RGV reminisces working with Asha Bhosle on 'Rangeela Re': Poise of queen, childlike curiosity
Mumbai, April 12
Ram Gopal Varma has offered his condolences over the demise of the legendary playback singer Asha Bhosle.
The filmmaker walked down the memory lane, and recollected working with her on the song 'Rangeela Re'.
On Sunday, he took to his X, formerly Twitter, and penned a long note, as he wrote, "Today, on the passing of my all time favourite singer, the legendary Asha Bhosle ji, I find myself reflecting deeply In Rangeela, it's Rahman who obviously composed the music, but it was Asha ji's voice that infused it with an immortal soul and raw, youthful fire. 'Rangeela Re' wasn't just a song, it was a thunderclap that shook Bollywood. @urmilamataondkar 's electrifying moves on the raw, pulsating streets of Mumbai fused seamlessly with Asha ji's playful sensuality, mischievous energy, and unimaginable vocal range, creating pure cinematic magic that redefined the film music's rebellious spirit".
He further mentioned, "I remember her walking into the studio with the poise of a queen, yet carrying the wide eyed child like curiosity of a newcomer hungry to experiment with a New Age music director like Rahman, One take, a small adjustment in phrasing or emotion, and the magic flowed like a torrential storm. Coincidentally, today marks the 24th anniversary of her track 'Khallas' from my film 'Company', shot on the fiery @IshaKonnects. That ultra seductive, high octane number, with its thumping rhythm along with Asha ji's commanding voice became a quintessential item song that still pulses with undefined energy".
"Asha ji wasn't just a singer , she was the heartbeat of an entire era, her voice flowing like a river through generations, bridging classical roots with modern beats across multiple languages and diverse emotions. From sensuality to soul stirring depth, she captured the complete full spectrum of human feeling like no one else ever Rest in power Asha ji, You might have moved on to another place , but your music will remain here forever", he added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
He's right. That song defined the 90s for many of us. The combination of Rahman's music, Asha ji's voice, and Urmila's dance was unbeatable. Her versatility was unmatched—from "Rangeela Re" to "Radha Kaise Na Jale". A true legend.
As an outsider who fell in love with Bollywood music, Asha Bhosle was a gateway. Her voice had such character and playfulness. Reading about her "childlike curiosity" even when she was a queen explains why she stayed relevant for so long. Respect.
While the tribute is nice, it's a bit rich coming from RGV. His recent films haven't shown much of that magic he's reminiscing about. But credit where it's due—he did help create some iconic moments with legends like her.
"Khallas" from Company! 🔥 That song is still played at parties. Isha Koppikar and Asha ji's voice created something so powerful. She wasn't just a playback singer; she was the mood, the attitude, the energy of the scene. We grew up with her voice in the background of our lives.
My parents' favourite, then mine, and now my kids hum "Lekin Mera Dil" without even knowing the legend behind it. That's her legacy. She bridged generations like no one else. Rest in power, Asha ji. Your music is indeed forever.
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