I have seen obituaries in Western media referring to Lata as an “Indian singer” or “Bollywood singer.” Both of these are mischaracterizations. When a Westerner writes such hooey, it is understandable. But what’s the excuse for an Indian?
There is nobody in the modern times with the multigenerational reach and sway spanning 6 decades that Lata wielded, moving hearts of over 25% or more of humanity. Take some time to ponder on the magnitude of this feat. I came across a comment left on YouTube for one of her songs that encapsulates movingly what she meant to the Indian imagination. https://www.parrikar.org/misc/Lata-Tribute.jpg r
