 in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, she holds a Guinness World Record for recording over 30,000 songs in more than 14 Indian languages. The life of Bharat Ratna Lata Mangeshkar is filled with fascinating anecdotes that many may not be aware of. On this special day, let's read some intriguing and lesser-known facts about her remarkable journey.

1. Lata Mangeshkar's Childhood Name

Contrary to popular belief, Lata Mangeshkar's childhood name wasn't Hema; she was actually called Hridaya. Her sister, Asha Bhosle, revealed this in an interview, noting that the name Hema was given later by their brother, Hridaynath Mangeshkar. But how did Hridaya, after becoming Hema, evolve into Lata? It is said that she once played the role of Latika in a play written by their father, Deenanath Mangeshkar, titled 'Bhaav Bandhan.' This performance led to her being affectionately referred to as Lata.

2. Lata Didi Quit School for Sister Asha

Asha Bhosle once revealed that she referred to her sister, Lata Mangeshkar, not as Didi (elder sister) but as Aai (mother), reflecting the deep love she held for her. Lata Mangeshkar would take Asha Bhosle along wherever she went, even to school. On the first of her school she took Asha Bhosle with her to class. However, the teacher soon noticed their close bond and remarked that he couldn’t teach two students for the price of one, insisting that Lata leave Asha at home. In response, Lata made the heartfelt decision to drop out of school, taking it upon herself to educate her sister at home.

3. Lataji's First Song Was Removed from the Film

Lata Mangeshkar made her singing debut in Marathi films. In 1942, she recorded her first song, "Nachu Ya Gade, Khelusari Mani Haus Bhaari," for the Marathi film Kiti Hasaal. However, this song was ultimately removed during editing. Her song "Natali Chaitrachi Navalaai" was later released and is now regarded as her official debut Marathi song.

4. Lata Mangeshkar's Voice Was Rejected

When Lata Mangeshkar entered the Hindi film industry, powerful voices like Noor Jehan and Shamshad Begum dominated the scene. Initially, Lata's delicate voice was met with rejection, and she was told she could never be a singer. However, she persevered, and in 1949, she recorded her first Hindi song, "Aayega Aanewala," which was filmed on Madhubala in the movie Mahal. This song catapulted Lata Didi to overnight stardom, transforming her into a singing sensation.

5. Lata Mangeshkar's Fame

It is said that Madhubala would insist that Lata Mangeshkar sing for her in films, believing that Lata's voice was the perfect fit for her. Conversely, Lata herself felt that her voice suited Saira Banu better. Interestingly, Lata Mangeshkar's favourite singer was the renowned Egyptian artist Umm Kulthum, whose influence resonated deeply with her.

6. Health

In 1962, Lata Mangeshkar's health suddenly deteriorated, and it was later revealed that she had been slowly poisoned. For three days, her condition remained critical, but thanks to the doctors' efforts, she eventually recovered, although it took a long time. She was bedridden for three months, and to this day, the identity of her poisoner remains a mystery. The cook she had at the time disappeared without collecting his salary. Following this incident, the legendary musician Madan Mohan, a close friend, would visit her home, taste her food first, and only then allow her to eat.

7. When Lata Mangeshkar Moved Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru to Tears

In 1962, when numerous Indian soldiers were martyred in the conflict with China, an atmosphere of despair enveloped the nation. In response, a programme was organised to honour the martyrs. When Lata Didi sang "Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon" at the event, not only was the audience deeply affected, but the then Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, was also moved to tears.