Pic/Instagram
Bharat Ratna and the 'Nightingale of India' Lata Mangeshkar had a profound impact on the nation of India and beyond. The legendary singer shared a deep bond with the late actor Dilip Kumar. Recently, on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, Saira Banu shared a beautiful photo of Dilip Kumar and singer Lata Mangeshkar and elaborated on their close sibling-like relationship.
Sharing the warm memory, she said, "The Kohinoor of Indian Cinema Dilip Sahib and the nightingale of the Music Industry of India Lata Mangeshkar held a connection beyond the dazzle of their stupendous stardom. They shared the bond of a brother and sister. In those golden quiet bygone days this legendary two-some found it comfortable to travel from their homes to their work spots in local trains which are also known as the lifeline of this marvellous city Mumbai."
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Banu shared how it was in the arterial locals of the city that Dilip Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar shared many of a conversation, traded experiences and even advice. Kumar guided the legendary late singer on her Urdu pronunciations with the clear-eyed insight of a native speaker, and the warmth of an elder brother.
"Sahib guided Lataji on how much the heart of Urdu lies in its flawless pronunciation and how something as simple as a Nukta adds a beautiful addition to words. Sahib emphasized that one must own the spoken languages with mastery. Lataji, an obedient sister in every sense, worked upon his advice and sought an Urdu tutor's assistance. Since then, the world bore witness to her flawless pronunciation in her songs."
Despite being busy with conflicting schedules and work commitments, Banu shared how singer and actor would find a way against all odds to reunite on Raksha Bandhan,
"Lataji would tie the sacred Rakhi on Sahib's hand. To my delight they both unfailingly followed this ritual year after year and I in return to this beautiful gesture sent her a brocade sari to her taste each time!"
Kumar also introduced Mangeshkar to the audiences of London - not just as a musician, but a sister whom he wished would receive a warm welcome
"Dilip Sahib bestowed upon her the honour of being introduced at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall in London where the echoes of the first Indian concert resounded. With utmost simplicity he called her on the stage , implicit charm. "Ye meri choti si behen bohat mukhtasar si, main inhein introduce karne aaya hoon". The audience roared with appreciation. Thousands of long-playing records were made and sold to the public of this same function. Many years later he introduced her again similarly at the London Palladium," Banu added in the caption.
"This bond of brother and sister remained until the very end, in sickness and in health. She often came to our home to visit Sahib and they ate lunch or dinner together. The very last time that she came here she lovingly fed him with her own hands and they made such a loving picture together. Such was the love they sharedâ¦monumental!"
The picture too captured this bond of kinship, affection and mutual respect with Dilip Kumar gently cupping Mangeshkar's face. Blood is not always thicker than water!
The legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar passed away last year on February 6th 2022. Mangeshkar won several awards and honours, including the Bharat Ratna (2001), India's highest civilian award, Padma Bhushan (1969), Padma Vibhushan (1999) and Dadasaheb Phalke Award (1989)
