On Sunday the world awoke to the news of the passing of 92-year-old Bollywood singer, composer, producer and cultural icon, Lata Mangeshkar.
International media reported that Mangeshkar one of India’s beloved singers was admitted to a hospital in Mumbai in January after testing positive for COVID-19, however, succumbed to the virus at the Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai.
Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley in a statement offered condolences on behalf of the people of Trinidad and Tobago, and the Government saying, Ms. Mangeshkar’s enormous fan-base worldwide naturally includes a huge base of admirers in Trinidad and Tobago where many of her songs are still very well known.
Dr Rowley added that many may remember her visits to Trinidad and Tobago, and her performances at the Jean Pierre Sports Complex and Skinner Park in the 1980s.
Well known Chutney artiste, Samraj Jaimungal also known as Rikki Jai described Mangeshkar as the greatest of all time singers. Additionally, UNC MP, Dr. Roodal Moonilal and Minister of Foreign & Caricom Affairs, Dr. Amery Browne also offered condolences.
The funeral of Lata Mangeshkar took place on Sunday with full state honours. Her extraordinary career spanned more than half a century and she recorded thousands of songs in 36 languages.